Brickwork and Bricklaying: A DIY Guide

Informative. Must read.

I wanted to build a brick BBQ, this book seems to have a lot of good information, but it doesn’t have many pictures and diagrams. Also the equations for calculating materials are not well presented. I found the Black and Decker Masonry and Stonework much, much more useful for a newbie like me, with plenty of pictures and examples.

I am currently working in Myanmar and have been looking for a useable text book for vocational teachers to use for reference when developing student handouts and learning resources. Brickwork and bricklaying could be that book. However, whilst it claims to be suitable for all skill levels, it does require a good basic level of knowledge and skill because it does not fully explain processes. However, I have recorded the information which I will be able to purchase hard copies.

Great resource - very clearly written, and a thorough covering of the material. I don't know why, but I thought there'd be a section on foundations for the brickwork, but that was missing - that's my fault. Another downside, is that this book is aimed at British builders. Brick sizes, lingo, and other points are all UK-centric. This is something that you'll need to keep in mind if you're building in any other area - formulae and sizes will change based on your region (brick sizes, for example are different in the US vs. the UK).

exellent hardcover book, clear colour pics, nicely set out for beginner to advanced.

Good enough for my purposes. My uncle was away for Thanksgiving. I decided to prank him by using bricks to completely seal off his doorway entrance. Easy prank that is also affordable if you have enough time.....And a connection in the brick and mortar industry I am also a fan of Poe's The Cask of Amontillado so the prank is even more enjoyable.

I got this book last year and have being reading it since then. It have so much information about the bricklaying skills and many more about the skills and materials that is used ion bricklaying, and what I like about this book that the author did he best so that people can understand all the processed and photos explained true out the book

As far as books can teach you a practical skill then this one can do it in spades. Or trowels. The author takes you right through the whole process of brick laying from manufacture to choices to laying them. All the various motor mixes, brickwork designs and techniques are well written about. There are plenty of clear drawings and photographs to accompany the fairly lengthy written sections that help illustrate what you are trying to achieve. Couple of things. I was surprised at just how complicated and technical brick laying is if it is to be done correctly. And secondly, a book can't teach you everything. What it can do is give you some great background knowledge at which point you then need to go and watch a few on line videos. After that you should have enough nous about you to have a go. Which will not be pretty, but if you stick with it you could be a decent level of DIYer able to make neat garden walls etc. Overall this is probably the current best book around for background learning laying bricks. Highly recommended.

I bought this whilst doing a City and Guilds bricklaying course and have referred to it frequently.

This book simply can't teach you how to bricklay . . . you need a trained bricklayer breathing down your neck for that. But it IS the perfect complement to some hands-on teaching. It's packed with information and takes a very practical approach. Worth reading before you do a course, during, and for review afterwards. I was more than happy with it.

This book is fantastic for home improvements. so much relivent information. Good practical advice and specifications of materials.Packed with information. Easy to read for someone with little previous knowledge but easy to learn from. I would say this book is a must have for serious diy building.