Tools and Materials

Tools

Materials

Note

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Expert Tips

Before laying cinder blocks, pour a footing. This will serve as the foundation for the blocks.
The footing should be poured below the frost line, which will vary according to the location. It should be allowed to cure for a minimum of seven days before installing blocks on top. Begin by laying the corner blocks and securing them with mortar.
Blocks should be stacked in an alternating pattern. Be sure to apply mortar to the sides of the blocks before stacking the next row.

Laying Block

Note: For load-bearing walls, consult your local codes for reinforcement requirements. Build your block structure to last. Watch our DIY Basics video: What Do Level and Plumb Mean?

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Instructions

First, construct a solid footing of foundation wall using concrete mix. The footing should be twice the width of the wall with a depth at least equal to the width of the wall. The footing should rest on firm soil (preferably undisturbed) set below the frost line. Check with your local building department for the exact depth of the frost line. Allow the footing to cure at least seven full days before beginning to lay the concrete wall blocks.

Spread a full bed of blended mortar mix approximately 1 inch (25 millimeters) thick along the footing. Position the corner block carefully in the bed of mortar. Beginning with the second block, apply mortar to the head joint (vertical edge), and press the block down into the mortar and slide into position against the previously laid block. Mortar joints should be a consistent 3⁄8 of an inch (10 millimeters) thick.

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