Brickwork and Bricklaying: A DIY Guide

Brickwork and Bricklaying is written for those who are new to the craft of bricklaying, and those who are improving their skills. It provides an overview of the materials, processes, craft skills and related subjects to enable the reader to construct their own simple brickwork projects and undertake brickwork-related maintenance projects around the home. The book covers: . Materials: Constituents and mix proportions of concrete and mortars, and how to mix both. Overview of different types, classifications and uses of bricks and blocks . Foundations: How to place, compact and cure concrete for simple foundations and bases . Setting-Out: Simple methods of transferring levels and establishing the positions of wall lines on site . Bricklaying: Overview of bricklaying tools; step-by-step methods and instruction on all the basic craft skills of bricklaying; different methods of bonding brickwork; finishing mortar joints and basic cavity wall construction . Boundary Walls: Design principles for free-standing walls, including the application and construction of piers, copings and caps . Decorative brickwork: Simple methods of decoratively enhancing brickwork projects . Maintenance: Identification of common defects associated with brickwork and masonry, and methods for rectifying those defects AUTHOR: Jon Collinson began working as a bricklayer in 1984, at the recommendation of his father. He has continued his varied career in the construction industry, including bricklaying, health and safety, estates management and many years of teaching brickwork as a vocational craft subject. He currently runs his own building and construction firm. ILLUSTRATIONS: 110 colour photos