Essentials of
Masonry

LAYING UP THE CORNERS

After the first course of blocks are laid, build up the corners of the wall next, usually four or five courses higher than the first course. As you lay up the corners, cut each course back one-half block.

2-15. Applying Mortar. For the horizontal joints, apply mortar only to the tops of the blocks already laid. You may apply mortar for the vertical joints to the vertical end of the block to be laid, to the vertical end of the block previously laid, or to both.

2-16. Using a Level. As you lay each course at the corner, check it with a mason's level for alignment. Make sure that the corner is level and plumb (Figure 2-14). Check each block carefully, making certain that the faces of the blocks are all on the same plane. This will ensure true and straight walls.

 
Figure 2-14. Aligning, leveling, and plumbing

2-17. Using a Story Pole. Use a story or course pole (a board with markings 8 inches apart) to determine the height of the wall for each course (Figure 2-15).

 
Figure 2-15. Using a story or course pole

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