The Right Way to Install Brick Veneer

An Orlando brick veneer is the perfect way to add textured flair and style to any interior space. It gives the traditional brick aesthetic with more economic benefits, making it a versatile material for a variety of renovation projects. If you’re going to install your own brick veneer wall, make sure you do it right the first time so you don’t have to waste your time and money calling in someone to fix it.

1. Wall preparation. First things first, make sure the wall that will receive the Orlando brick veneer application is completely smooth and clean. The glue will have trouble bonding if the walls aren’t clean. Also, use a level and a straight piece of wood to create a ledger, or guide. This ledger will help you keep the bricks straight. Once the project is finished, the ledger will be removed.

2. Brick cutting. Cutting the brick now will save you time when it comes to laying the veneer. Use a tile “wet” saw or a diamond blade grinder for the best results.

3. Lay the corners. Like a puzzle, start with the corners. Use a notched trowel to spread mastic over a small portion of the bottom corner; then, firmly press a full brick on the bottom corner, move upward and interchange a half brick with a full brick. This creates the traditional running bond pattern. Work about halfway up the wall with the edge before moving on to lay the full row.

4. Lay the rows. Working your way up the wall, one row at a time, complete each row, or course. Step back every now and then to make sure all the courses are running evenly.

5. Level the rows. Use a 4-foot level to ensure the courses are running straight. You have about 20 minutes before the adhesive begins to set, so use your time wisely to adjust or reposition the brick veneer.

6. Consider your spacing. Make sure you leave ⅜” to ½” for grout joints between each brick and each row. Don’t be too technical, it’ll look more authentic and natural if you measure this distance with your eyes. If you’re meticulous about detail, cut a wood strip into ⅜” strips and make grout spacers.

7. Finishing the wall. Once you’ve reached the halfway point, start at the top corner and continue with steps 2 – 6. You can choose to raise the brick veneer to the ceiling, or finish it off with a border.

8. Grout application. Make sure the entire wall has 24 – 48 hours to dry, then add grout between the joints of the brick. Using a grout bag for application will ensure that it doesn’t get too messy. Afterwards, use a grout finishing tool to smooth everything over, and make sure you only work in small areas for best results.

If you’re looking for a variety of brick veneer options, contact Bedrock Industries today. Bedrock Industries is the Orlando brick veneer supplier capable of helping you with all of your masonry needs.