The construction of the walls is one of the most critical steps in the construction of a house. This chapter, 10.4, of our e-book course will guide you through masonry techniques for building walls. Masonry is an ancient skill that involves building structures by placing individual blocks or stones, which are then cemented together.
Before we start building the walls, it's important to point out that safety must be our top priority. Be sure to wear proper personal protective equipment, including gloves, safety boots, goggles and hard hats. Also, be careful when handling heavy materials and make sure the workplace is clean and tidy to avoid accidents.
Material Choice
First, you need to choose the type of material to use. Clay bricks, cinder blocks and stones are the most common. The choice will depend on your budget, the local climate and the desired style of home. Clay brick is an ecological option and provides good thermal insulation. On the other hand, concrete blocks are more resistant and durable, but do not offer the same thermal insulation as clay bricks.
Site Preparation
After choosing the material, the next step is to prepare the site. This involves digging out the foundation, placing the first row of blocks or bricks and making sure they are level. The first line is crucial because it determines the alignment of subsequent lines.
Building the Walls
To build the walls, you will need a trowel, a trowel, a level, and a measuring tape. Start by applying a layer of mortar to the foundation where the first block or brick will be placed. Place the block or brick in the mortar and use the trowel to remove excess mortar. Use the level to check that the block or brick is level. Continue this process until the first row is complete.
For subsequent rows, apply grout to the top of the block or brick below and to the sides that will contact the other blocks or bricks. Use the mason's line as a guide to ensure the blocks or bricks line up. Continue this process until all walls are complete.
Reinforcement of Walls
Walls should be reinforced with reinforced concrete pillars at regular intervals and at corners. This helps to increase the strength and stability of the structure. In addition, openings for doors and windows must be considered when constructing the walls.
After building the walls, they should be left to cure for a few days. During this time, they must be kept moist to prevent the mortar from drying out too quickly and cracking.
Finishing the Walls
Finally, the walls are finished with plaster, which is a mixture of cement, sand and water. Plaster helps protect walls and also provides a smooth surface for painting or wallpapering.
Building the walls of a home is a laborious and time-consuming process, but with the right masonry techniques, you can build strong, durable walls that will protect and shelter your family for years to come.
We hope this chapter has given you a clear picture of how to build the walls of a house. In the next chapter, we will discuss about installing the roof. Stay tuned!
