Learn Bricklaying to Build Your Self-Esteem

There are some functions in life that we simply cannot perform for ourselves, and so we properly rely on others to do them for us. Thankfully, self-surgery is not an option for life in the early days of the 21st Century. Then there are other things that come naturally to us, such as running or preparing a simple meal. And there are still other tasks that are done by others as a profession, but which we can learn to do ourselves that can save us money and bring a sense of satisfaction at having completed the task that previously was beyond our reach. Among this latter category is bricklaying. Some will study it on a bricklaying apprentiship by the side of a craftsman and take it up as their life's work, but a larger group seeks to know enough of the basics for the occasional garden project that needs doing.

To learn bricklaying , some will choose to watch a skilled craftsman at work, watching intently as he methodically assembles a structure. They make mental notes as bricks are selected, tools are assembled, mortar is mixed, and measurements are taken again and again. Others will consult a textbook or perhaps search the internet for information - and hopefully enough photographs - that will provide a rudimentary understanding that allows them to do the minimums needed to get the job done. Still others will consider that the only way to really learn is to interact with an instructor or someone who really knows the trade and can show them its secrets, so they enroll in an educational program in hopes of acquiring the skills that they desire to possess. The method is most often determined by the intended outcome.

Let's imagine that you want to create a simple walkway and steps leading from the street to your home, all to be made of brick. The first task is to estimate the number of bricks that you will need for your project. In today's world, Bricks are made with a uniform metric size of 225 long, 75 mm high, and 112.5 mm from back to front, so try to make all of your measurements in multiples of these dimensions. You will need to subtract a few for breakage, and then consult with your supplier to make sure that you have the right type of bricks for your project. You may also need to pick up a few other brick made of different sizes and shapes in order to give your work just the right touch based on your available space. Now you are ready to get your hands dirty and learn bricklaying techniques with your own yard as your canvas.

Choosing the proper mortar can make or break a project. Mortar that is pure cement will set quickly and become quite strong, but cracking may occur from settling and shrinkage as the mix dries. A lime mixture may address these latter issues, but it also is weak and dries very slowly. A combination cement-lime mortar is commonly used today because it is stronger, sets more quickly, and has the required strength to last. The selected mortar is then mixed with sand in a ratio based on the type of brickwork to be done. For our project, we will go with one part mortar for every three parts of sand. Ready-mixed mortar has become commonly available in most places, requiring only that you only need to add water. Ready-mixed is especially good for small projects.

The tools necessary for the job are few and easy to collect, with the most important being the trowel, which can be either right or left-handed. Also important are the spirit level and club hammer, which are used to keep your work level as you continue to build upwards and outwards. Now, the fun begins as bricks are carefully fitted into place, keeping mortar joints clean and uniform as you work deliberately through the process, and you begin to visualize the finished product. It may be necessary to cut some bricks into smaller pieces in order to have a uniform finished edge at the end. For larger projects where you are putting up a habitable structure or garage, remember to submit your plans to the local planning authority in advance so that your intentions will be clear to all.

Above everything else, have fun. Almost anyone can learn bricklaying , and the work of art that you are creating from an image that was formed in your mind is something that will last for years. Regardless of how well your project may turn out, it will become a touchstone for future ventures that you are now encouraged to take on, simply because you made the effort to try your hand at something new. If you can construct a brick walk, imagine what else you can do around the house!

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