Brick & Block

Brick & Block covers practical how-to guides for masonry projects, from small repairs to building simple walls.

You’ll find articles on mortar basics, mixing and tooling joints, setting bricks/CMU blocks, fixing cracks, and common beginner mistakes. I focus on real-world steps and materials that actually work on site.

If you’re planning a brick, block, or mortar project, start here and work your way through the basics before you jump into the more specialized guides.

red brick wall with wooden door and concrete steps

Soundproofing block partitions: resilient channels, furring, and sealing gaps

Introduction Soundproofing block partitions means reducing sound transfer by using resilient channels, furring strips, and careful sealing. This is a practical, hands-on approach you can tackle in a DIY project, with steps that rely on basic framing and sealing practices. Start by evaluating the existing wall, then install resilient channels and furring to create a […]

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Person drilling into foam insulation board on block wall

Insulating block walls: interior foam vs exterior foam and moisture consequences

Introduction Insulating block walls can be achieved with interior foam or exterior foam, and the choice shapes how moisture moves through the wall. Interior foam keeps insulation on the room side, while exterior foam faces the outdoors. Both approaches affect how moisture dries and where you risk condensation. When you plan the install, think about

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Electrical tools and measuring tape on circuit blueprint

Running electrical conduit through block: neat chases and patching that blends

Introduction Running electrical conduit through block is the process of routing conduit inside masonry walls and creating clean chases to hide it. Plan the route to minimise visible repairs and maintain wall strength. Check for hidden obstacles and follow safety and building guidelines when shaping the chase. After routing, patch the chase with material that

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Hand placing small brick on mini brick wall

Placing anchor bolts in block bond beams: templates that actually hold alignment

Introduction Anchor bolts in block bond beams are embedded hardware used to secure framing and hold alignment during construction. This article covers practical, hands-on steps for placing them accurately. You’ll want to verify embedment and spacing with the project at hand. Templates can help keep bolts aligned as you set them, but you must check

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Hand holding grout float over tiled wall

Repairing grout blowouts in block walls: what’s cosmetic and what’s a structural red flag

Introduction Grout blowouts in block walls are gaps where the grout has failed and the fill no longer stays in place. This article helps you tell which gaps are cosmetic and which signal a structural issue. It keeps the focus on safe, practical repairs you can assess from the surface. Start by looking for signs

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Close-up of rough cut limestone blocks arranged in a wall

Backfilling timing for block retaining walls: when the wall is ready and how to avoid bowing it

Introduction Backfilling timing for block retaining walls means starting to fill behind the wall only after the wall is stable and set. Check that the wall is properly tallied with the foundation, that acceptable drainage components are in place, and follow manufacturer or local guidelines before proceeding. Use small lifts and follow recommended guidance to

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Worker wearing yellow helmet drilling into wall with power drill

Adding drainage to an existing block retaining wall: surface fixes vs partial rebuilds

Introduction Adding drainage to an existing block retaining wall involves improving water handling to prevent pressure buildup behind the wall. It covers surface fixes and partial rebuild options for managing run-off and seepage. This guide stays practical and aims to help you assess signs of drainage problems and choose safe approaches. You’ll start by identifying

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Close-up of a power drill with a drill bit attached

Adding control joints in block walls: where to place them and how to detail the break

Introduction Control joints in block walls are intentional breaks that help manage movement and crack control. They should be planned with the wall’s stress points in mind and placed at key locations. Where to place them depends on wall length, layout, and climate, so identify long spans and changes in the wall condition. Detail the

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Cordless drill, wrench, drill bit, and assorted screws on wood

Mounting shelves on block walls: fasteners that don’t crumble the web

Introduction When mounting shelves on block walls, use fasteners and anchors designed to grip blocks without damaging their inner web. Choose from practical options such as masonry screws, toggles, and anchors designed for hollow or solid blocks. Select based on your wall type and the expected weight of your shelves. When installing, consider the drilling

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