1. Choosing the right material is crucial

When building exterior walls, selecting the appropriate construction material plays a key role. Several options are available, each with its own advantages and disadvantages.

Clay brick blocks – An excellent choice due to their high strength, good thermal mass, and long lifespan. Modern precision-cut bricks reduce mortar consumption and speed up construction.

Autoclaved aerated concrete (AAC) blocks – Lightweight, easy to work with, and offering excellent thermal insulation properties. Their main drawback is lower structural strength compared to brick.

Concrete blocks – Ideal for load-bearing and retaining walls, offering high strength but lower thermal insulation performance.

Before starting construction, it’s important to consider climate conditions, building type, and energy-efficiency requirements in order to choose the most suitable material.

2. Proper base preparation and laying the first course

The first course of masonry forms the foundation of the entire structure. If it is not perfectly level and precise, all subsequent courses will be misaligned, which can cause serious problems later in the construction process.

The base must be level and dry – Before masonry work begins, check the foundation slab for levelness using a level or surveying equipment.

Apply waterproofing – A waterproof membrane should always be installed on the foundation to prevent moisture from wicking into the walls.

Precise placement of the first course – A mason’s line and level are essential tools. The accuracy of this step determines the quality of the entire wall.

A properly laid first course saves time during later stages and minimizes the need for corrective adjustments.

3. Use quality mortar and correct construction techniques

The mortar used has a direct impact on the strength, stability, and durability of the wall. The choice of mortar depends on the type of material being used.

Cement mortar – Suitable for traditional brick masonry, providing strong and durable joints.

Thin-bed adhesive mortar – Used with precision-cut bricks and AAC blocks, significantly reducing thermal bridging.

Thermal insulating mortar – Ideal for energy-efficient buildings, as it reduces heat transfer through joints.

For traditional masonry, a joint thickness of 10–15 mm (3/8–5/8 in) is recommended, while thin-bed systems typically require only 1–3 mm.

It’s also important to follow proper bonding patterns—each new course should be offset by at least half a block to avoid continuous vertical joints.

4. Ensuring wall strength – reinforcement and lintels

Even when high-quality materials are used, certain wall sections require additional reinforcement, especially above doors and windows.

Lintels over openings – Openings should be spanned using prefabricated lintels or cast-in-place reinforced concrete lintels.

Wall reinforcement – In some systems, such as AAC masonry, installing reinforcing bars in selected courses is recommended to improve structural stability.

Expansion joints – For longer walls, expansion joints are necessary to prevent cracking caused by temperature changes.

Following these principles ensures a strong, stable, and durable wall structure.

5. Quality control and compliance with standards

Continuous quality control is essential during masonry work. Errors made at this stage are difficult to correct later and can lead to additional costs.

Use a level and mason’s line – Regularly check each course to prevent uneven walls.

Respect curing times – Allow mortar and masonry sufficient time to cure properly to avoid cracking.

Consult professionals – If you lack experience, it’s wise to consult a specialist or hire a professional mason.

Before starting construction, review current construction labor costs, as prices vary depending on location, wall type, and project complexity.

Quality masonry is the foundation of a successful build

Properly constructed exterior walls ensure structural stability, energy efficiency, and long-term durability of a building. The key to success lies in following correct construction methods, using quality materials, and maintaining consistent accuracy throughout the process.

If you’re planning new construction or a renovation, consider whether to perform masonry work yourself or hire professionals. Masonry labor costs vary by project scope, but investing in skilled workmanship can save time, money, and future repair expenses.

Before beginning construction, carefully analyze your budget and choose the solution that offers the best value for money. Building a home is a major investment, and it pays to prioritize quality from the very foundation.