A wall's quality is decided course by course. A spirit level, a plumb line and a tape catch most problems while they are still easy to fix.
Checklist
| Check | Tool | Good result |
|---|---|---|
| Line | String line | Wall on the drawn line |
| Plumb | Plumb bob or level | Vertical within a few mm |
| Level | Spirit level | Each course level |
| Bond | Eye | Vertical joints staggered |
| Joint thickness | Tape | ~10 mm brick; 2–4 mm AAC |
| Ties | Eye | Ties or mesh into columns every few courses |
| Openings | Tape | Correct size; lintel bearing on both sides |
| Top course | Eye | Gap or flexible joint under beams (AAC) |
| Daily height | — | Not built too high in one day in mortar |
The First Course Matters Most
The first course sets level and line for every course above. For AAC, it is laid in mortar on the plinth or slab to level out irregularities; every later course in thin adhesive depends on it.
The Short Version
Line, plumb, level, staggered joints, the right joint thickness, ties, lintels and a proper top course — checked as the wall goes up, starting with the first course.
