You can apply a veneer brick, 1 to 1 ½” thick, glued to the wall to create a non-weighted wall with no mortar joints. Alternatively, you need to make sure you have proper support to hold the weight of the masonry concrete hearth or angle iron.
More and more homeowners are looking for creative ways to say goodbye to plain walls and give their interior spaces an edgy, modern vibe with the use of brick. Masonry is quickly becoming the go-to choice for Ottawa homeowners looking to change the design of a room with colour and texture. Keep reading for five tips on how you can build the perfect brick wall for your space.
1. Measure your wall and gather materials
The first thing you’ll want to do is measure the height and width of your wall so you can gather up enough bricks to complete the job. You’ll also need a straight board of wood that you can use as a guide, and some string to help you keep your work level.
2. Level as you work
Masonry walls are constructed brick by brick, but with each layer of bricks that you put down, you’ll have to double check that they’re level so you can correct any errors before you continue with the next course of bricks. Use a taut piece of string, clamped off on either side of the wall, as a guide for each layer of bricks that you lay.
3. Grouting
Depending on which room your brick wall is in, you’ll need to take extra care to protect the brick and grouting from moisture damage. If you’re working in the kitchen or bathroom, consider adding a protective coating of sealant to prevent mould and deterioration.
4. Finishing your brick
Once your brick wall is complete, it’s time to decide on the finished look that you’d like. Apply a gloss finish to enhance and protect the natural beauty of the brick, or try painting it for a cool, modern look. White is a popular choice for bedrooms, while grey offers the perfect compromise between a natural and a white finish.
5. Decorative touches
Showcase the natural beauty of your brick by adding mirrors, artwork, shelving and other accents to tie all the design elements of the room together. Take extra care when hanging anything on a brick wall; you’ll have to drill into the mortar and use masonry anchors to avoid causing damage.
Is your masonry in need of repair or restoration?
Leave major masonry repairs to the professionals at Bol-Dan Foundation & Masonry. Bol-Dan has provided fast, friendly and professional masonry services and foundation repairs to Ottawa and the surrounding region for nearly 30 years. Contact us today to learn more about the services we provide or to request a free estimate.