Build Brick Columns
Bricks were always used when building homes or walls. As time changed so did innovation, bricks were being used as many other different things or rather purposes. People started realizing the effects and advantages of bricks. More so, designers started to implement bricks in their work thus making brick a decorative accessory. One of the several creations that can be made based on bricks is the brick columns. The brick columns add a special feature anywhere they are located. It has been said they add life to the spot where they are. Over the years, much more have been created out of brick columns. Basically, to have brick columns is a nice addition to the place it\’s at.
Brick columns provide an additional beautification to your home\’s surroundings whether they are short or tall, they are often used to create accent deck, porch railings, freestanding columns for decorations or even act as plant stands in your garden. Building it is easy if you have the right tools and the knowledge of building the brick columns. It\’s better if you have someone to assist you in this project, as then you will finish even faster without frustration. If you are doing it on your own, then you have to make sure you understand all the steps and needs before you get started.
What you need:
- Rake
- Tamper
- Mortar
- Trowel
- Masonry bricks or Recycled bricks
- Stepping stone
Method:
- Firstly, start by raking the ground where you have decided to build the brick columns and also remove all obstacles such as stones, pebbles, and other materials that make it difficult to level the column. You must also smooth the soil at the location using a manual tamper.
- Place four or more recycled bricks on the level ground making it an open square or a rectangle formation. This will be the base foundation of your column and make sure the first layer is even by using a level before proceeding with the next step.
- On the first level of the bricks, you need to apply mortar along with a trowel and also leave some of it uncovered by at least 1/8 inch from the outside edge. This will enable the mortar to expand whenever bricks are laid on top of one another.
- Build another brick column by adding the second layer bricks on top of its base. Ensure that it is level before adding more mortar onto it and also between adjoining bricks. Press down each of the brick into the mortar so that the mortared will joint close together and always remove excess mortar that drips onto the side of the brick column by using the side of the trowel.
- Keep adding the layers of bricks until you have achieved your required height and on the top layer add one more coating of mortar before using a stepping-stone and place it on top pressing it in the mortar. Leave the mortar to cure for at least 48 hours before placing anything on the top of the brick column.
Additional Reading:
http://www.ehow.com/how_5006699_build-brick-columns.html
http://www.doityourself.com/stry/how-to-build-brick-columns
http://www.ihowd.com/how-to-build-a-column-footing
Image Credit:
http://www.flickr.com/photos/local_louisville/4442357863/
