Bricklaying Tips and Techniques - A Practical Guide for Better Builds
Whether you're a seasoned bricklayer or just starting out, mastering the basics and understanding the finer details can make a big difference in both the quality and efficiency of your work. Bricklaying is a skill that requires a careful balance of precision, patience, and practice. And just like any trade, the right techniques, tools, and preparation can save you a lot of time and hassle on site.
At CemixFlo, we know that the best work starts with solid foundations both in your method and your tools. That’s why we’ve put together this guide to some of the most important bricklaying tips and techniques every builder should know.
Start with a Solid Set-Out
A proper set-out is the foundation of any successful wall. Taking the time to carefully measure and mark your lines can save hours down the line and prevent costly mistakes. Always use a line and spirit level to mark out your first course, and check that your corners and angles are square. It’s a good idea to dry-lay your bricks first, especially for smaller projects, so you can visualise how the wall will run and make any necessary adjustments before applying mortar.
Know Your Bonds
The type of bond you use doesn’t just affect the appearance of the wall it also has an impact on strength and load distribution. The stretcher bond is the most commonly used pattern, particularly for single-skin walls, due to its simplicity and efficiency. For heavier-duty or more decorative work, English and Flemish bonds offer a more traditional and robust structure, alternating stretchers and headers to improve strength. Stack bonds can be visually striking, but they’re best suited to non-load-bearing walls, as the vertical joints can weaken structural integrity if not reinforced.
Choosing the right bond for the job is an important step that’s often overlooked, especially on quick domestic builds. Taking a few minutes to assess which method best suits your wall’s purpose is always worth it.
Get Your Mortar Mix Right
One of the most common causes of poor brickwork is badly mixed mortar. If the mix is too dry, it won’t bond effectively. Too wet, and it will slump or smear across the face of your bricks. A standard mortar mix for general bricklaying is around one part cement to five or six parts sand, with a plasticiser added for better workability. It's also important to measure your water carefully to maintain consistency from batch to batch.
This is where tools like CemixFlo can really help. Our Quick Connect water pipe delivers a precise flow straight into your cement mixer, helping you avoid the time-wasting guesswork of buckets and under-filling. Not only does it save time, but it also helps ensure a more consistent, workable mix.
Lay with Care
Bricklaying isn’t about rushing it’s about rhythm. Each brick should be buttered on the end with mortar (the perp joint), then laid onto the bed joint with a slight twist to ensure it sits correctly. A gentle tap with the handle of your trowel will help seat it in place. It’s tempting to over-apply mortar to speed things up, but excess mix squeezed out from the joints can lead to a messy finish and may need cleaning up later.
Keeping your joints clean as you go makes your life a lot easier. It also results in a better-looking wall, which matters whether you're on a small garden job or a big site project.
Don’t Ignore the Weather
Bricklaying in the wrong conditions can undo all your hard work. On hot days, mortar can dry too quickly, so it's worth lightly dampening the bricks to slow down the setting time and improve bonding. In cold or frosty conditions, bricklaying should be avoided altogether mortar won’t cure properly and the bond can weaken. Wet weather can also create problems, so always try to cover your materials and work area to prevent water damage.
Use the Right Tools for the Job
As with any trade, bricklaying is easier and faster with the right gear. A good level, clean trowel, and jointing tools are essential. But time-saving innovations can make an even bigger difference. Tools like the CemixFlo Quick Connect Pipe are designed specifically to help speed up everyday tasks like getting water into your mixer without back-and-forth trips and spilled buckets. It’s a small change that can save you serious time, especially on fast-paced site jobs where every minute counts.
Final Thoughts
Bricklaying may look straightforward, but it’s a skilled craft that rewards good habits and thoughtful planning. Taking the time to get the basics right — from your set-out to your mortar mix will always pay off in the quality of your work. And with the right tools on hand, you can cut time without cutting corners.
If you’re interested in learning more about time-saving site tools or seeing how CemixFlo could help streamline your workday, get in touch with us. We’re always happy to talk shop.