Here are some tips for bricklaying to get you started with your new project even if you are a beginner:
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Prepare your work area: Before you begin laying bricks, make sure your work area is clear of debris and other materials. You'll need a flat and stable surface to work on.
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Use the right tools:
Bricklaying is a skilled trade that requires the use of specific tools to ensure proper construction and safety. Here are some of the tools needed for bricklaying:
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Trowel: A trowel is a flat, pointed tool used for spreading and shaping mortar.
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Brick hammer: A brick hammer has a chisel-like end for splitting bricks and a blunt end for tapping them into place.
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Brick jointer: A brick jointer is used to create a concave indentation in the mortar between bricks.
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Spirit level: A spirit level is used to ensure that the wall is level and plumb.
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Mason's line: A mason's line is a string used to keep the bricks straight and level during construction.
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Chalk line: A chalk line is used to mark straight lines on the wall for laying the bricks.
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Brick tongs: Brick tongs are used for carrying and placing bricks into position.
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Brick saw: A brick saw is used to cut bricks to size when necessary.
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Mortarboard: A mortarboard is a flat board used for holding and mixing mortar.
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Wheelbarrow: A wheelbarrow is used for transporting bricks and mortar on the job site.
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Mix mortar correctly: Follow the manufacturer's instructions for mixing mortar. Make sure it has the right consistency - not too dry and not too wet.
The mortar mix for laying bricks typically consists of cement, sand, and water. The proportions of these ingredients can vary depending on the specific application and the desired strength of the mortar.
A common mix ratio for mortar is 1:4, which means one part cement to four parts sand by volume. Some builders may also add a small amount of lime to the mix to increase the workability of the mortar and improve its bonding properties.
It's important to follow the manufacturer's instructions when mixing mortar to ensure that the mix is consistent and has the appropriate strength for the job. Mixing too much water or not enough sand, for example, can weaken the mortar and compromise the structural integrity of the brick wall.
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Lay bricks properly: Follow these steps carefully to ensure that your brickwork is level, plumb, and secure. It's important to wear appropriate protective gear, including gloves and eye protection, when working with bricks and mortar. Laying bricks is a skilled trade that requires careful planning and attention to detail. Here are some steps to follow when laying bricks:
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Prepare the surface: Ensure that the surface is clean, level, and free of debris. Apply a layer of mortar to the surface where the first row of bricks will be laid.
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Lay the first course of bricks: Place the first brick at one end of the wall, tapping it into place with the trowel handle. Use the spirit level to ensure that it is level and plumb. Continue laying the bricks, using the mason's line to ensure that they are straight and level.
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Spread mortar: Spread mortar onto the surface of the previous layer of bricks, using the trowel.
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Lay the second course of bricks: Place the second row of bricks on top of the first, using the mason's line to keep them straight and level. Use the brick jointer to create a concave indentation in the mortar between the bricks.
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Repeat: Continue laying rows of bricks in this way, ensuring that each row is level and plumb.
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Cut bricks: Use a brick saw to cut bricks to size when necessary.
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Fill gaps: Fill gaps between the bricks with mortar using the trowel.
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Clean: Clean any excess mortar from the bricks using a brush.
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Allow to dry: Allow the mortar to dry before continuing to lay more bricks.
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Use a jointer: After laying several bricks, use a jointer to smooth out the mortar between the bricks. This will help make the wall stronger and more stable. A brick jointer is a tool used in masonry work to shape and smooth the mortar joints between bricks or other types of masonry units. It typically consists of a metal bar with a curved or V-shaped end that is used to push mortar into the joint and create a concave shape. The jointer can also be used to remove excess mortar and ensure that the joints are even and uniform in size. The size and shape of the jointer can vary depending on the specific application and the preferences of the mason.
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Allow time to dry: Give the mortar time to dry before adding more rows of bricks. This will help prevent the bricks from shifting or falling out of place. In terms of total drying time for a bricklaying project the drying time of mortar can vary depending on several factors, such as the type of mortar, the ambient temperature and humidity, and the thickness of the mortar layer. Generally, most mortars will start to set within 30 minutes to a few hours after application and will reach their full strength within 24 to 48 hours. However, it's important to note that while the mortar may be dry to the touch within this time frame, it may take several days or even weeks for it to fully cure and reach its maximum strength. It's important to follow the manufacturer's instructions for the specific type of mortar being used and to allow ample time for it to dry and cure before subjecting it to any stress or load.
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Clean as you go: Keep your work area clean as you go. This will help prevent accidents and make the job easier.
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Practice makes perfect: Bricklaying takes practice, so don't get discouraged if your first few attempts aren't perfect. With time and practice, you'll get better at it.
Frequently Asked Questions About Bricklaying for Beginners
1. What’s the best mortar mix for beginners?
For most small bricklaying jobs, a good general-purpose mix is:
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4 parts soft sand
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1 part cement
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Optional: a dash of plasticiser (to improve workability)
Mix until the consistency is like peanut butter—not too wet, not too dry. It should hold its shape on a trowel but still spread easily.
2. How do I lay the first course of bricks straight and level?
Start by:
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Marking out your line with string stretched tightly between two solid points.
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Laying a mortar bed on your foundation or base.
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Using a spirit level on every brick and across the course.
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Tapping bricks gently into place with the handle of your trowel.
Getting the first course right is crucial—every row above will follow this line.
3. How thick should the mortar joints be?
Aim for:
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10 mm (1 cm) mortar joints between bricks—both horizontal (bed) and vertical (perp) joints.
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Use a brick jointer or the edge of your trowel to smooth and compact them.
Consistent joints help the wall stay strong and look neat.
4. Should I soak bricks before laying them?
Only if you’re using very dry or highly absorbent bricks (like reclaimed or clay bricks on hot days). Lightly dampening them prevents them from sucking too much moisture from the mortar.
Don’t soak them completely—just a quick spray or dip.
5. What’s the purpose of a string line when bricklaying?
A string line:
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Ensures your bricks are level and in a straight line.
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Acts as a visual guide for height and alignment.
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Should be pulled tight and fixed securely at both ends (use line blocks or profiles).
Check it regularly, especially after laying each course.
6. How do I stagger bricks properly?
Use a half-brick overlap—known as stretcher bond, the most common pattern for beginners.
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This means each brick in a course is centred over the joint between two bricks below.
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It adds strength and gives a traditional look.
Use a brick gauge or tape measure to keep overlaps consistent.
7. How long should mortar be workable for?
Freshly mixed mortar stays workable for around 1.5 to 2 hours, depending on temperature and humidity.
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Only mix what you can use in that time.
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Never add extra water to re-wet mortar that’s already starting to set—it weakens it.
8. How do I cut bricks accurately?
For beginners, the easiest way is:
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Score the brick all the way around with a bolster chisel and hammer.
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Tap firmly to split it on the scored line.
You can also use a brick saw or angle grinder with a diamond blade for precision, but always wear PPE.
9. How can I keep the wall level and plumb as I build up?
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Use a spirit level vertically (plumb) and horizontally (level) on each brick and course.
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Check every few bricks—don’t wait until the top!
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Use a plumb line or profile guides at corners to help keep edges straight.
Correct small errors as you go—if it’s out by a little now, it’ll be out by a lot later.
10. Can I bricklay in cold or wet weather?
Avoid laying bricks if:
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The temperature is below 5°C (mortar won’t set properly)
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It’s raining heavily (it washes out the mortar)
If it’s slightly cold or damp:
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Use frost-proof additives
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Cover the wall with tarpaulin or plastic sheeting overnight
Bricklaying is best done in dry, mild conditions for best results.
🧱 Final Tip:
Practice makes perfect. Start with a small project like a low wall or planter box, and focus on consistency, clean joints, and level courses. Take your time and enjoy learning a timeless trade!
