Okay, folks, let’s dive into my little weekend project: building a brick wall behind my wood stove. I’ve been wanting to do this for ages, not just for the looks, but also for a bit of extra heat retention. Here’s how the whole thing went down:
First things first, I needed a plan. I sketched out roughly what I wanted – a simple, straight wall, not too high, just enough to cover the area directly behind the stove and a bit to the sides. I measured the space, making sure to account for the stovepipe and the required clearances (very important!).
Gathering Supplies
Next up, a trip to the home improvement store. I grabbed a bunch of bricks – I went with a classic red brick, nothing fancy. I also picked up mortar mix, a trowel, a level, a sponge, and some heavy-duty gloves. I already had a mixing bucket and a shovel, so I was good there.
Prep Work
Before I started stacking bricks, I prepped the area. I laid down a drop cloth to protect the floor. Then, I used some painter’s tape to mark out the outline of the wall on the floor and the existing wall, just to give me a visual guide. This part is crucial for keeping things straight!
Mixing the Mortar
Mixing the mortar was… well, messy. I followed the instructions on the bag, adding water slowly until I got a consistency like peanut butter – thick, but spreadable. You don’t want it too runny, or it won’t hold the bricks, and you don’t want it too dry, or it’ll be impossible to work with.
Laying the First Course
This was the most nerve-wracking part. I spread a layer of mortar on the floor where my first row of bricks would go. Then, I carefully placed the first brick, pressing it down firmly and checking it with the level. I kept adding bricks, one by one, buttering the ends with mortar before placing them next to each other. I used the level constantly, both horizontally and vertically, to make sure everything was straight and even.
- Spread mortar on the floor.
- Place the first brick.
- Check with level, horizontally and vertically.
- Continue to add bricks.
Building Up the Wall
Once the first course was down, the rest was… not exactly easy, but definitely less stressful. I just kept repeating the process: spread mortar, place brick, check level, adjust as needed. I made sure to stagger the joints – you know, like a classic brick wall – for stability and looks.
Important Tip: Every few rows, I used a damp sponge to clean off any excess mortar that squeezed out. This makes the finished wall look much neater.
Dealing with the Stovepipe
I got it, and after double check with the clearances, i continue to build the brick to the top.
Letting it Dry
Once the wall was built, I let it dry for a full 48 hours,I resisted the urge to touch it or mess with it. The mortar needs time to cure and harden properly.
The Finished Product
And there you have it! My very own brick wall, built with my own two hands. It’s not perfect, there are a few wonky spots, but I’m pretty darn proud of it. It adds a nice rustic touch to the room, and I’m hoping it’ll help keep things a bit warmer this winter. It’s a satisfying feeling, taking on a project like this and seeing it through to completion.
If anyone’s thinking about doing something similar,I do it, Just take your time, plan it out, and don’t be afraid to get your hands dirty!
