Brick pillars are a timeless addition to any property, providing a sense of permanence, elegance, and structure to gardens, gateways, and fence lines. They can serve as stately entrance markers, support for a gate, or simply as a beautiful landscape feature. Many people assume that masonry work is strictly the domain of professionals, but with careful planning and the right guidance, building a sturdy and attractive brick pillar is a very achievable DIY project.
Learning how to build a brick pillar can be an incredibly satisfying experience, allowing you to add significant value and curb appeal to your home with your own hands. This guide is designed to walk beginners through the entire process, from laying a solid foundation to the final pointing of the mortar joints. We’ll demystify bricklaying techniques and provide the knowledge you need to construct a pillar that is not only beautiful but also built to last.
Why Building a Brick Pillar is a Great Landscaping Project
Building a brick pillar is an excellent way to add a touch of classic architectural style to your landscape. These structures provide a strong focal point and can define spaces, mark entrances, or support lighting and gates. Unlike wooden posts that can rot or metal that can rust, a well-built brick pillar offers unmatched durability and requires very little maintenance, lasting for decades. This project is a fantastic opportunity to learn valuable masonry skills, and the result is a permanent, high-quality feature that significantly enhances your property’s aesthetic and value.
8 Step-by-Step Guide: How to Build a Brick Pillar
Step 1: Design the Pillar and Prepare the Foundation
Before you lay a single brick, you must plan your design and create a solid foundation. A standard square pillar is often two bricks by two bricks. The foundation is the most critical element for structural stability; it must be solid and level. Dig a square hole that is at least 6 inches wider than the pillar on all sides and deep enough to go below the frost line in your area (typically 12-24 inches). Fill the bottom of the hole with a 4-inch layer of compacted gravel for drainage, then pour a concrete footing that is at least 8 inches thick.
Step 2: Mix the Mortar to the Correct Consistency
The mortar is the glue that holds your pillar together, so getting the mortar mix right is essential. You can use a pre-mixed mortar blend or create your own by mixing one part Portland cement, one part hydrated lime, and six parts building sand. Add water gradually to the dry mix in a wheelbarrow or on a mixing board, combining it with a shovel or hoe. The ideal consistency is a smooth, buttery paste that is thick enough to hold its shape on a trowel but wet enough to be workable. It should not be runny or overly stiff.
Step 3: Lay the First Course of Bricks
The first course of bricks is the most important, as it sets the pattern for the entire pillar. Start by spreading a 1-inch thick bed of mortar onto the center of the concrete footing. Firmly press the first brick into the mortar. Apply mortar to one end of the next brick (this is called “buttering”) and press it against the first, leaving a consistent 3/8-inch mortar joint. Continue this process for all bricks in the first course, using leveling tools like a spirit level to ensure the course is perfectly level and square.
Step 4: Build Up the Corners and Check for Plumb
As you begin to build upwards, it is a common bricklaying technique to build the corners up a few courses first. This helps you maintain a straight and level structure. For a simple square pillar, you will be building all four corners simultaneously. After laying each brick, gently tap it into place with the handle of your trowel to ensure it is properly bedded in the mortar. Use your spirit level frequently to check that the pillar walls are perfectly vertical, or “plumb.” Maintaining a plumb line from the very beginning is crucial for structural stability. This is a key part of learning how to build a brick pillar.
Step 5: Continue Laying Subsequent Courses
With the corners established, you can now fill in the bricks between them for each course. The process is the same: spread a bed of mortar, butter the end of the brick, and press it into place, maintaining even 3/8-inch mortar joints. Use a string line stretched taut between the corners as a guide to keep your rows perfectly straight and level. Scrape away any excess mortar that squeezes out of the joints with the edge of your trowel as you work. Continually check your work with your level, both horizontally and vertically.
Step 6: Reinforce the Pillar If Necessary
For taller pillars (over 4 feet) or those that will be supporting a gate or heavy load, adding reinforcement is essential for long-term structural stability. You can do this by filling the hollow core of the pillar with concrete and rebar as you build. After every few courses, insert vertical steel reinforcing bars (rebar) into the hollow center of the pillar, ensuring they are embedded in the concrete footing. As you continue to build, fill the core with a concrete mix. This turns your pillar into a single, incredibly strong monolithic structure.
Step 7: Tool the Mortar Joints for a Professional Finish
Once the mortar has had some time to set and is “thumbprint hard” (firm enough to hold a thumbprint without mortar sticking to your finger), you need to finish the joints. This process, called “tooling” or “pointing,” compacts the mortar and creates a clean, weatherproof seal. Use a brick jointer or a striking tool to press and smooth the mortar joints. A concave joint is the most common and effective for shedding water. This step gives your brickwork a professional, finished appearance and is a critical skill in mastering how to build a brick pillar.
Step 8: Cap the Pillar for Protection and Style
The final step is to add a cap to your pillar. A cap not only provides a decorative finish but also protects the pillar from water damage by shedding rain away from the brick and mortar joints. You can use pre-cast concrete caps, flat stone slabs, or specialized capping bricks. Secure the cap in place with a generous bed of mortar. Ensure the cap has a slight overhang on all sides to allow water to drip clear of the pillar’s face. This finishing touch completes the project and ensures its longevity.
Frequently Asked Questions
How Deep Does the Foundation for a Brick Pillar Need to Be?
The foundation must be deep enough to sit on solid ground and extend below the frost line for your climate. This prevents the ground from heaving during freeze-thaw cycles and cracking your pillar. A general rule is to dig a hole at least 12 inches deep, but in colder climates, you may need to go as deep as 24 to 36 inches. It’s always best to check your local building codes for specific requirements in your area.
What Is the Best Mortar Mix for a Brick Pillar?
A Type N mortar mix is generally recommended for building exterior, above-ground brick pillars. It offers a good balance of strength and flexibility, allowing for minor movements without cracking. You can buy pre-mixed Type N mortar where you just add water, or you can mix your own using a ratio of 1 part Portland cement, 1 part hydrated lime, and 6 parts sand.
Do I Need to Wet the Bricks Before Laying Them?
Wetting the bricks, especially on a hot or windy day, is a good practice. Dry bricks are very porous and can absorb water from the mortar too quickly. This can cause the mortar to dry out before it has time to cure and properly bond to the brick, resulting in a weak joint. To wet them, simply dip each brick in a bucket of water for a few seconds just before you lay it.
How Do I Make Sure My Pillar Is Straight?
Use a spirit level constantly. After laying each brick, check it for level (horizontally) and plumb (vertically). Use the level across the diagonals of your pillar to ensure it is not twisting. For taller pillars, stretching a builder’s line or string line from the bottom corner to the top corner provides a constant visual guide to keep your courses perfectly straight.
Can I Build a Pillar with Used or Reclaimed Bricks?
Yes, you can use reclaimed bricks, and they can add wonderful character. However, you must ensure they are thoroughly cleaned of all old mortar before you use them. Any residual mortar will prevent the new mortar from bonding properly. Use a hammer and a brick chisel or a wire brush to carefully clean each brick. Also, inspect them for cracks or significant damage, as compromised bricks will weaken your pillar.
Conclusion
Successfully learning how to build a brick pillar is a project that delivers immense satisfaction and adds lasting beauty and value to your property. While it demands precision and patience, the process is not beyond the reach of a dedicated DIY enthusiast. By following the fundamental steps of creating a solid foundation, using a proper mortar mix, and consistently checking your work for level and plumb, you can construct a professional-quality structure.
Don’t be intimidated by the idea of masonry. With the right preparation and a methodical approach, you are fully capable of building a handsome and durable brick pillar. Take on the challenge, and enjoy the pride that comes from creating a permanent, impressive feature with your own two hands.