DIY Guide: Building Stunning Brick Columns for Your Home

Brick columns add a touch of elegance, permanence, and value to any property. Whether flanking a driveway entrance, supporting a porch roof, or accentuating a garden pathway, brick columns create a visual statement that enhances curb appeal and provides lasting structural support. While professional bricklaying services are available, undertaking this project yourself can be a rewarding experience, saving you money and allowing for complete customization. This comprehensive guide provides detailed, step-by-step instructions for building brick columns, ensuring a successful and aesthetically pleasing outcome. Before you start, it’s crucial to check local building codes and regulations to obtain any necessary permits. Ignoring these requirements can lead to fines or the need to dismantle your structure.

## Planning and Preparation

Before you even think about laying the first brick, meticulous planning and preparation are essential. This stage sets the foundation (literally and figuratively) for a successful project.

**1. Design and Dimensions:**

* **Determine the Purpose:** What will the column support? A simple decorative column will have different structural requirements than a load-bearing one. If the column is load-bearing, consult with a structural engineer to determine the necessary dimensions and reinforcement.
* **Choose a Style:** Consider the overall aesthetic of your home and landscape. Do you prefer a classic, traditional look, or something more modern and minimalist? Research different brick patterns, column shapes (square, round, octagonal), and cap styles to find the perfect fit.
* **Plan the Dimensions:** The height and width of your columns should be proportionate to their surroundings. Too tall and they’ll look imposing; too short and they’ll get lost. Standard brick sizes vary, so consider the dimensions of your chosen brick when planning the column’s footprint. Allow for mortar joints (typically 3/8 inch) in your calculations.
* **Consider the Cap:** Brick columns often feature a decorative cap to protect the top from water damage and enhance their appearance. Choose a cap style that complements the column’s design. Options include pre-cast concrete caps, brick caps, or even custom-made stone caps. Factor in the cap’s dimensions when calculating the overall height of the column.

**2. Gather Materials and Tools:**

* **Bricks:** Calculate the number of bricks needed based on the column’s dimensions. Add an extra 10% for waste and breakage. Choose bricks that are durable, weather-resistant, and visually appealing. Consider using the same bricks as your house for a cohesive look. Order all bricks at once to ensure they are from the same dye lot, avoiding subtle color variations.
* **Mortar:** Choose a type of mortar appropriate for your climate and the type of brick you’re using. Type S mortar is generally recommended for brick columns due to its high compressive strength and bonding properties. Calculate the amount of mortar needed based on the number of bricks and the thickness of the mortar joints. It’s always better to have a little extra than to run out mid-project.
* **Concrete Mix:** For the footing, you’ll need concrete mix. Calculate the amount based on the footing’s dimensions. Use a high-quality concrete mix designed for exterior use.
* **Gravel or Crushed Stone:** For the base of the footing, you’ll need gravel or crushed stone for drainage.
* **Rebar:** Reinforcing steel bars (rebar) are essential for adding strength and stability to the column, especially if it’s load-bearing. The diameter and spacing of the rebar will depend on the column’s size and load-bearing requirements. Consult with a structural engineer for guidance. Use rebar tie wire to secure the rebar cage.
* **Column Forms (Optional):** For perfectly square or round columns, consider using temporary column forms. These forms provide a framework for the concrete footing and can also help maintain the shape of the column as you lay the bricks. Use plywood or commercially available column forms.
* **Water:** Clean, potable water is essential for mixing the concrete and mortar.
* **Tools:**
* **Shovel and Wheelbarrow:** For mixing and transporting concrete.
* **Mortar Mixer (Optional but recommended):** Makes mixing mortar much easier, especially for larger projects. If not, you’ll need a mortar box or tub and a hoe.
* **Trowels:** A brick trowel for applying mortar and a pointing trowel for finishing joints.
* **Level:** A long level (at least 4 feet) is crucial for ensuring the column is plumb (vertical) and level.
* **Plumb Bob:** Another tool for verifying vertical alignment.
* **Rubber Mallet:** For tapping bricks into place.
* **Brick Hammer:** For cutting bricks (if necessary).
* **Mason’s Line:** For maintaining straight, consistent courses.
* **Line Blocks:** To hold the mason’s line in place.
* **Measuring Tape:** For accurate measurements.
* **Safety Glasses:** To protect your eyes from debris.
* **Work Gloves:** To protect your hands.
* **Dust Mask:** To protect your lungs from dust.
* **Mixing Buckets:** For measuring and mixing small batches of mortar.
* **Brick Jointer (or Striking Tool):** For creating uniform mortar joints.
* **Angle Grinder with Diamond Blade (Optional):** For cutting bricks more precisely and creating decorative features.
* **Concrete Float:** For smoothing the concrete footing.
* **Tamper:** For compacting the gravel base.

**3. Site Preparation:**

* **Clear the Area:** Remove any vegetation, debris, or obstructions from the area where the column will be built. Ensure you have enough working space around the column.
* **Excavate the Footing:** Dig a hole for the concrete footing. The depth and width of the footing will depend on the column’s size, weight, and soil conditions. A general rule of thumb is to make the footing at least twice as wide as the column and extend below the frost line in your area to prevent heaving due to freezing and thawing. Consult local building codes for specific requirements.
* **Compact the Soil:** Thoroughly compact the soil at the bottom of the excavation using a hand tamper or plate compactor. This will provide a stable base for the footing.

## Building the Footing

The footing is the foundation of your brick column, providing a solid, level base that distributes the column’s weight evenly into the ground. A properly constructed footing is crucial for preventing settling and cracking.

**1. Add a Gravel Base:** Pour a layer of gravel or crushed stone (4-6 inches thick) into the excavated hole. This provides drainage and helps prevent water from accumulating under the footing. Compact the gravel thoroughly using a tamper.

**2. Build Forms (If Needed):** If you’re using forms to create a perfectly square or round footing, assemble them according to the manufacturer’s instructions. Ensure the forms are level and securely braced to prevent them from shifting during the concrete pour.

**3. Mix the Concrete:** Mix the concrete according to the manufacturer’s instructions. Use a concrete mixer for larger projects, or mix it in a wheelbarrow using a shovel. Add water gradually until you achieve a workable consistency. The concrete should be wet enough to pour easily, but not so watery that it separates.

**4. Pour the Concrete:** Pour the concrete into the prepared hole or forms. Fill the entire excavation to the desired level. Use a shovel or trowel to distribute the concrete evenly and eliminate any air pockets.

**5. Insert Rebar:** While the concrete is still wet, insert the rebar into the footing. The rebar should extend up from the footing and into the column itself, providing a strong connection between the two. The number and placement of the rebar will depend on the column’s size and load-bearing requirements. Typically, rebar is arranged in a grid pattern within the footing and extends vertically to tie into the column’s reinforcing structure. Ensure the rebar is properly spaced and secured.

**6. Level and Smooth the Surface:** Use a concrete float to level and smooth the surface of the concrete footing. Ensure the surface is perfectly level, as this will be the base for your brick column. Use a level to check for accuracy.

**7. Cure the Concrete:** Allow the concrete to cure for at least 7 days before building on it. Keep the concrete moist by covering it with plastic sheeting or spraying it with water regularly. Curing is essential for the concrete to reach its full strength. Avoid walking on the footing during the curing process.

## Laying the Bricks

With a solid footing in place, you’re ready to start laying the bricks. This is where your patience and attention to detail will pay off.

**1. Prepare the Mortar:** Mix the mortar according to the manufacturer’s instructions. Use a mortar mixer for larger projects, or mix it in a mortar box or tub using a hoe. Add water gradually until you achieve a workable consistency. The mortar should be thick enough to hold its shape on the trowel but not so stiff that it’s difficult to spread. Let the mortar slake (rest) for 10-15 minutes after mixing to improve its workability.

**2. The First Course:** This is the most important course, as it sets the foundation for the entire column. Apply a thick bed of mortar (about 1 inch) to the footing, slightly wider than the width of the bricks. Place the first brick in the mortar bed, pressing it firmly into place. Use a level to ensure the brick is perfectly level. Continue laying bricks around the perimeter of the column, maintaining a consistent mortar joint (typically 3/8 inch) between each brick. Use a mason’s line and line blocks to ensure the first course is straight and square. Check the course frequently with a level and plumb bob to ensure it’s level and plumb.

**3. Subsequent Courses:** Apply a layer of mortar to the top of the previous course of bricks. The mortar should be thick enough to create a solid bond between the bricks. Pick up a brick with your trowel and butter one end with mortar. Place the brick on top of the mortar bed, pressing it firmly into place. Use a rubber mallet to gently tap the brick into alignment. Maintain a consistent mortar joint between each brick. Use a mason’s line and line blocks to ensure each course is straight and level. Stagger the joints between courses to create a strong, interlocking pattern. This is typically done by using half-bricks in alternating courses. Cut bricks using a brick hammer or an angle grinder with a diamond blade.

**4. Maintaining Plumb:** Regularly check the column for plumb (vertical alignment) using a level and plumb bob. If the column is leaning, gently tap the bricks into alignment using a rubber mallet. Correct any imperfections immediately, as they will become more difficult to fix as you build higher.

**5. Reinforcement:** As you build, continue to extend the rebar upward through the column, tying it together with additional horizontal rebar using tie wire. The spacing and placement of the rebar will depend on the column’s size and load-bearing requirements. If the column is hollow, fill the core with concrete or grout to provide additional strength and stability. Ensure the concrete or grout is thoroughly consolidated to eliminate any air pockets.

**6. Mortar Joint Finishing:** Once the mortar has partially set (but is still pliable), use a brick jointer or striking tool to finish the mortar joints. This compresses the mortar and creates a neat, professional-looking finish. There are several different joint styles to choose from, including concave, V-joint, and flush joint. Choose a style that complements the overall design of your column. Remove any excess mortar from the face of the bricks using a brush or damp sponge.

**7. Continuing to the Top:** Repeat steps 3-6 until you reach the desired height for your column. Remember to constantly check for plumb and level, and make adjustments as needed.

## Adding the Cap

The cap is the finishing touch that protects the top of the column from water damage and enhances its appearance.

**1. Prepare the Surface:** Ensure the top of the column is clean and level. Remove any loose mortar or debris.

**2. Apply Mortar:** Apply a thick bed of mortar to the top of the column, slightly wider than the cap. The mortar should be thick enough to create a solid bond between the cap and the column.

**3. Place the Cap:** Carefully place the cap on top of the mortar bed, centering it on the column. Press it firmly into place. Use a level to ensure the cap is perfectly level.

**4. Adjust and Align:** Adjust the cap as needed to ensure it’s properly aligned with the column. Use a rubber mallet to gently tap it into place. Check for overhang on all sides. The cap should have a slight overhang to help protect the column from water damage.

**5. Finish the Joints:** Finish the mortar joints around the cap using a brick jointer or striking tool. Remove any excess mortar from the cap and the column using a brush or damp sponge.

**6. Curing:** Allow the mortar to cure for at least 7 days. Keep the mortar moist by spraying it with water regularly.

## Tips and Considerations

* **Work in Manageable Sections:** Don’t try to build the entire column in one day. Work in sections of 1-2 feet at a time to ensure accuracy and prevent fatigue.
* **Protect from the Elements:** If you’re working in hot or sunny weather, protect the bricks and mortar from drying out too quickly. Cover the column with plastic sheeting or spray it with water regularly.
* **Clean as You Go:** Regularly clean any excess mortar from the face of the bricks to prevent staining.
* **Practice Makes Perfect:** If you’re new to bricklaying, practice laying bricks on a small, inconspicuous area before starting on the column itself.
* **Consult with Professionals:** If you’re unsure about any aspect of the project, consult with a professional bricklayer or structural engineer.
* **Consider Lighting:** Integrate lighting into your columns for added ambiance and security. You can install low-voltage lights within the column or mount fixtures on the cap.
* **Plan for Drainage:** Ensure adequate drainage around the base of the columns to prevent water from accumulating and damaging the footing. This is especially important in areas with heavy rainfall.
* **Use a Mortar Dye (Optional):** Add a mortar dye to the mortar mix to change its color and complement the bricks. This can create a unique and custom look.
* **Sealing:** Consider applying a sealant to the finished brick column to protect it from water damage and staining. Choose a sealant that is specifically designed for use on brick.

## Troubleshooting

* **Cracking:** Cracking can occur due to settling, expansion and contraction, or improper mortar mixing. Small cracks can often be repaired with mortar patching. Larger cracks may require more extensive repairs or even rebuilding sections of the column.
* **Efflorescence:** Efflorescence is a white, powdery deposit that can appear on the surface of brick. It is caused by salts dissolving in water and migrating to the surface. Efflorescence can usually be removed with a stiff brush and water. In severe cases, a commercial efflorescence cleaner may be needed.
* **Mortar Joint Deterioration:** Mortar joints can deteriorate over time due to weathering, freeze-thaw cycles, and chemical attack. Deteriorated mortar joints should be repointed (removed and replaced) to prevent water from penetrating the column.

## Conclusion

Building brick columns is a challenging but rewarding DIY project. By following these detailed steps and taking the necessary precautions, you can create stunning brick columns that will enhance the beauty and value of your home for years to come. Remember to prioritize safety, take your time, and pay attention to detail. With careful planning and execution, you can achieve professional-quality results and enjoy the satisfaction of knowing you built it yourself.