Prepping retaining wall for laying brick?

Approx. 2 1/2 years ago built a 12"H X 50'L retaining wall using 'split face' cinder block, I used rebar to support the retaining wall then filled with cement and leveled. I now want to install brick on top of the wall but after these few years not sure how to prep the surface? I would also appreciated comments/suggestions on the type of mortar I should use?

Thank you! Dave

 

You say on "top", so are you referring to capping it only or will there be vertical walls of bricks? If there will be vertical walls, you would need to install brick ties all along the wall. You would also need a good footing for the brick to sit on. The brick will not adhere to the block as it is just a veneer. They will be stacked on mortar and the ties laid in the mortar bed to keep it from falling away.




This is just to show the veneer effect. Yours would be set on a concrete base.

 

Posting pic's: If possible I would like to prep the surface of the retaining wall and set the bricks on top using the appropriate mortar?

Comments and/or suggestions appreciated.

 

I would give the top of your wall a pressure washing or hosing off and hit it with a stiff bristle brush to make sure it's clean. Then start mortaring on your bricks. Since you are above grade either type S or N mortar should be fine but N is probably more appropriate.

 

It may be overkill, but a good bonding agent wouldn't hurt, either.

 

IMO, a bonding agent is never overkill. I would use a Type N mortar mix.

 

Greatly appreciate suggestions: Considered using a diluted, perhaps 5-10 percent acid type solution for cleaning but if I understand correctly pressure washer and brush should be sufficient.

Not aware Mortar comes in types; S-M-N, now informed and know what to ask for. In browsing 'big box' hardware catalog came across product referred to as ' admix' but I assume sales person can advise if appropriate mortar bonding agent.

http://www.homedepot.com/catalog/pro...7340a_1000.jpg

Again, can not thank enough for the suggestions, found it very helpful!!

 

No that is for thinset. Tile setting material. SikaLatex 1-Gal. Concrete Bonding Adhesive and Acrylic Fortifier-187782 - The Home Depot

 

This is great-I thank you!!

 

Home Depot doesn't sell Type N mortar. At least the HD near me doesn't. Also, the workers who work in the dept that sells building materials, know the least compared to other depts.

 

Yes, regardless of which building materials store I shop, find the sales persons may be working in the building materials department 1 day, tools the next, and nursery the next. With the suggestions from DIY member's I can now shop with some confidence. Although not that knowledgeable Lowes Home Improvement Stores appear to carry products more suited for professionals and 'Do It Myselfer's', at least a step above local hardware stores?

Sorry to be a nuisance, posting couple pic's of 2 products I will be looking at, may consider going with a white mortar but not if jeopardizes the end product? ?

Again, can not thank U's all enough!!

Shop QUIKRETE 60-lb Gray Type-N Mortar Mix at Lowes.com

http://images.lowes.com/product/conv...3886001069.jpg

 

Both of those products are okay.