CONCRETE BLOCK FOUNDATION DESIGN UPDATE

Using the chalk line as a reference, the guys laid a bed of mortar and began laying block.Įach block was checked for level and that it followed the string. Pro-Talk: The bracket for securing a string is called a dogbone or line-stretcher.Īt times they also used a wooden corner block. Once the corners were in place, Victor’s crew would run a string along the top corner of the block and use that as a guide for the rest of that section. Often, the guys would run a long metal beam with a level on top (not pictured) to check that the corners were in line with each other. If you look closely, you’ll notice the corner blocks are slightly different with a finished outside corner. For that reason it was really important that the corners be perfect because they act as a reference for the rest of that section of wall. Pro-Tip: Concrete blocks measure 8″ x 16″ including the joint.Īfter the guys cleaned the footer with a foxtail brush, they would strike a chalk line.įor each section, Victor’s crew would start at the corners and work their way into the middle. Next, they would mark out each section and calculate the number of blocks per section. Pro-Tip: Wet the tubs before adding the mortar to help prevent it from drying out.įrom the blueprints, Victor and his crew determined the location of the foundation walls. Then they would shovel the cement in to large tubs for the block layers.

The guys used a gas-powered mixer to mix sand, water and type-S masonry cement. Here’s how everything looked after the concrete cured and a little bit of rain. If you missed it, read up on how Victor’s team dug the footers, laid rebar and poured the footers at those links.

If you remember, Steve brought in Victor and his team from Luciano Cristofaro Contractors to build the foundation, and today’s article shares how they built the block wall foundation.

CONCRETE BLOCK FOUNDATION DESIGN UPDATE

It’s time for another Pro-Follow update as we follow along with contractor Steve Wartman and his crew.

Concrete block foundation design