bricklaying how difficult is it???

[butterfly76]

I want to build up my garden wall which currently has about 5 layers of brick. Is it really hard to do could a unexperienced person mange it? with a book or something to guide them?

[Clanad]

As with any endeavor requiring skill and experience, a person without either can accomplish the job but don't expect good or even acceptable results. The knowledge required just to achieve a good mortar mix is considerable. The lay out and maintaining a level and plumb line of bricks is also difficult. See if there's anyone that could at least get you started and monitor your attempt for a little while. If not, you probably won't be happy with the results. Some things just can't be learned sufficiently from pictures and books, in my opinion... A good mason is as much an artist as he is a sound workman... Best of luck!

[parkesquay]

It may seem obvious but it may be best best to dig below the existing wall base level and check that it actually has footings.

I totally agree with Clanad in that it is kind of nice and satisfying to do stuff like that but it might be better to find somebody to supervise your efforts, at least initially. You can get advice, skilled and for free, in your local B&Q for example. Enjoy.

[buildersmate]

I'd endorse what Clanad says - bricklaying is easier to learn by having someone show you - not by books. It helps that you have the 5 courses to start with because you would have a straight line to follow

[MustafaTinkl]

In UK a bricklayer works with bricks, a mason works with stone.

[gazzawazza]

I am brickie by trade and would say that it took me quite a while practising over and over before I made anything that looked nearly reasonable.

Having said that, I have seen work by DIYers that would pass as acceptable on sites and one person in particular can lay bricks as neat and as accurately as any brickie I've seen, (even better than lots I've worked with). The key for him is that he just takes his time over it and obviously gets great satisfaction out of producing a top job.

[butterfly76]

Thank you all