How to build concrete block wall
Masonry block walls or concrete block walls are very common walls offering many advantages. Building concrete block walls is easy but requires patience and precision for a neat project. Here are some steps that you could follow to help you build a concrete block wall.
Step 1: Stake the Wall –
Start by marking out the outside of the concrete block wall perimeter. Set the stakes with a rubber a mallet and use a twine line that will help you determine if the lines are straight.
Step 2: Prepare the Foundation –
Prepare a foundation for the wall. Normally foundation for concrete or masonry block walls are made out of concrete and should be at least four inches wider than the width of the block. Allow the concrete foundation to acquire strength. When the block wall is built over an existing concrete slab, make sure that the surface is moist and one-inch bed of mortar has been spread over the footing.
Step 3: Start Laying the Blocks, Install the First Course –
Start mixing mortar mix as instructed. The first course of blocks should be installed below floor level and inside the foundation trench. This first line of concrete blocks shall rest on top of a layer of mortar mix. Spread mortar along the sides of the block and remove the excess mortar with a trowel.
Repeat until the first course has been installed. Check the course with a level. Then, even it out with a thicker layer of mortar, if it is not. For best result make sure there is a 3/8 inch gap between the blocks. This gap will then become the vertical joint.
Step 4: Installing the Second Course –
Step Repeat the action performed in the previous step to add another course of blocks.
Blocks can be set in such way that will create an interlocking pattern meaning that the ends of one course of blocks sit above the centre of the blocks beneath them. Keep installing blocks and try to install no more than six courses per day. Allow the mortar to set completely before continuing to lay concrete blocks. Once the mortar is hard, remove excess mortar and smooth the joints.
Step 5: How to Cut the Concrete Blocks –
Concrete blocks at one point will need to be cut so they can be installed in corners and along joints. The best way to cut a concrete block is to use a hammer and chisel to create a line where the cut is desired. This line should be created after you have measured the void on which the block will be installed.
Using the hammer chip away the block along the line. Be careful on not to apply excessive force while hammering otherwise the block could be broken into smaller pieces. Continue hammering until the block breaks apart.
Step 6: Building Structural Masonry walls –
When the concrete block wall needs to be reinforced then, that is considered a structural masonry wall. Vertical reinforcement can be installed within the block cells and filled with mortar. Horizontal reinforcement might be needed as well, using prefabricated welded wires that are placed along the horizontal joints of in between courses.
The horizontal reinforcement will also prevent or control shrinkage cracking.
When the wall is designed as an exterior wall then another wythe of masonry is recommended. If single wythe exterior walls are to be installed, a barrier should be provided on the exterior surface, such as a fluid-applied, breathable masonry coating or over-cladding (EIFS, metal panels, stucco and similar) to prevent water penetration into the masonry. It could be possible that a second wythe is to be installed to support loads.
Materials and Tools Checklist –
The key to starting off this style of project is the equipment, correct tools and materials for the job and having them all close to hand. Quantities of the following materials will vary depending on the size and sub-base requirements of your project.
- NGM Blocks Concrete Blocks
- NGM Blocks Cement Bags
- NGM Blocks Aggregates and dried Sand
- Water
- All-purpose plaster
- Plastic sheets
- Coarse sand
- Wheel barrow
- Steel trowelz
Please use Personal Protective Equipment when carrying out this work, such as safety shoes and gloves. Gloves, Safety Goggles, Dust Mask, Ear Defenders, Knee Pads.
