Laying brick and block is the foundation of durable structural work—get the process wrong, and you're looking at cracks, water damage, or worse down the road. Whether you're building a new wall, fireplace, or foundation repair, understanding the methods and best practices helps you spot quality work and avoid costly mistakes. This guide walks you through what the process actually involves and what to expect when hiring a professional.
The Core Block Laying Process
Block laying starts with proper site prep and a solid foundation. Your mason will first inspect the base—whether existing concrete or freshly poured—to ensure it's level and clean. Any debris, old mortar, or uneven spots get cleaned away because even small high points throw off the entire wall's plumb.
Next comes the layout. A experienced layer marks out the first course (bottom row) using a level, string lines, and reference points. This first row is critical; it sets the accuracy for everything above it. Block is then "buttered" (mortar applied to the edges) and laid in courses, with each layer checked for level and plumb as work progresses.
Mortar Mix & Pointing
The mortar you use directly affects longevity and appearance. Standard mixes are typically a ratio of 1 part cement to 3 parts sand, but the exact mix depends on the block type, climate, and whether the wall faces weather exposure. Weaker mortars (1:4 or 1:5 ratios) are sometimes used for interior non-load-bearing walls; stronger mixes (1:2.5) for structural work in freeze-thaw regions.
Proper pointing—the final mortar joint finish—prevents water infiltration. Common joint styles include:
- Concave joints – recessed, excellent weather resistance
- V-joints – decorative and functional
- Raked joints – flush or slightly recessed, often for aesthetic effect
- Flush joints – level with block face, least weather-resistant
Pointing should be done before mortar fully sets, typically 30 minutes to 2 hours after laying, depending on temperature and humidity.
Reinforcement & Structural Integrity
Load-bearing walls require rebar or mesh reinforcement every 16 to 32 inches vertically, depending on code and design. Bond beams (special concrete-filled block at intervals) distribute loads across wider areas. Proper lap length for overlapping rebar is typically 24 times the bar diameter—a mason cutting corners here compromises structural safety.
Control joints every 20 to 25 feet prevent stress cracks from expansion and contraction. These are pre-formed gaps filled with flexible sealant, not mortar.
Common Quality Issues to Watch For
Poor workmanship shows up quickly if you know what to look for. Uneven mortar joints, visible voids in mortar (especially behind block), and walls that aren't plumb or level are red flags. Ask a mason to point out the first course and check with your own level; it should be dead-level.
Mortar that's too wet or too dry affects bond strength. If applied too thick or rushed, it won't cure properly. The block face should show consistent color and no efflorescence (white salt staining), which indicates water is migrating through joints.
Frost damage is another concern in cold climates. Block porous enough to absorb water will fail when exposed to freeze-thaw cycles. A reputable mason specifies weather-appropriate material grades—typically Grade A for exterior walls in harsh climates.
Timeline & Cost Expectations
A mason typically lays 300 to 500 block per day, depending on wall complexity and conditions. For a straightforward single-story exterior wall, expect 3 to 7 days for a 2,000 square-foot job. Intricate brickwork with multiple colors or patterns takes longer.
Labor costs run $50 to $150 per hour or $0.25 to $0.50 per block laid, plus materials. Material costs vary widely—concrete block from $1 to $3 each, clay brick $0.60 to $2 each, and mortar $0.08 to $0.15 per block. Total per-square-foot pricing typically falls between $15 and $35 for basic block, higher for decorative brick.
Finding Trusted Professionals
Look for masons with verifiable references and photos of completed work in your region. Ask whether they follow local building codes and pull permits. A professional should explain their method, mortar choice, and timeline upfront—vague answers suggest inexperience.
Mercoly makes it easy to compare and find trusted brick and block laying providers in one place, so you can review their experience and get quotes side-by-side.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: How long does mortar take to cure before the wall bears load? Mortar typically reaches 50% strength in 7 days and full strength in 28 days; most codes require a 7-day wait before significant loading.
Q: What's the difference between block and brick, and does it matter which I choose? Concrete block is cheaper and faster to lay; clay brick is more durable and weather-resistant but costs more and requires a more skilled mason.
Q: Should I hire a mason based on lowest price alone? No—poor quality costs far more in repairs; prioritize experience, references, and code compliance over price alone.
Get quotes from multiple qualified masons and review their work in person before deciding.