Helpers--Brickmasons, Blockmasons, Stonemasons, and Tile and Marble Setters

Today, most helper tasks in brick/stone work are still done by people using power tools. For example, helpers cut tiles and stones with powered saws and mix plaster or grout by hand ^[1]. A few robotics projects exist – one German scaffold-climbing robot can carry and hand off scaffold pieces to workers, cutting labor needs on that task ^[2].

But even that robot needs humans to aim it and guide its work with machine-learning algorithms ^[2]. In other cases AI is mostly in planning ways: companies like Buildots use AI cameras to check how a job is progressing, but they aren’t actually mixing mortar or setting tiles ^[3]. In short, the helpers’ core work (cutting materials, laying grout, caulking, etc.) largely lacks true AI automation.

Tools like mixers and tile saws assist a worker, but they don’t “think” for themselves. So far, robots mostly handle moving materials on site (like scaffold pieces) or tracking work, while hands-on tasks remain manual ^{[1] [2]}.

Experts say this slow change has simple reasons. Construction sites are messy and each project is unique, so it’s hard to design a one-size-fits-all robot. Also, high costs and safety rules make companies careful.

For now, many contractors find it cheaper to keep workers on site, since human masons are flexible and experienced. However, there are clear benefits pushing AI use. With a lot of older workers retiring, companies look for ways to speed work or fill gaps ^[3].

Robots like Kewazo’s can deliver heavy parts and actually reduce injuries from lifting ^[2]. And investors are excited because studies suggest AI may cut construction delays and costs roughly in half ^[3]. In short, the industry is moving cautiously: new technology must prove itself safe and worth the cost, but slowly helpers may get more AI tools.

For now, though, skilled workers are still needed for cutting, mixing, scaffolding, and caulking – human judgment remains hard to replace ^{[1] [3]}.