Basic Bricklaying Tips: Understanding the Fundamentals

While serious brickwork needs a skilled bricklayer, understanding the basics helps with small repairs and improves communication with specialists.

Mortar Basics

Mortar joints hold brickwork together. Standard mortar mix:

• 1 part cement to 4-5 parts soft sand
• Add plasticiser for workability
• Mix to "butter" consistency
• Use within 1-2 hours of mixing

Basic Bond Patterns

• Stretcher bond: Most common, all bricks lengthways
• English bond: Alternating rows of headers and stretchers
• Flemish bond: Headers and stretchers in same row

Laying Bricks

The basic process:

1. Spread mortar bed (10mm thick)
2. Butter the end of the brick
3. Position brick and tap into place
4. Check level in both directions
5. Remove excess mortar
6. Check course height with gauge rod

Keeping Level

Level courses are critical:

• Use string lines between corners
• Check with spirit level constantly
• Standard course height is 75mm (65mm brick + 10mm joint)
• Use a gauge rod to maintain consistency

Pointing

Finishing the mortar joints:

• Wait until mortar is "thumbprint hard"
• Various profiles: flush, weathered, bucket handle
• Consistent pointing looks professional
• Finish before mortar dries fully

Common Mistakes

• Mortar too wet (sloppy work, weak joints)
• Mortar too dry (poor bond)
• Working in rain or frost
• Rushing and losing level
• Inconsistent joint thickness

Weather Considerations

• Don't lay bricks below 5°C
• Protect new work from rain
• Keep materials dry
• Hot weather dries mortar too fast

Tools Needed

Basic bricklaying kit:

• Brick trowel
• Pointing trowel
• Spirit level
• String line and pins
• Brick bolster and hammer
• Gauge rod