Build a Block or Brick Wall...

• block, brick, or stone
  
• mortar mix
  
• hawk (or similar mortar board)
  
• mortar trowel
  
• mason string
  
• line level
  
• level
  

What You Do

Since you could be using block, brick, or stone, we'll use the term brick from this point on in order to simplify the instructions.

Assuming you already have your layout designated on the ground, use a framing square to establish an exact corner (see illustration #1 before). Then, do a dry run of bricks, laying out your entire first row (see illustration #2 below).

There will be 3/8" of mortar between units when you actually install the brick, so keep that in mind. Rather than "eyeball" the gap, it's a good idea to use a piece of wood that's 3/8" thick to achieve uniform spacing as you position the bricks.

Doing a dry run will allow you to establish the exact placement of brick. Ideally, a wall should be configured so that nothing less than a half brick would be used. Anything less and you should re-configure your dimensions accordingly.

Once you're satisfied with the overall layout, install a secure post or vertical rod, at the corner of the wall (see illustration #2 below). This will hold the guide string that allows you to install the brick straight and level.

According to what size material you're using, place marks on the corner post for each row you'll be installing. For example, each row of standard brick would be 2-3/8" (2" brick plus 3/8" mortar. If you plan to install 4 rows, you would have 4 marks on the post, each 2-3/8" apart.

After you install the corner post and mark the rows, install corresponding posts at the end of each wall. Secure string at the first (bottom) mark on the corner post and run it to one of the end posts.

Using a line level to determine the proper height, place a corresponding mark on the end post. Measuring upward, place all additional marks on the post. Repeat the process for the second end post.

Once all the posts are in and the first row string is in place, you can begin brick installation...

Put down a bed of mortar approximately 1" thick (see illustration #3 below). If the run is short, you can place the entire bed. If the run is long, just put down enough mortar to place a few bricks at a time.

Since mortar needs to be placed between the bricks, you'll want to "butter" the end of a brick before setting it against another. What this means is simply applying a small amount of mortar to one end of the brick prior to setting it in place.

Press each brick firmly down into the mortar (see illustration #4 below), using the guide string to keep everything straight and level as you go. If necessary, tap each brick with the butt end (handle) of your trowel to properly seat, position, and level them.

TIP: It's a good idea to use a regular carpenter's level to frequently check and re-check the wall to make certain it stays plumb as you proceed.

Trowel any excess mortar away from the brick. If it's clean, you can put it back on your hawk. If not, discard it.

Once a row is complete, reposition the string to the next mark up on each of the guide posts. Continue to install each row (staggering the bricks) until the wall is at the designated height.