Content

• Steps
• Warnings
• What do you need

Laying concrete blocks is a fairly straightforward process, but with some additional tips, you can do the job much better, making this basic task even easier. It is important to use materials that suit your construction project and follow the steps in the correct order to get the best results.

Steps

1. 1 Get the building block instructions you need for your project. Concrete blocks come in a variety of shapes, sizes, and cementitious properties. Here are some points to keep in mind.
   • Standard rectangular blocks can be used for most building projects. You can combine these with half-blocks by adding square or curved corners around the edges of a wall or sidewalk block. You can also use single or double corner bricks to smooth edges or corners.
   • Measurement for standard units is displayed as 8 inches (20 cm), but the actual width is half an inch (1.25 cm) less. A half-inch gap is made to place the mortar between the blocks, which also takes up some space.
   • Use jambs of beam blocks around the doorway. Window units can be used when you want to install double-glazed windows with a hole. Place these blocks at the top of the wall if you need to to create space for fasteners or other building supports.
   • You can buy custom blocks or even build building blocks to add a personal touch to your building project.
2. 2 Pour a concrete base (also known as a base). This will be the foundation of your wall. Here's some information you need to know about building a foundation.
   • The depth of the foundation should be at least twice the wall thickness. For example, a wall support with standard 8 "(20 cm) blocks must be at least 16" (40 cm) deep.
   • Make holes in the wall for gas, water and power lines.
   • Make sure the foundation is flat by placing a level on top of it.
3. 3 Create concrete block piles for your project and prepare the site before starting the main building process. You can do this in one of the following ways.
   • Anchor the corner piles firmly into the ground at each corner of the wall. They will keep the corners in line with the angle you want.
   • Measure the total length of your wall to figure out how many building blocks you need. The length must be a multiple of the types of blocks you are using. Use corner bricks or cut out concrete blocks as needed to complete the wall.
4. 4 Place concrete blocks as soon as your foundation is ready. It's not just work, so you also need to be smart and know how to get it done.
   • Start stacking blocks from a corner or edge of a wall so you can work in one direction.
   • Place the mortar 1 inch (2.5 cm) high and the same width as the block you are placing on it. You can place the mortar about 3 blocks long in the direction you place the bricks.
   • Apply the mortar to the end of the block before placing the next block adjacent to it.
   • Try not to leave gaps when applying the grout as this will weaken the bond between the blocks.
   • Periodically check with a level that your walls are level.

Warnings

• Placing concrete blocks can be a tough job that can lead to blisters. Wear construction gloves to protect your hands.

What do you need

• Concrete blocks
• Concrete mixer
• Corner piles
• Building level
• Construction gloves