From MPH: Sponsors of Super Trowel 2024
Part art and part science, building a brick wall is more than just stacking bricks. As well as high-quality masonry tools, it takes skills and know-how to build a brick wall that will stand the test of time. Building a brick wall requires a combination of technical capability and experience, including:
- Bricklaying techniques
- Measurement and layout skills
- Tool proficiency
- Attention to detail and precision
- Physical strength and dexterity
- Aesthetic sense
- Knowledge of building codes and regulations
- Safety awareness
As proud sponsors of Super Trowel 2024 - the UK’s biggest masonry exhibition and bricklaying competition - we’re here to share our wall-building expertise with you.
What is Super Trowel 2024?
Super Trowel is the UK’s biggest masonry show, celebrating the precision and skill of bricklaying. Attendees can explore the industry’s latest trends, tools, equipment and techniques and witness the main event: an exciting high-speed bricklaying competition.
Thirty contestants are divided over two regional heats - one in the North, the other in the South. These thirty contestants are competing for the accolade of being crowned the UK’s Fastest Bricklayer.
At Super Trowel 2023, Charlie Collison emerged as a standout performer. Collison laid an impressive 607 bricks in 60 minutes, earning him the title of the UK's Fastest Bricklayer as well as a cool £4.5k prize!
Sponsoring Super Trowel 2024 was an easy decision for us. We are proud to have earned a reputation for supplying our clients with a range of high-quality machinery and tools to meet the needs of modern construction. Our commitment to excellence aligns perfectly with the spirit of Super Trowel!
For reliable construction equipment hire in London and the surrounding counties, contact MPH today.
Tools required for building a brick wall
To build a brick wall, you will require the following tools:
- spirit level
- plumb bob
- cement mixer
- wheelbarrow
- trowel and pointing trowel
- mortar boards
- buckets
- measuring tape
- shovel
- Mason’s line and line pins
- brick hammer
- brick saw
- stakes
- nails
- clamps
- pointing tools
- relevant PPE for the site
- scaffolding and/or ladders
- Bumpa hoist or Hoddi hoist for lifting bricks onto scaffolding
- plastic or plywood to protect the area beneath the wall, protecting it from mortar drop down
How To Build A Brick Wall
Whether you're a seasoned pro or a DIY enthusiast, mastering the art of bricklaying involves precision, skill and dexterity.
Follow our step-by-step guide to building a brick wall:
1. Prepare foundations
For new walls, you will need to prepare a suitable foundation to build on. Dig and pour the foundation if necessary, such as for a house, shed or garage. If you’re building a wall inside a house, garage or other existing structure, it will already have a foundation.
2. Calculate material
Measure the wall dimensions to calculate the number of bricks and the amount of mortar required.
3. Set up guide posts
Install posts and string lines to ensure the wall is straight and level as it is being built.
4. Mix the mortar
Mix your mortar to the correct consistency.
5. Prepare bricks
Soak the bricks and let them drip dry. This is a traditional step to ensure the mortar has a tighter bond with the brick. However, it may not be necessary with modern bricks.
6. Lay the first course of bricks
Use the trowel to distribute mortar evenly under each brick and between the joints.
7. Check level and plumb
Use the spirit level to ensure that the wall is level. Check for both horizontal and vertical alignment (plumb).
8. Lay subsequent courses
For the next course of bricks, you might need to cut a brick in half to create a staggered wall for extra strength and support. You should regularly check with the spirit level and adjust as necessary to ensure straight alignment.
9. Finish the wall
When the wall is nearing the finished height, complete the top course neatly.
10. Allow the mortar to cure
How long does mortar take to dry? Drying time can vary based on the type of mortar, weather conditions and the specific application. Cement-based mortar typically begins to set within 24-48 hours but reaches full strength in about 28 days.
11. Finishing touches
For a neat and professional finish, use jointing tools to smooth and shape the mortar joints.
By following our simple guide, you should be able to build a sturdy, durable and well-constructed brick wall.
Advice and tools for building a brick wall
At MPH we stock a comprehensive range of tools and equipment for all your masonry projects. For all enquiries, contact us for help and guidance from our friendly and knowledgeable team.
CONTACT US:
Call our depot on 020 8351 3434 (option 3)
Email: info@mrplanthire.co.uk
Install our handy app via Google Play or Apple Store
Or use our contact form