An ancient and noble profession, bricklayers are skilled journeyworkers who construct walls, partitions, steps, free standing piers, arches and other structures made of brick, concrete block or masonry materials. They study the blueprints or building plans to check specifications and determine the most accurate layouts. Bricklayers have a thorough knowledge of the different types of bricks that are available, the correct mortar mixtures and how to adapt building methods to different weather conditions so as to protect structures from humidity or water ingress.