set footing

Step-by-Step

Dig a footing that is 2 inches longer than the wall, twice the width of the wall, and as deep as the frost line in your area. Form the edge of the footing with 2x4s (see Building Forms for Wall Footings, Related Projects) or let your hole act as the form. Pour concrete to just below grade. Allow the concrete to cure for several days.

Snap chalk lines along the footing to define the perimeter of the wall, which should be centered on the footing. Lay the bricks, using the same techniques as for a veneer wall (see Laying Single-Tier Brick Veneer, Related Projects), checking for plumb, level, and alignment as you work. As you set the bricks in two rows together, embed corrugated metal brick ties in the mortar about every 12 inches in every third or fourth course.

headers

Once the wall reaches the desired height, cap it off with a header. You can use header bricks laid flat or formed concrete headers, as shown here, or row-lock headers (See Laying Single-Tier Brick Veneer, Related Projects), flagstones, or limestone block. Slope the headers slightly to allow for drainage.