The most clever of the three little pigs built himself a house of bricks. It was a strong house that kept out the wind, including all of the huffing and puffing from the big, bad wolf.

True to the story, many brick homes have outlasted houses constructed with other materials. Thus, as children we learned that brick is a superior building product. By extension, we can also learn that the more time, planning and resources we put into a project the better the finished product.

Time needs to be spent researching brick options. You also need to do your homework when it comes to hiring the right mason.

Brick Design and Style

Brick color, design and pattern bond are considerations that will impact the look of your home. Some of the standard pattern bonds to choose from are: American or common, English, English cross or Dutch bond, Flemish, running, and stack.

Kinds of Brick

Brick Mortar Joint Finishes

When you are deciding on a mortar finish for your brick there are nine common joint finishes to choose from. The various textural effects will leave a huge imprint on your home's final appearance. The weatherability, or ability to endure or resist exposure to the elements, will also be determined by the type of joint finish.

The various joint options are showcased on the left side of the following diagrams.

Mortar Strength

Mortar strength is determined by flexibility, bond strength and compressive strength. The MSNOK mortar types are:

• Type M - Type M is the strongest mortar with a compressive strength of 2500 psi or better. Its strength and durability makes it ideal for retaining walls, load bearing walls, chimneys, foundations, patios and driveways.
• Type S - Type S has a fairly high compressive strength of 1800 psi. The tensile or flexural strength of type S mortar is its hallmark feature. It is used below grade and at ground level because of its capacity to withstand wind, seismic activity and soil pressure.
• Type N - Type N has a medium compressive strength of around 750 psi. It is the preferred mortar for above grade exterior brick walls that would be subject to extreme weather conditions.
• Type O - Type O is a low compressive-strength mortar having a rating of only 350 psi. It is generally used for interior brick work, non load bearing walls and limited exterior applications.
• Type K - Type K has a very low compressive strength of just 75 psi. It is used exclusively for preservation of historic brick.

Additionally, there are two other uncommon mortar types. They are straight lime mortar, called "L mortar", and glass block mortar.

Hiring a Bricklayer

In order to hire the right bricklayer compare the quotes or prices of several bricklayers. Most often a mason, or bricklayer, will charge a per brick price. However, some charge by the square foot, by the hour or by the job.

Ask homeowners in your area that have recently had similar masonry or stonework done. See how your quotes compare and what suggestions they may have, based on their recent experience.

Check out the references that the masonry contractors provide for you. If possible, visit one of their recently completed brick homes, one similar to your own, as a sampling of their workmanship. Expect to pay more for experience and skill. Sometimes what you save in hiring a cheap bricklayer, you'll pay for in quality. You may even have to hire someone to fix or finish the job.