Brick masonry

is a construction method that utilizes bricks and mortar to form a unified architectural
structure such as walls and arches; it is also the term used to refer to the brick structure itself.
Bricks are formed in a pattern and held together by mortar that acts as an adhesive. The
integrity of a brick masonry work depends on the following: the type of brick and mortar used,
and the skill of a masonry worker.

Here are the common brick masonry tools and equipment used

SQUARES

Squares are used when constructing and measuring right angles and for corner
layouts. Square device consisting of two straightedges set at right angles to each
other. It is used by carpenters and machinists for checking the correctness of right
angles, as a guide when drawing lines on materials before cutting, or for locating
holes. They are usually made of metal for durability.

MASON’S LEVEL

A mason’s level is used when establishing vertical or plumb lines and

horizontal or level lines. They are typically made of wood, metal, or a
combination of both. They come equipped with either single or double vials.
The latter is preferred by more masons since they can be used for both
horizontal and vertical measurements.

STRAIGHT EDGE

Straightedges act as extensors to mason’s levels: they are used when levels are
shorter than the area that needs to be measured or assessed. The middle section
of the top of the straightedge must be horizontally parallel to the bottom section.
Widths of these tools range from 1 1/8 to 1 1/2 inches; they can be as long as 16
feet.
MEASURING TAPE

A tape measure or measuring tape is a flexible ruler and used to measure

distance. It consists of ribbon of cloth, plastic, fiber glass, or metal strip with
linear-measurement markings. It is a common measuring tool. Its design allows
for a measure of great length to be easily carried in pocket or toolkit and permits
one to measure around curves or corners.

How to read Tape Measure:

1. Find/read the markings. On a standard tape measure, the biggest marking is the inch mark (which
generally has the biggest number, if it has them).
2. As the increments decrease, so does the length of the mark
3. Read 1 inch
4. Read one-half inch
5. The remaining markings follow a similar pattern

MASON’S RULER

The brick mason's ruler is a folding ruler that folds at about 8-inch increments.
According to the Construction Zone website, folding rulers were the most
common ruler used before the invention of the measuring tape. Measure the
brick on the inches side of the ruler. When measuring the brick, include the
mortar in the measurement. For example, a brick that is 2 inches thick
combined with a mortar that is 1/2 inch thick has a total thickness of 2 1/2
inches thick.