How to Build Brick Columns

Step-by-Step Guide

1. 1

   Step 1: Decide on the size of brick column you would like to build

   A 12 inch x 12 inch (30.48 cm x
   30.48 cm) column will require 4 bricks per layer.
   
   A 16 inch x 16 inch (40.64 cm x
   40.64 cm) column will require 6 bricks per layer.
   
   If you want to create anything bigger, for example a 32 inch x 32 inch (76.2 cm x
   76.2 cm) column, you will have to create a 24 inch x 24 inch (60.96 cm x
   60.96 cm) block column for support and wrap it with a 32 inch x 32 inch (76.2 cm x
   76.2 cm) brick surface to guarantee a sturdy post.
   
   Measurements below are for a 7 foot (2.13 m) tall, 12 inch x 12 inch (30.48 cm x
   30.48 cm) brick column.
2. 2

   Step 2: this will help you calculate the amount of materials necessary to execute your plan.

   This will prevent the bricks from soaking up too much mortar. , If you are building around a metal rod, the rod will become the center of your column.
   
   If you are creating more than 1 column, outline the first and last columns of the series and space the outlines of the remaining columns in between the first and last column outlines for accurate spacing. , This will serve as your marker to make sure the bricks are being lined and spaced precisely; the corner of each brick should line up to the string line to ensure a straight construction.
   
   This method will prove difficult when first lining up the edges of the bricks, but it will save a significant amount of time as opposed to using a level after each layer (or course) of brick laid. , A screed is an aluminum device used to flatten out and smooth wet, pasty materials. , This spacing is called a joint. ,,,, This secures the mortar into place and allows proper water runoff from snow, rain, and other elements.
   
   Do not allow the mortar to get so dry that it is no longer moldable. ,
3. 3

   Step 3: Wet the bricks a couple hours before beginning the construction of the column.

4. 4

   Step 4: Outline a 12 inch x 12 inch (30.48 cm x 30.48 cm) blueprint of your column on the ground where the base of the brick column will be located and

5. 5

   Step 5: if applicable

6. 6

   Step 6: where the top of the column will end up on the ceiling of your patio or entryway.

7. 7

   Step 7: Attach a string line from the base of the column outline to the top of the column outline where one of the corners of the brick column will lie.

8. 8

   Step 8: Slather a thin layer of mortar for the base of the column

9. 9

   Step 9: smoothing it out using a screed.

10. 10

    Step 10: Lay 4 bricks in a square design

11. 11

    Step 11: leaving 1/2 inch (1.27 cm) spacing between each brick.

12. 12

    Step 12: Fill each joint between the bricks with mortar.

13. 13

    Step 13: Slather another 1/2 inch (1.27 cm) layer of mortar on top of the first brick course to create a top joint.

14. 14

    Step 14: Repeat the previous 3 steps for 37 courses (or layers) to create a 7 foot (2.13 m) tall 12 inch x 12 inch (30.48 cm x 30.48 cm) brick column.

15. 15

    Step 15: Concave all of the joints every 2 to 3 layers using a concave joint tool.

16. 16

    Step 16: Brush the mortar with a light whisk brush to smooth out the mortar after concaving.

Detailed Guide

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