How to Build a House Concrete Block House Step by Step

Want to see how a concrete block house is built step by step? This guide shows the basic process using a real house construction project in Jamaica.

In the video below, you can watch the actual block-laying process, including how the mason uses mortar, a string line, and a level to keep the wall straight and properly aligned.

How to Build a Concrete Block House

Building a concrete block house is a step-by-step process. The walls are built one course at a time using concrete blocks and mortar, while the mason constantly checks that everything stays straight, level, and properly tied together.

The project shown here was filmed in Spanish Town, Jamaica, where concrete block construction is commonly used for residential homes.

Step 1: Start With a Proper Foundation

Before any blocks are laid, the house needs a properly prepared foundation.

The foundation supports the weight of the building and provides the base for the walls. The correct type of foundation depends on the building plans, soil conditions, local requirements, and structural design.

Once the foundation is ready, the mason can begin laying the first row of concrete blocks.

Step 2: Mix Mortar for the Concrete Blocks

Mortar is used to bond the blocks together.

Basic mortar is generally made using:

• Cement
• Sand
• Water

The materials are mixed until the mortar reaches a workable consistency.

The mason spreads the mortar onto the surface before placing each block into position.

Step 3: Lay the First Course of Blocks

The first row of blocks is one of the most important parts of the wall.

If the bottom row is not straight or level, the problem can become more noticeable as the wall gets higher.

Each concrete block is placed carefully and adjusted before the mason moves on to the next one.

How to Build a House

Step 4: Use a String Line

In the video, you can see the mason using a string line to guide the wall.

The string line helps keep the blocks aligned in a straight row.

As the mason moves along the wall, he checks each block against the line and makes small adjustments when necessary.

Step 5: Check the Wall With a Level

A mason’s level is also used throughout the process.

The level helps check whether the blocks are sitting correctly and whether the wall is staying plumb as it gets higher.

Good block laying requires constant checking. A skilled mason does not simply place the blocks and move on.

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Step 6: Stagger the Concrete Blocks

Concrete blocks are normally staggered from one row to the next.

This means the vertical joints are not placed directly above each other all the way up the wall.

Instead, the blocks overlap the joints below them.

This bonded pattern helps tie the wall together.

Step 7: Reinforcing Steel

Reinforcing steel is also an important part of many concrete block houses.

Depending on the building design, steel reinforcement may be used vertically and horizontally throughout the structure.

The exact size, spacing, and placement of the reinforcing steel should follow the approved building and engineering plans.

Steel reinforcement can work together with concrete and masonry to improve the strength of the structure.

Step 8: Continue Building the Wall

Once one row is completed, the mason continues building upward.

For each new row, the same basic process continues:

• Apply mortar
• Place the concrete blocks
• Check the string line
• Check the level
• Maintain proper spacing
• Stagger the joints

This continues until the wall reaches the required height shown on the building plans.

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Concrete Block House Building Materials

A concrete block house may require several different construction materials.

• Concrete blocks
• Cement
• Sand
• Gravel
• Water
• Reinforcing steel
• Formwork materials

Cement, sand, and water can be mixed to make mortar for laying the blocks.

Cement, sand, gravel, and water are commonly mixed together to make concrete.

Concrete Blocks vs. Cinder Blocks

Many people search for both concrete block house and cinder block house.

The terms are often used interchangeably in everyday conversation, but most modern building blocks are concrete masonry units rather than the older cinder-based blocks.

You may also hear these blocks called CMUs, building blocks, concrete blocks, or simply blocks.

Building a House in Jamaica

This house construction project was filmed in Spanish Town, Jamaica.

Concrete and masonry construction are widely used in Jamaica and throughout the Caribbean.

Building practices can vary from country to country, so local building codes, approved plans, engineering requirements, and qualified construction professionals should always be followed.

Why Concrete Block Houses Are Popular

Concrete block construction can offer several advantages when the building is properly designed and built.

• Durable wall construction
• Good fire resistance
• Resistance to termite damage compared with wood framing
• Long service life
• Compatibility with reinforced concrete construction

The quality of the finished house still depends on the design, workmanship, materials, reinforcement, and maintenance.

Is Laying Concrete Blocks Easy?

Experienced masons can make block laying look easy, but it takes skill and practice.

The mason must control the alignment, level, joint thickness, corners, wall openings, reinforcement, and connections between different parts of the building.

Small errors can grow into larger problems as the wall gets higher.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is used to hold concrete blocks together?

Concrete blocks are normally bonded together with mortar made from cement, sand, and water.

Why do masons use a string line?

A string line helps keep each row of concrete blocks straight and properly aligned.

Why are concrete blocks staggered?

Staggering the blocks creates overlapping joints and helps tie the wall together.

Is a cinder block house the same as a concrete block house?

The terms are often used interchangeably, although modern construction blocks are usually concrete masonry units.

Can someone build a concrete block house themselves?

Some people may be able to perform parts of the work, but a complete house involves structural, electrical, plumbing, permitting, and safety requirements. Approved plans and qualified professionals should be used where required.

Final Thoughts

Building a concrete block house is a process that requires careful work from the foundation all the way to the completed walls.

The mason uses mortar, concrete blocks, a string line, and a level to build each row correctly. Reinforcing steel and concrete may also be used throughout the structure according to the building design.

The video above gives you a real look at how this work is done on a house construction project in Jamaica.

If you found the video helpful, watch the full construction process, leave a comment, and subscribe for more building and construction videos.