bricky tool

[h12rpo]

Has anyone used one of these ? Comments ? Thinking of getting one with my last attempt at laying bricks being somewhat less than aesthetically pleasing

[bookemdanno]

Not used one, but they look a good idea for someone who's got a few bricks to lay, want a good result and will never really do a lot more bricklaying. I think if you use one, you'll never really then get the "feel". I'm also not sure how they work with more rustic bricks, that are off square and less perfect.
I pretty much trained myself through repetition of motion, and going for it. If it didn't look right, then i'd take it down whilst the mortar was green, and do it again.
You get an eye/feel for it, and a judgement of how much mortar, the mix, cutting mortar off the face, pointing, etc, etc.

[DuncanM]

I have a bricky and I must say I found it incredibly useful. Will it replace the ability to master the art of brick laying? No. Did it help a novice brick layer neaten up and more importantly speed up bricklaying? A resounding yes.

Unfortunately I didn't build up my brick work and block work at the same time, combined with a relatively small gap between block work and brick work (only maybe 1-2 inches) and it meant there wasn't enough room to use it because of the thickness of the sides (one is smaller than the other mind). I used this predominantly on the brickwork for my countertop which can be seen here:


And not on the oven (again because of the thickness issue).

Also bearing in mind I had 100+ year old bricks that were at best, shaped like bananas and with no frog which made tapping down difficult if I applied too much mortar.

Would I use it again with any brick laying? Definitely.

Also if you are not confident with the mortar I can suggest buying a bag of pre-mixed mortar. It'll come with specific instructions for water (4L if I remember correctly) this way you can make 1 bag up, get a feel for what consistency / water it should have, then simply make your own for cheaper.

good luck!

[scottme]

I bought one, and had a good go with it. The theory is fine, but in practice overall I don't think it was much of a help, and I'd certainly not bother with it on any future bricklaying projects. The worst aspect was cleaning it off after use.

It wasn't a write-off though. The video was useful, if only to see what consistency of mortar I should be aiming for! The trowel and line that came with it got some good use, and the pointing tool was excellent, until it wore away

So mine is languishing in the garage and will most likely be heading for the tip sometime. If anyone wants it and can be bothered to collect it from NE Hampshire, drop me a PM and we'll sort something out.

[h12rpo]

Would it cost much to post ? I wouldnt mind saving the landfill :-)