How to build an English bond

You're ready to build a wall, here's one technique you can use ...

Level of difficulty

Level 2: Intermediate

What you need

  • String line
  • Bricks
  • Bricklaying trowel
  • Hammer
  • Mortar
  • Spirit level

The steps to follow

  1. First lay a foundation strip before building the wall.
  2. Fasten string lines on pegs and stretch the string line across the foundation strip.
  3. Dry-lay the brick to give you an idea of what the brick wall will look like.
  4. Start by laying the first corner brick. Either lay the shorter end of the brick (header) or length of the brick (stretcher) facing you.
  5. Next, place the queen closer (a brick cut lengthwise) right next to the corner brick.
  6. Leave a 1cm (3/8in) gap between the two bricks.
  7. Finish dry-laying the first course of bricks.
  8. When you're sure of this first course, relay the bricks.
  9. This time, fill in the gaps between the bricks with 1cm (3/8 in) mortar joints.
  10. Check if the course is level with a spirit level.
  11. For the second course of brickwork, lay the brickwork at the header end if your first course was a stretcher course, and vice versa.
  12. To complete the wall, alternate the headers and stretcher courses.
     
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