When laying bricks, nothing is more important than keeping your wall straight, level, and neat. The simplest tool to achieve this is the bricklayer’s line (string line). It acts as a visual guide to make sure every brick is placed exactly where it should be.
Here’s how to use the line correctly:
1. Set Up the Line
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Fix two strong wooden pegs or corner posts at each end of your wall.
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Tie the string tightly between them at the height of your first brick course.
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Make sure the line is straight and taut, with no sagging.
2. Position the Line on the Bricks
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Rest the line just above the bricks, not touching the mortar.
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It should be close enough for guidance, but not so close that the trowel or bricks disturb it.
3. Lay Bricks Against the Line
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Place each brick so its top edge is level with the string.
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Adjust by tapping lightly with the trowel handle until aligned.
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Always check with a spirit level for accuracy.
4. Move the Line Up for Each Course
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Once a row (course) is finished, move the string line up to the next level.
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Keep joints even—typically around 10mm thick.
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Re-tighten the line every time to prevent sagging.
5. Check for Straightness Often
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Step back and sight along the line to see if your wall is running straight.
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Make small corrections as you go rather than waiting until it’s too late.
6. Avoid Common Mistakes
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Don’t let the bricks touch the line—it can push it out of place.
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Don’t pull too hard—this can bow the corner posts.
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Don’t ignore sagging—always keep it tight.