Do you want to become a Mastic Asphalter? Here is some information to help point you in the right direction:
Job Description - 
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Mastic asphalters lay asphalt as a protection for a wide range of construction applications where waterproofing is vital. They usually work with contractors. Construction applications include:
• roofing and tanking
• damp-proof membranes in flooring
• paving, flat roofs and decks
• dams, riverbank protection, sea defence and the prevention of erosion.
Asphalters lay membranes before pouring hot asphalt to the correct thickness. They use a variety of hand tools for smoothing, together with mobile boilers, mixers, buckets, LPG cylinders and application units for hot sealants. Scaffolding equipment or ladders are often needed. They usually start as ‘mixermen' or ‘potmen' to gain experience, eventually becoming qualified spreaders.
They normally work 38 hours a week, from Monday to Friday, but overtime may be required on some projects. The work is usually outdoors and they often have to work in areas that are difficult to access. It is unsuitable for people who suffer from claustrophobia, vertigo or respiratory problems.
Salaries range from around £10,000 to £30,000 a year, or more. Mastic asphalters should:
• be prepared to work on a project from beginning to end
• be good with their hands, using measuring, cutting, shaping and fitting tools
• have good health and stamina
• be able to work in confined areas, dusty conditions or at heights
• work well with colleagues and enjoy working as part of a team
• be interested in practical work.
Most of the work is with specialist firms of building contractors, roofers and pavers. A number of mastic asphalters are employed by building or civil engineering companies, especially those engaged in road building.
Self-employment is common and asphalters may also work on a labour-only basis for a contractor, with all tools and materials supplied.
There are no set entry requirements, although GCSEs/S grades in English, maths and design and technology may be helpful. Entrants can join contracting companies directly from school as trainee operators or as apprentices. Adult entry is possible.
Apprentices are sponsored by the Construction Industry Training Board (CITB) and the Mastic Asphalt Council. They work towards NVQ/SVQ Levels 2 and 3 in Mastic Asphalt.
There are prospects for promotion to supervisory or managerial roles. It may be necessary to change employers in order to progress.
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