Tuckpointer in Idaho Career Overview

As a tuckpointer, your role is integral to the maintenance and restoration of masonry structures, which include buildings, bridges, and walls. Your work focuses on ensuring the durability and aesthetic appeal of these structures by repairing and replacing deteriorated mortar in joints between bricks or stones.

Key aspects of your position include:

  • Restoration of Structural Integrity: You help to prolong the lifespan of masonry work, preventing moisture infiltration and damage that can compromise the overall stability of a building.

  • Aesthetic Enhancement: By matching the color and texture of mortar, you enhance the visual appeal of masonry surfaces, which is essential for historical preservation and property value.

  • Preventive Maintenance: Regular tuckpointing can avert more extensive and costly repairs down the line, making your role vital in the upkeep of both residential and commercial properties.

  • Collaboration with General Contractors: You often work alongside other construction or renovation professionals, contributing your expertise to larger projects that require specialized masonry skills.

  • Adaptation to Various Materials: You will work with different types of materials, including brick, stone, and concrete, tailoring your techniques to meet the demands of each style and application.

Your expertise as a tuckpointer positions you as a key player in the construction and maintenance industry, ensuring buildings not only stand the test of time but also retain their architectural beauty.

Tuckpointer Salary in Idaho

Annual Median: $60,320
Hourly Median: $29

Data sourced from Career One Stop, provided by the BLS Occupational Employment and Wage Statistics wage estimates.

Required Education To Become a Tuckpointer in Idaho

To become a Tuckpointer in Idaho, specific educational qualifications and training are recommended to equip you with the necessary skills for this trade:

  • High School Diploma or Equivalent: A basic requirement for most entry-level positions. Courses in math, blueprint reading, and general construction can be beneficial.

  • Post-secondary Education:

    • Masonry Technology: A degree or certificate in Masonry Technology can provide you with foundational knowledge in masonry practices and techniques. This program often includes extensive hands-on training and coursework covering materials, tools, and safety.

    • Construction Trades: Enrolling in a Construction Trades program offers an understanding of various aspects of construction, including masonry applications. These programs typically involve practical lessons alongside theoretical knowledge, preparing you for the multifaceted nature of construction work.

    • Building Property Maintenance: This program focuses on the maintenance and repair of buildings, which encompasses tuckpointing as a specialized skill. Training will often cover the principles of masonry, the properties of different building materials, and effective repair methods.

  • Apprenticeship Programs: Participating in an apprenticeship can provide valuable on-the-job training. Apprenticeships often combine technical instruction with hands-on experience under the guidance of seasoned professionals, allowing you to develop your skills in a practical setting while gaining exposure to the field's demands.

  • Certifications: While not mandatory, obtaining certifications related to masonry can enhance your qualifications and may be favored by employers. Look for programs that are recognized and respected within the industry.

Pursuing education and training in these areas will help lay a solid foundation for your career as a Tuckpointer in Idaho.

Best Schools to become a Tuckpointer in Idaho 2024

#1Bayamón Municipio

NUC University

Bayamon, PR

In-State Tuition:$6,448
Out-of-State Tuition:$8,160
Admission Rate:N/A
Graduation Rate:63%
Total Enrollment:26,720
#2Wake County

Wake Technical Community College

Raleigh, NC

In-State Tuition:$2,432
Out-of-State Tuition:$8,576
Admission Rate:N/A
Graduation Rate:31%
Total Enrollment:21,551
#3Norfolk City

Tidewater Tech-Trades

Norfolk, VA

In-State Tuition:$16,200
Out-of-State Tuition:$16,200
Admission Rate:N/A
Graduation Rate:58%
Total Enrollment:454
#4New Hanover County

Cape Fear Community College

Wilmington, NC

In-State Tuition:$2,432
Out-of-State Tuition:$8,576
Admission Rate:N/A
Graduation Rate:30%
Total Enrollment:14,170
#5St. Tammany Parish

Northshore Technical Community College

Lacombe, LA

In-State Tuition:$3,214
Out-of-State Tuition:$3,214
Admission Rate:N/A
Graduation Rate:29%
Total Enrollment:5,074
#6Muskogee County

Indian Capital Technology Center-Muskogee

Muskogee, OK

In-State Tuition:$N/A
Out-of-State Tuition:$N/A
Admission Rate:N/A
Graduation Rate:98%
Total Enrollment:1,541
Tuckpointer Job Description:
  • Lay and bind building materials, such as brick, structural tile, concrete block, cinder block, glass block, and terra-cotta block, with mortar and other substances, to construct or repair walls, partitions, arches, sewers, and other structures.

Tuckpointer Required Skills and Competencies in Idaho

  • Attention to Detail: You must have a keen eye for detail to ensure that your work is precise and meets quality standards. This includes recognizing imperfections in mortar joints and ensuring they are filled evenly.

  • Physical Stamina: The job often requires bending, kneeling, and lifting heavy materials for extended periods. You should maintain a good level of physical fitness to handle the demands of the job effectively.

  • Hand-Eye Coordination: Successful tuckpointers rely on strong hand-eye coordination to manipulate tools accurately and apply materials smoothly, especially when working on elevated surfaces or in confined spaces.

  • Technical Skills: Proficiency in using various tools, including trowels, chisels, and grinders, is essential. You should also have the ability to operate equipment such as scaffolding safely.

  • Problem-Solving Skills: Encountering unexpected issues with masonry or material integrity may arise on the job. Your ability to assess the situation and develop effective solutions is important for maintaining project timelines and safety.

  • Knowledge of Materials: Understanding different types of mortar, bricks, and stones is key to selecting the right materials for each job. This knowledge also extends to the application techniques best suited for different substrates.

  • Safety Awareness: You need to prioritize safety regulations and practices to protect yourself and others. Familiarity with occupational safety guidelines will enhance your effectiveness on the job.

  • Communication Skills: Clear communication with clients, coworkers, and supervisors is essential for discussing project requirements, timelines, and any issues that may arise during the course of your work.

  • Time Management: The ability to manage time effectively is important for meeting project deadlines. This includes planning your tasks efficiently and adapting your workflow as needed.

  • Customer Service Orientation: Building positive relationships with clients can enhance your reputation. Developing good interpersonal skills will help you understand their needs and deliver satisfactory results.

Job Duties for Tuckpointers

  • Apply and smooth mortar or other mixture over work surface.

  • Construct corners by fastening in plumb position a corner pole or building a corner pyramid of bricks, and filling in between the corners using a line from corner to corner to guide each course, or layer, of brick.

  • Measure distance from reference points and mark guidelines to lay out work, using plumb bobs and levels.

Technologies and Skills Used by Tuckpointers

Accounting software

  • Intuit QuickBooks

Project management software

  • Daystar iStructural.com
  • Estimating software

Spreadsheet software

  • Microsoft Excel

Basic Skills

  • Keeping track of how well people and/or groups are doing in order to make improvements
  • Thinking about the pros and cons of different ways to solve a problem

Problem Solving

  • Noticing a problem and figuring out the best way to solve it

Job Market and Opportunities for Tuckpointer in Idaho

In Idaho, the job market for tuckpointers is influenced by several factors, including ongoing construction projects, infrastructure maintenance, and the need for restoration services in both residential and commercial properties. Here are key insights into the current landscape:

  • Demand for Tuckpointers: As older buildings require maintenance to preserve their structural integrity, tuckpointers will continue to play an essential role. There is a growing need for skilled tradespeople who can provide high-quality repair and maintenance services.

  • Growth Potential: The construction industry is expected to see steady growth in Idaho, fueled by population increases and urban development. This growth translates to a rising demand for tuckpointing services, particularly in newly built structures and historic renovation projects.

  • Geographical Hotspots:

    • Boise: As the largest city in Idaho, Boise has a vibrant construction sector. The increasing number of homes and commercial buildings presents abundant opportunities for tuckpointers.
    • Coeur d'Alene: This area is experiencing a surge in development, especially in the luxury housing market. Tuckpointing services are often required for maintaining the aesthetic and structural quality of these high-end properties.
    • Idaho Falls: Growing industrial and residential developments here mean that tuckpointers can expect to find work in both new construction and renovations.
    • Twin Falls: With ongoing infrastructure projects and housing expansions, this city offers additional opportunities for tuckpointing professionals to establish a steady workflow.

  • Networking and Industry Connections: Engaging with local trade organizations and attending construction expos can provide you with valuable networking opportunities. These connections can often lead to job openings and collaborative projects in your area.

  • Seasonal Considerations: While demand may fluctuate with seasonal changes, tuckpointers often find consistent work during the more favorable months. Being adaptable and open to taking on varied roles within the trade can help you maintain a steady income year-round.

Understanding these dynamics will better equip you to navigate the job market as a tuckpointer in Idaho, positioning you to seize emerging opportunities and establish a successful career in this vital construction specialty.

Top Related Careers to Tuckpointer 2024

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Additional Resources To Help You Become a Tuckpointer in Idaho

  • U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS) - Brickmasons and Blockmasons
    Gain insights on industry statistics, job outlook, and occupational requirements.
    BLS - Brickmasons and Blockmasons

  • National Masonry Institute (NMI)
    Explore training opportunities, industry standards, and resources for masonry professionals.
    National Masonry Institute

  • Masonry Standards Joint Committee (MSJC)
    Access industry standards and guidelines, including specifications relevant to tuckpointing.
    Masonry Standards Joint Committee

  • Idaho Division of Building Safety
    Understand state-specific regulations, licensing information, and safety requirements for masonry work.
    Idaho Division of Building Safety

  • Mason Contractors Association of America (MCAA)
    Connect with a national network of masonry professionals for training resources and advocacy information.
    MCAA

  • Local Apprenticeship Programs
    Seek out apprenticeship opportunities through local trade schools and community colleges, which often partner with employers to provide hands-on training.

  • O*NET Online - Brickmasons and Blockmasons
    Review detailed descriptions of job duties, skills, and other data pertaining to tuckpointers.
    O*NET Online

  • National Federation of High Schools (NFHS) - Facility Resources
    Investigate value-added resources for masonry work in sports facility construction and maintenance.
    NFHS Facility Resources

  • Construction Industry Training Council of Washington (CITC)
    Although not specific to Idaho, this organization offers training programs that can benefit aspiring tuckpointers in the Pacific Northwest.
    CITC

  • Trade Journals and Magazines: Subscribe to industry-related publications such as

These resources can enhance your understanding and skills as a tuckpointer while helping you stay informed about industry trends and standards.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) About Tuckpointer in Idaho

  • What does a tuckpointer do?
    A tuckpointer specializes in the removal and replacement of mortar joints in brick or stone walls. This work often involves repairing, restoring, or maintaining the structure’s integrity and appearance.

  • What skills are necessary to become a tuckpointer?
    Key skills include manual dexterity, attention to detail, physical stamina, and the ability to work at heights. Additionally, knowledge of proper masonry techniques and materials is essential.

  • What education is required to become a tuckpointer?
    While a high school diploma is generally preferred, vocational training or an apprenticeship in masonry can provide practical experience and enhance your skills.

  • Are there any certifications needed to work as a tuckpointer?
    Certification is not typically required; however, having credentials from recognized masonry organizations can improve your job prospects and credibility in the field.

  • What is the job outlook for tuckpointers in Idaho?
    The demand for tuckpointing services generally depends on the overall construction industry and the need for maintenance of existing structures. As Idaho continues to grow, opportunities may remain steady.

  • What types of employers hire tuckpointers?
    Tuckpointers can find employment with masonry contractors, construction companies, restoration firms, or they operate as self-employed individuals.

  • What is the average salary for tuckpointers in Idaho?
    Salaries can vary based on experience, location, and the complexity of the projects. On average, tuckpointers in Idaho can expect to earn between $40,000 and $60,000 per year.

  • What are the physical demands of being a tuckpointer?
    The job requires considerable physical endurance, as you may be lifting heavy materials, working in various weather conditions, and performing tasks that involve climbing and standing for extended periods.

  • Is there a risk of injury in this job?
    Yes, working with heavy materials and at heights poses safety risks. Proper safety equipment and adherence to safety protocols are essential to minimize the risk of accidents.

  • Can I specialize in a certain area of tuckpointing?
    Yes, you can choose to specialize in historical restoration, new construction, or residential versus commercial projects, depending on your interests and the opportunities available.

  • How can I gain experience in tuckpointing?
    Gaining experience can involve working as an apprentice under a skilled tuckpointer, taking relevant courses, or engaging in hands-on projects to strengthen your skills.

  • What tools do tuckpointers typically use?
    Common tools include trowels, chisels, grinders, and mortar mixers. Safety gear such as gloves and goggles is also important in this line of work.