Steps of applying cement mortar

For brick masonry or plaster, cement mortar is applied as follows:

1. Prepare the surface: clean the bricks or wall surface of dust and loose material, and wet the bricks (soak them for at least 2 hours) so they do not draw water from the mortar. For plaster, rake the joints 10-12 mm deep and wet the wall.
2. Prepare the mortar in the required ratio (1:4 or 1:6) and use it within 30 minutes.
3. Spread a mortar bed about 10-12 mm thick with a trowel over the lower course.
4. Place the brick (frog up) with firm pressure, tap it to level, and fill the frog and the vertical joints with mortar.
5. Check line, level and plumb for each course; remove excess mortar from the joints.
6. Finish the joints: point or strike them neatly.
7. Plaster: apply a first coat (about 12 mm), then a finishing coat (6-8 mm), and level it with a straight edge and float.
8. Cure with water for 7-10 days.