The Do's and Don'ts of Building a Brick Wall: Guide by Bricklayer Glasgow

Building a brick wall may seem like a straightforward task, but it requires precision, expertise, and the right technique. From laying a solid foundation to achieving the perfect mortar consistency, every step is crucial. At Bricklayer Glasgow, we pride ourselves on our expertise in brickwork, and we’re here to guide you through the process.

Key Takeaways:

• A strong foundation is essential for a sturdy brick wall.
• Proper mortar consistency is crucial for the wall’s longevity.
• Always consider the aesthetic and functional aspects of the wall.
• Regular maintenance ensures the wall remains in top condition.

Materials Needed for Building a Brick Wall

Before diving into the construction process, it’s essential to gather all necessary materials. Here’s a list to get you started:

• Trowel
• Hammer
• Bolster
• Spirit Level
• Shovel
• Wheelbarrow
• Bricks
• String and clamps (or nails)
• Dry bristle brush

Step-by-Step Guide to Building a Brick Wall

1. Calculate How Many Bricks You Need

The first step is determining the number of bricks required. Bricks come in various shapes and sizes, with the standard UK brick measuring 215mm x 102.5mm x 65mm. Remember to account for the mortar, typically 10mm thick. As a general rule:

• 60 bricks per square metre for a single skin wall.
• 120 bricks per square metre for a solid wall.

Tip: Always order an extra 10% to account for wastage. For a more detailed guide, refer to How Many Bricks Do I Need?.

2. Order Your Bricks

Matching your bricks to existing brickwork can elevate the aesthetics of your construction. At Bricklayer Glasgow, we offer a brick matching service to ensure consistency. Alternatively, if you’re not concerned about matching, simply request our free brick selection service. We guarantee the best bricks at competitive prices.

3. Prepare Your Foundation

The foundation is the backbone of your brick wall. For a wall up to one metre in height, a half-metre deep trench is recommended. Ensure the trench measurements are accurate, as a robust foundation is vital. Once dug, fill the foundation with concrete and allow it to dry for 2-3 days.

4. Mark Your Guideposts

After setting the foundation, establish gauging rods to ensure consistent brickwork levels. Use timber cut to your wall’s desired height and mark 65mm lines for standard-sized bricks. These lines indicate where each brick row should be. Ensure these rods are freestanding at both ends of your wall.

5. Mix Your Mortar

Prepare your mortar on a damp board, adhering to manufacturer instructions. The mortar’s consistency is vital; it should be firm yet easily spreadable. Remember to soak the bricks in water before laying them. This ensures a strong bond with the mortar.

6. Lay Your First Brick

With the foundation set, begin laying your bricks. Place mortar on the foundation, create a ‘v’ shape with your trowel, and firmly set the brick in place. Ensure each brick is level and maintains a consistent 10mm mortar gap.

7. Stagger Your Bricks for Strength

For added strength, bricks should be staggered. This might require cutting a brick in half. Use a hammer or a bolster for a clean cut. This staggered approach ensures better weight distribution and overall wall stability.

8. Continue Building Your Wall

Repeat the process for each brick row, ensuring each is level and consistent. Regularly check your work against the guideposts and adjust as necessary.

9. Add Finishing Touches

Once your wall reaches the desired height, consider adding aesthetic touches. There are various joining patterns, such as the soldier course, where bricks are vertically aligned. After laying all bricks, remove any excess mortar and protect the wall from the elements for the first night.

Tables with Relevant Facts

This guide provides a comprehensive overview of building a brick wall. With the right materials, technique, and guidance from experts like Bricklayer Glasgow, you can construct a durable and aesthetically pleasing brick wall. Stay tuned for Part 2, where we’ll delve into the don’ts of brick wall construction and address frequently asked questions.

The Don’ts of Building a Brick Wall: Expert Insights from Bricklayer Glasgow

While building a brick wall might seem like a straightforward task, there are several pitfalls that can compromise the integrity and aesthetics of the structure. At Bricklayer Glasgow, we’ve seen it all, and we’re here to share the common mistakes and how to avoid them.

1. Avoiding Common Mistakes

Overlooking Necessary Permissions

Before starting any construction project, it’s essential to check with local authorities for any required permissions. Building without the necessary permits can lead to legal complications and potential fines.

Building Tall Walls Without Expertise

While a short garden wall might be within the capabilities of a DIY enthusiast, taller walls, especially those over a metre in height, require professional expertise. The risks associated with tall walls include instability and potential collapse.

2. Ensuring Level Construction

The foundation and each subsequent layer of bricks must be level. A lopsided wall is not only unattractive but also poses structural risks. Using a spirit level during construction ensures that the wall remains straight and true.

3. Avoiding Excessive Pressure

Understanding the pressure exerted by the soil behind a wall, especially a retaining wall, is crucial. Incorrect calculations can lead to the wall buckling under pressure. It’s essential to consider factors like soil type, moisture content, and wall height.

4. Ensuring Proper Backfill

Backfilling is the process of refilling the excavated area behind the wall. The choice of backfill material is crucial:

• Sand or Pea Gravel: These materials allow for proper drainage and reduce pressure on the wall.
• Compaction: The backfill should be compacted in layers to prevent settling over time.

5. Avoiding Over-reliance on Single Walls

For terraced landscapes or areas with significant height differences, consider constructing multiple tiered walls instead of a single tall wall. This approach offers several benefits:

• Improved Stability: Multiple shorter walls distribute pressure more effectively.
• Aesthetic Appeal: Tiered walls can be integrated into the landscape design, creating attractive terraces or planters.

Tables with Relevant Facts

In the next section, we’ll delve into the frequently asked questions related to brick wall construction. Stay tuned for expert insights and answers from Bricklayer Glasgow.