Brick laying is a fundamental building skill that's been refined over centuries, but understanding exactly how it works helps you spot quality workmanship and avoid costly mistakes. Whether you're building a garden wall, backing up a house, or completing a commercial project, the process follows proven methods that separate professional results from amateur work. This guide breaks down the real steps involved and what you should expect when hiring or comparing brick layers.
The Foundation: Mortar and Base Preparation
Before a single brick goes down, the foundation must be rock-solid. A brick layer will first prepare the base—typically a concrete footing or existing concrete slab—and ensure it's level and clean. Any debris or loose material is removed because mortar won't bond properly to a dirty surface.
Next comes mortar preparation. Standard mortar is a mix of cement, sand, and water, typically in ratios of 1:3 or 1:4 (cement to sand) depending on the wall type. Too much cement makes it brittle; too little reduces strength. A professional will test the consistency—it should hold together but spread smoothly without slumping off the trowel.
The Laying Process: One Brick at a Time
The actual brick laying follows a methodical pattern:
- Spread a bed joint: The layer applies mortar to the base in a roughly 10–12mm thick layer using a trowel
- Butter the vertical joint: The end face of the next brick gets a coating of mortar
- Press and level: The brick is placed and tapped with the trowel handle until it sits at the correct height and line
- Check plumb and level: Every few bricks, the layer uses a spirit level to ensure vertical and horizontal alignment
- Point the joints: After mortar firms slightly (usually 24–48 hours), joints are filled and finished for appearance and weatherproofing
The spacing between bricks—typically 10mm—remains consistent throughout. A good brick layer maintains this tolerance within 2–3mm across an entire wall.
Bond Patterns and Their Purpose
Brick layers don't just stack bricks randomly; they follow specific bonding patterns that distribute load and prevent cracks. Common bonds include:
- Stretcher bond: Single-skin walls with bricks laid end-to-end (quickest, less material)
- English bond: Alternating courses of stretchers and headers (headers are bricks laid across the wall width) for maximum strength
- Flemish bond: Alternating stretchers and headers in the same course, primarily decorative but still structural
The choice depends on wall thickness, load requirements, and aesthetic goals. A professional will know which bond suits your specific build.
Curing and Timing
Once laid, mortar needs time to cure properly. Most modern mortars reach workable strength within 24 hours but full strength within 7–14 days. During this period, the wall should not bear heavy loads or be exposed to heavy rain. This is why brick work is often scheduled around weather forecasts—heavy rain during curing weakens mortar bonds significantly.
What Affects Cost and Timeline
Brick laying rates typically range from £25–£50 per square metre for straightforward walls, with costs rising for complex patterns, curved walls, or specialist bricks. A typical brick layer completes 300–400 bricks per day on standard work, so a 10-square-metre wall takes roughly 4–5 days of labour.
Factors that increase costs:
- Non-standard or reclaimed bricks (slower to lay, variable sizes)
- Intricate bond patterns requiring careful layout
- Poor access or awkward locations
- Weather delays during curing
- Decorative pointing or coloured mortar
Quality Red Flags to Watch
When comparing brick layers, inspect their previous work. Look for inconsistent joint widths, bricks that aren't level or plumb, mortar that's cracking prematurely, or signs of water penetration. Ask for references and check recent projects in your area—local weather conditions affect how mortar performs long-term.
If you're unsure about quality or getting competitive quotes, Mercoly helps you compare and find trusted brick and block laying providers in one place, so you can review qualifications and past work side by side.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: How long does mortar take to dry completely? Initial set occurs within 24–48 hours, but mortar continues to cure for up to 28 days before reaching maximum strength. Avoid loading the wall or exposing it to rain during the first week.
Q: Can brick work be done in winter? Yes, but colder temperatures slow mortar curing and frost can damage soft mortar. Most professionals use frost-protection additives or cover finished work during freezing weather.
Q: What's the difference between lime mortar and cement mortar? Lime mortar (traditional) is softer, more flexible, and allows brick movement; cement mortar is harder and faster-setting but can trap moisture if the brickwork isn't properly maintained. Choice depends on brick type and building age.
Ready to find your next brick layer? Use Mercoly to compare trusted providers and get matched with professionals who fit your project.