Although some people think laying concrete bricks is a simple job, it can actually become a huge task for beginners; it takes time and some good quality tools. If this is your first time trying to do this, plan with a friend. It is essential to choose both the materials and the right location for the project.
Steps
Part 1 of 4: Gather the Materials
Step 1. Find out about the available bricks
There are several varieties of concrete blocks that are used for modern construction; generally, standard 20 cm ones are used to create the foundation base; Among the other types you can consider are single and double corner ones, which allow you to create perfect edges or rounded corners. Then there are the bearing ones to create the jambs of the openings.
- There are other specialty bricks available for almost any application you can think of.
- The grooved ones are used to create a frame in which to insert windows with opening. Instead, you need to arrange lintel bricks on top of a wall if you need to create space for roof supports or other supporting structures.
- You can buy special blocks or customize the ones available to add your own unique touch to the project.
Step 2. Buy the foundation
They consist of a concrete base that is used precisely to support the structure. You can buy the dry material, which must be mixed with water to be activated, or the ready-made one.
Step 3. Gather basic tools
For this project you need several tools that you can get at the nearest hardware store. Make sure you have plenty of time to get the job done and consider the price difference compared to hiring a construction company. If you have decided to continue alone, you must have:
- Trowel;
- Garden hose;
- 1 cm and 1, 5 cm plywood boards;
- Work gloves;
- Level;
- Wheelbarrow;
- 30 m of rope;
- Malta;
- Mason's chisel;
- Boards with 5x10 cm section for formwork;
- Rods;
- Concrete boards.
Step 4. Ask a specialist
If you are unsure about the specifics of the material you need for your project, consult an experienced construction supply store clerk. Typically, employees have all the necessary knowledge to help you; it never hurts to ask questions if you're unsure.
Part 2 of 4: Prepare the Foundation
Step 1. Read up on this section of the construction
Each brick of the wall must be laid on a secure base made of concrete. The foundations should be laid twice as deep as the wall thickness and twice as wide as the wall. If you are using standard 20cm bricks, the foundation should be at least 40cm wide. The base is made using formwork created with 10x5 cm boards and wooden stakes.
Step 2. Prepare the boards with a 10x5 cm section
Mark off a space twice the width of the brick by using two of these pieces of wood. Secure them using stakes placed along the outer side of the wall; the 10x5 cm board should be positioned so that it rests well against the posts.
Step 3. Be aware of your surroundings
Check that the foundation does not block the natural flow of water. Observe the ground for a few days before carrying out the work, especially after the rains; you must not block or alter the natural flow of water, to prevent it from flooding the neighbor's property.
Step 4. Cast the concrete base
This way, you are sure that the wall has a solid foundation. Fill the formwork to the brim and level the freshly poured concrete by sliding a 10x5 cm pole over the surface; this step allows you to spread the material evenly.
Step 5. Wait for the foundation to dry
Before starting construction, you need to allow the concrete plenty of time to dry. If you want it to be able to hold a lot of weight, wait up to three days.
Part 3 of 4: Preparing to Lay the Concrete Bricks
Step 1. Decide where to place the corners and mark their position
Before starting to lay the bricks, visualize all the corners of the structure, identifying their position with wooden stakes. Use a string or string to precisely define the edges; tie the string or string to the stake of your choice to mark the position of the corner.
The twine should define a circumference around the work area
Step 2. Determine the number of bricks
Arrange them dry along the foundation, to understand how many you need for the first layer. For the moment, don't fix them with mortar, use 1.5 cm shims to separate them and take into account the joints.
- In the corners, arrange the corner bricks, if available.
- After this test, remove the bricks and prepare for the actual laying.
Step 3. Prepare the mortar
Take a bag of dry cement and take a dose; read the specific product instructions described on the package. Get a container in which to mix the cement with water, choose a 20-liter bucket that you can ruin without problems.
Never prepare more mortar than you can use
Part 4 of 4: Laying the Concrete Bricks
Step 1. Smear the concrete along one corner
Use the trowel to arrange a few handfuls of concrete on the angled base of the foundation. Make a layer of mortar 2.5 cm deep and 20 cm wide on the designated area. Continue to spread it over an area equivalent to three or four bricks in a row.
Step 2. Lay down the corner brick
It is important that it is installed first; remember to use a specific corner block if you have one. Starting from the corner, you are sure to distribute all the other bricks correctly.
Step 3. Apply the grout on the side
Use the trowel to spread concrete on each side of the brick, making a layer at least 2.5cm thick. Once the mortar has been applied, place the block in the appropriate position, trying to align the edge with the string you prepared earlier.
- Do not put concrete on the outside edge of the corner.
- Try not to leave any gaps when you lay it out, otherwise you will weaken the bond between the bricks.
Step 4. Continue placing the blocks
Start at a corner or edge of the wall to be able to work in one direction.
Spread the mortar on one end of the brick before placing the adjacent one
Step 5. Check the alignment
Before stacking other elements on the foundation, check if the whole structure is aligned. Use a mason's level by placing it against the first row of bricks; inspect both the outer and central sections of the blocks.
- Tap them to change their position while the grout is still fresh.
- Don't try to move a brick once the concrete has set.
- Measure the length and height of the wall after every two or three layers.
Step 6. Spread the mortar on top
Make a layer 2.5 cm thick and as wide as a brick; you can spread enough concrete to cover the length of three bricks in the direction you are laying them.
Step 7. Overlap the blocks
Arrange one brick on top of the other, so that its end is aligned with the midpoint of the one below; with this technique, you can notice that you are making the classic offset pattern of masonry walls. The upper block must rest on two bricks below.
Step 8. Add a reinforcement
If you've built high walls, consider adding structural reinforcement. You can use them even when the ground does not offer stability against pressure. Place 60mm rods in the openings so that the ends overlap by 5 or 7cm.
