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  • Outdoor Kitchen: Brick and Mortar Basics, Part 2
  • From "Build an Outdoor Kitchen"
    episode DBOK-102


    In this segment of Build an Outdoor Kitchen, host Jay Baker and homeowner Jim Howard continue work on installation of the brick trim around the outdoor cabinet and counter unit.

    Materials:

    bricks
    string line
    level
    mortar
    trowel
    cinder Blocks
    brick tongs
    concave jointing tool
    wheelbarrow
    advertisement


    • With the first three bricks installed at the high end of our slope, next move on to install the next three bricks at the opposite end of the cabinet base -- at the low end of the slope. This allows a string line to be run from one end to the other. This will help them all be level and plumb.

    • Jim and Jay continue work, carefully buttering each brick with a thin layer of mortar (figure A) then placing each brick carefully (figure B), ensuring that they are installed level and plumb, and following the chalk line marked earlier as the reference for the top surface of the bricks.
    Photo

    Figure A

    Photo

    Figure B


    Tip: Jay establishes a three-dimensional representation of the blue chalk line (delineating the proper height of the bricks) by essentially extending that line out with string. He places two cinder blocks on each end of the counter unit base. He then takes a string line and extends it between the cinderblocks on either end (figure C), creating a string reference-line for both the height and front-edge dimension for installing the rest of the bricks (figure D).
    Photo

    Figure C

    Photo

    Figure D


    • Continue laying the course of bricks (figure E), following the techniques described earlier and using the string line as a reference (figure F).
    Photo

    Figure E

    Photo

    Figure F


    • Use a concave jointing tool to smooth the mortar lines between the brick. This specialized tool (figure G) allows you to give a consistent shape to each section of mortar while removing any excess (figure H).
    Photo

    Figure G

    Photo

    Figure H


    In the segment that follows, the brick is laid for the raised fire-pit.

    Important: Included in this segment are the steps in this outdoor home-improvement project as shown in the episode. These steps are general guidelines that are applicable for similar construction projects. For any construction projects, there may be procedures, specifications, equipment, etc. that are specific to the specific site and circumstances. There may also be variations according to the type and brand of materials you select. Always consult local building codes when undertaking significant home-improvement projects, and read and follow the manufacturer's directions and precautions that come with any materials, tools or equipment you decide to use.

    Next: Next: Raised Fire-Pit

  • ALSO IN THIS EPISODE: