Laying block and footings

[Al Martin]

Getting ready to get my footings up(12") next spring. Anyone have a good DIY link for laying block. Only planning 3 or 4 rows on a 4' deep footing.

Will be for my quonset hut/shop project. Cant wait!
Thanks.
Al

 

[NUTTSGT]

Maybe take a few classes at the local vocational school or maybe find a contractor that will let you hang out a few days and help.


It maybe just easier to ask a contractor what he'd charge to do a small side job for cash. Some of those guys will doa side job for a buck a block if you help tend for them.

 

[bimmer1980]

I was in a similar situation and figured out how to lay block. I wasn't quick, but I did sorta enjoy the hard labor...

Check out a masonary book from HD, Lowes or even the library. Read it thoroughly. Then go watch a pro in action... and of course, get some block, mortar and start practicing....

 

[PAToyota]

Laying block is fairly easy. Hardest part is the weight of the blocks.

But I'd recommend either getting some first-hand experience with someone or at least watching some videos (YouTube, local library, etc). There are a few tricks to working with mortar that are better to be seen than trying to decipher from a book.

And to be safe, go back and check your work once it is dry. When I first started, I let the mortar get a bit too dry towards the end of a batch and it didn't bond to the block. A slight kick and you could pop the block loose.

 

[James E]

Don't forget that block have a top and a bottom. There is a slight flare that should be at the top--helps hold the mortar for the next course.

 

[Al Martin]

Thanks guys,
Keep em comming!
BTW, I work in the construction trade (sheetmetal). Havent found anybody yet.
Well see.
Thanks.
Al

 

[Identaltech]

wet the block first and keep everything level and plumb use the wire reinforcement every other course. build up the corners first then fill in the middle

 

[NUTTSGT]

Well if you're in the construction trade, you may be able to find another contractor that will trade labor with you.

 

[brownbagg]

no no no no DONT WET THE BLOCK that a big mistake, also code violation. the block has to be dry so when you apply the mortar is creates a sucking in moisture, locking the mortar in to the poorse. if the block is wet the mortar will not stick and just slide off

 

[gatchel]

I paid about $2 per block for laying my foundation. I supplied the materials. It was well worth it. Out less than 1/8" all the way around. I didn't want to risk it. The foundation is too important to be out of level. If the season is coming to an end and the block guys are looking for work you may be able to get a better price.

Also, my block guy absolutely wanted the block to be dry as brownbagg mentioned above. It rained during the job and he wanted the block covered.

 

[avc8130]

We just did a garage for a buddy of mine. The lesson we learned was to pay a block layer and a mason. Get one skilled guy to run the job. You and your buddies act as laborers. The job is done quickly, accurately and you save money.
ac

 

[Dan in Pasadena]

...planning 3 or 4 rows on a 4' deep footing.

They're called courses, not "rows". You don't want to sound like a Gomer when you hire that mason.