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Masonry Wall Construction Method

Updated Mar 25, 2026
Step-by-step procedure for building CMU or brick walls: layout, mortar, unit placement, reinforcing, grouting.

Layout: 1) Snap chalk lines for wall location. Dry-lay first course to verify module (check corners and openings). 2) First course: full mortar bed on footing, set corner blocks first, string line between corners, fill in field blocks. Level and plumb each unit. 3) Subsequent courses: face-shell mortar bedding (1/2-3/4 in joints). Running bond (half-bond offset). Stack every 3-4 courses to check coursing and plumb. 4) Reinforcement: vertical rebar in cells per plan (typically 32-48 in o.c.). Horizontal joint reinforcement (Dur-O-Wal) every 16 in vertically. 5) Grouting: low-lift (pour every 4 ft max) or high-lift (pour full height with cleanout openings at bottom). Grout slump 8-10 in. Consolidate with vibrator. 6) Bond beams: horizontal reinforced courses at top of wall, lintels, floor lines. 7) Control joints: at 20-25 ft intervals, changes in height/thickness, one side of openings. 8) Lintels: steel angle or reinforced masonry over openings. Inspection: TMS 402 requires inspection per IBC Chapter 17.

TAGS
masonryCMUbrickwallgroutreinforcementmethod
DETAILS
crew size
2-4
equipment
["mortar mixer","scaffold","levels","line"]
productivity
100-150 CMU/mason/day
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