concrete block foundation

[ed_v]

Hi guys, I hope everyone had a great garage action filled weekend.


I have a question. I have no issues doing concrete work, but I've never done any block work. How hard is it to lay block? Any tips, tricks, or anything to watch out for?

My biggest fear is not staying straight, level, or having enough/too much mortor. What's the guidlines for amount of mortor?

Not sure if I'll tackle this myself or not. Thanks in advance.

Ed

 

[bdymnjm]

Hi Ed,

I built my foundation with block. 1st time I ever used them. I checked out some videos online to get some tips. I set up a grid with mason lines well above the work area and used a plumb bob to check the corners on each course. The lines were leveled with a transit. Set corners first. I bought wood blocks that hold a line tight between the corner blocks so I could just lay the block outer edge to the lines. I checked level after I set a few blocks and tapped them as needed. the line lets you know if there isnt enough morter in between the blocks. You can vary the morter joint width some if you dry set the last few and they are not fitting right. I used the better mortar mix from HD. I found the amount of water varied per bag somewhat. I think the joints are 3/8''. There is a tool to strike them before its dry for that nice look. I also pushed in more and hand rubbed if it loooked like I had a gap. If the mix is too dry it doesnt stick to the blocks well. I hosed the blocks to remove dust so the mortar would stick. To stick the mortar to the end of the block first kinda toss/drop on the ends and swipe it down on an angle. I built mine on a concrete footing with a keyway. I probably forgot something but that was pretty much how I did it 6 months ago.
Jim

 

[theoldwizard1]

Got to use the right mortar and get it mixed to the right consistency.

 

[Rookie2]

maybe an evening course at your local Vo-Tech school .
I tryed laying block , i sucked ! the mortor mix is everything ! it has to be the same for every batch . not an easy task without a block layer there to help.

 

[hybred355]

Get a block layer to help you,Get him to build the corners and bring his mortar mixer, you get sand and cement. He will tell you what kind. After the corners are up he can leave you to play with it. I did this job for 40 years and have seen some real bad looking jobs, Good luck. Larry

 

[NUTTSGT]

I'm not a mason not any means but I have done a few block. Practice, practice practice.


Don't be afraid to do some reading on the subject to get a basic understanding of what you should do, then watch some videos on youtube. After you've done that, put what you have learned to task and practice, have plenty of patience.

If you know somebody that lays block, talk to them and see if you can help them for a few days and see what is going on.

 

[ed_v]

This is all good advice. Thank you all for your input.

Ed

 

[Pete D.]

Ed you have to be level headed and plumb minded to lay block.

 

[ed_v]

Ed you have to be level headed and plumb minded to lay block.

Well... I'm screwed then

Ed