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General Instructions to Blockwork Mason (Before Starting Work)

By Pankaj Pednekar last updated:  Post a Comment

 1.Surface & Line

  • Clean the slab and remove all debris or mortar droppings.
  • Check and lay DPC (if mentioned in drawing) of required thickness and material
  • Allow the DPC to set and dry completely before starting blockwork.
  • Mark wall layout lines clearly using chalk and thread.
  • Fix the first starter course of blocks as per approved drawings
  • Get confirmation from the Site Engineer/QA-QC before proceeding.


2. Material

  • Use only approved blocks - check size, shape, and no cracks or damage.
  • Use approved block adhesive & mix as per manufacturer (e.g. 20-30% water by weight)
  • Incase mortar used - mix ratio 1:4 (cement:sand)
  • Use clean construction water.
  • Use Measuring box (farma) and mixing tray for accurate measurement and clean mixing
  • Use standard tools: plumb bob, spirit level, mason's square, float notched trowel, trowel, line dori, measuring tape, etc
  • Use block adhesive within its pot life as per manufacturer (e.g. 120 min).


3. Preparation Before Work

  • Soak blocks lightly if they are AAC or dry type as per instructions
  • Ensure starter bars, conduits, and inserts are properly fixed.
  • Do proper hacking on all RCC surfaces (60-80 per sq.ft.)
  • Apply bonding agent on all RCC joints and finish with cement slurry for strong bonding.


4. Block Laying

  • Start blockwork from corners and door jambs using plumb line and level.
  • Maintain straight line, level, and plumb in every course.
  • Adhesive thickness: 3-4 mm
  • Mortar joint thickness: 10-12 mm
  • Stagger vertical joints; avoid continuous straight joints.
  • Ensure proper bonding at junctions and columns with keys or mesh.
  • Fill the top gap between block and beam with filler board or approved mortar if gap > 18 mm.
  • Do 10 mm deep raking of horizontal and vertical block joints.


5. Openings & Supports

  • Provide RCC bands & mullions, lintels for door and window
  • openings as per drawing
  • Leave proper gaps for electrical conduits and plumbing pipes.


6.Curing

  • Start water curing after 24 hours of block laying
  • Cure mullions, patli, lintels properly.
  • Continue light curing for block joints, minimum 3 days when mortar is used
  • No curing is required when using block adhesive.


7. Finishing & Cleaning

  • Clean extra mortar from wall surface and joints.
  • Maintain clean working area - no broken blocks or mortar lumps


8. Safety & Quality

  • Wear helmet, gloves, and safety shoes during work.
  • Check dimensions, alignment, plumb, level, and opening sizes.
  • Ensure no hollowness or weak joints.
  • After completing get approved by site engineer/QA-QC.