Everything you need to know about finding a Bricklayer

Adding an extension onto your existing home is a great way of adding functionality and value to your property. This may be driven by the need for an extra room for your growing family, or the desire to have more space set aside for entertaining or relaxing, such as the addition of a conservatory. An extension is also often more cost effective than moving or upgrading, which is an important consideration when budgeting.

Bricklaying is a skilled trade and is usually governed by a trade body which offers accreditation. Bricklayers undertake a number of tasks besides laying bricks and mortar. This includes sealing foundations against damp, cutting and shaping bricks, constructing customised ornamental features as well the repair and maintenance of clay brick structures.

Planning is crucial when adding an extension to your home. This includes deciding exactly where the extension is going to best serve your needs. This may be an additional room or wing on your ground floor, or a complete second storey. Follow these guidelines to ensure a trouble free experience:

• consider the disruption of building work to your home and family
• consult a building inspector for advice on the feasibility of your plans
• familiarise yourself with the building code
• choose a reputable builder and/or architect to manage the project
• plan the location of the extension with your builder, building inspector and/or architect
• budget your build carefully
• apply for approval from your local council and obtain a building permit for extensions
• brief your neighbours about your plans
• ensure any brickwork on the extension match those of your original building. This also applies to the roofing.

Make sure your tradesperson is qualified and accredited before embarking on building an extension to your home. You can either employ a bricklayer directly or more commonly, a builder will have a number in their employ, and will manage them throughout the project. The latter is often the simpler option. Builders and tradespeople should be covered by workers compensation and be in possession of public liability insurance.