BRICKLAYING TIPS & ADVICE

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Tools required :-  Spade / shovel, spot board, bucket, bricklaying trowel, 150mm boat spirit level, 600mm - 1000mm spirit level, lump hammer, bolster chisel, tape measure, plumb line (a length of string with a couple of nails attached), a piece of metal or rubber tube 20 - 25mm dia, soft hand brush. Bricklaying usually requires a bit of practice in order to 'gain the knack' (Most DIYers, myself included usually ' jump in with both feet' and start the project straight away), if you have never laid bricks before it is good practice to build a sample wall first, e.g.  a four brick course, … [Read more...]

ADDITIVES FOR MORTAR AND CONCRETE

These are the most commonly used additives that are used with mortar and cement :- Plasticiser :- This is added to mortar to reduce cracking and crazing and makes the mortar more durable.   Waterproofer :- This additive helps to increase water resistance in mortar and render.   Colouring agent :- This comes in various colours such as Black, Brown and Red and is added to mortar and cement until the desired colour is reached. Note using different sands can produce different shades of colour.   Concrete hardener and dustproofer :- This is applied to the concrete … [Read more...]