MASONRY: NEED TO KNOW

If you opt for a brick and block home, there are a number of things to consider and make allowances for in order to achieve your project on time and budget. Here are the key elements:

Workmanship As this is an on-site construction system, the finished performance does largely depend on the quality of the workmanship, so choose your tradesman wisely. Your building professionals need to take care to ensure that an airtight layer is achieved – it is not as easy as with prefabricated techniques.

Weather In comparison to a factory system, brick and block is more labour intensive, and it will take longer to reach weathertight stage – typically up to 18 weeks. Unfortunately this means you are at the mercy of the weather and your tradesmen will need to allow each course of mortar enough time to dry out to an adequate level.

Storage Again, as this is an on-site system, you’ll need to make allowances to store items that haven’t been used yet. Where will your bricks and insulation be kept? You need to create a space that is clear and dry to ensure products perform as intended.

Costs The project price of a brick and block home can vary significantly depending on the brick stock you select and where abouts you live in the country (due to labour costs). A typical budget might be £1,400-£1,700 per m² – but expect to pay more if you want a high performance specification.