Installing a brick veneer wall is a task that requires plenty of time, patience and skill, but can still be completed by an average DIYer. For years of a long-lasting installation, following these step-by-step instructions will ensure that the brick veneer wall is properly installations:
First, attach a steel angle to the lowest area of the building at which you wish to install the brick veneer wall. Fasten the steel angle with galvanized exterior screws if it’s being attached to wood, and with masonry nails and/or a stud gun if it’s being attached to cement.
Second, wrap the wall in a moisture barrier. Starting at the bottom, horizontally wrap the wall and staple it in place. Allow each row of the moisture barrier to overlap the row below it by five inches so that any build-up of water is able to run off and be channeled away.
Third, apply a layer of mortar that is one inch thick over the steel angle. Use a trowel to evenly spread the mortar. Carefully place the bricks into the mortar with the first layer of bricks being placed onto the top of the layer of mortar above the steel angle. Make sure the first row of bricks is checked with a bubble level.
Fourth, cut and place small sections of rubber tubing between the bricks of the lowest row. This is to encourage any water that builds up in the wall, behind the bricks, to flow outwards and away from the wall. Fill any of the remaining gaps with mortar.
Fifth, immediately begin nailing galvanized metal wall ties horizontally every 32 inches and vertically every 26 inches onto the sheathing. Be sure to stagger these wall ties to ensure the veneer wall is properly supported with its considerable weight.
Sixth, place the next course of bricks and apply a layer of mortar on top that is also one inch thick. With each course, double check it’s level with the spirit level and that each layer of mortar is even.
Continue this method until the top of the wall is finally reached. This is an important job and it is best to take your time in order to make sure it is done properly. Once the brick veneer wall is finished, it should stay for many years to come with minimal maintenance.
