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Plastering is physically demanding. Plastering is learned on the job, either through a formal apprenticeship program or by working as a helper. Job opportunities are expected to be good, particularly in the South and Southwest of the United States.
Other construction workers who use a trowel as their primary tool include brickmasons, blockmasons, and stonemasons; cement masons, concrete finishers, segmental pavers, and terrazzo workers; and drywall installers, ceiling tile installers, and tapers.
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Most plastering jobs are indoors; however, plasterers and stucco masons work outside when applying stucco or exterior wall insulation and decorative finish systems. Sometimes, plasterers work on scaffolds high above the ground.
Plastering is physically demanding, requiring considerable standing, bending, lifting, and reaching overhead. The work can be dusty and dirty, soiling shoes and clothing, and can irritate the skin and eyes.
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Plasterers and stucco masons held about 59,000 jobs in 2002. Most plasterers and stucco masons work on new construction sites, particularly where special architectural and lighting effects are required. Some repair and renovate older buildings. Many plasterers and stucco masons are employed in Florida, California, and the Southwest, where exterior stucco with decorative finishes is very popular.
Most plasterers and stucco masons work for independent contractors. About 1out of every 10 plasterers and stucco masons is self-employed.
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In 2002, median hourly earnings of plasterers and stucco masons were $15.91. The middle 50 percent earned between $12.33 and $20.67. The lowest 10 percent earned less than $9.94, and the top 10 percent earned more than $26.81.
The median hourly earnings in the largest industries employing plasterers and stucco masons in 2002 were $15.99 in building finishing contractors, and $14.94 in foundation, structure, and building exterior contractors.
Apprentice wage rates start at about half the rate paid to experienced plasterers and stucco masons. Annual earnings for plasterers and stucco masons and apprentices can be less than the hourly rate would indicate, because poor weather and periodic declines in construction activity can limit work hours.
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