How to Lay Bricks On a House Foundation Over Stucco

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Things You'll Need

  • Shovel

  • Power washer

  • Paint scraper

  • Flashing strips

  • Screws

  • Metal wall ties

  • Nails

  • Brick mortar

  • Masonry trowel

  • 1/4-inch rubber hose

  • Level

Brick veneer attaches over top of stucco.
Image Credit: Jupiterimages/Photos.com/Getty Images

Change the look in the front of your home by installing a brick veneer over the stucco finish on the foundation surface. Brick veneer is lighter and thinner than regular brick, making it an ideal choice when attaching directly to a stucco surface. A brick upgrade might increase the value of your home and is a simple project that most people are able to finish in a weekend.

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Step 1

Dig about 6 inches of soil away from the foundation so you can access the area. Spray the foundation and stucco finish with a power washer to remove dirt and debris that will prevent the brick from sticking properly. Let the foundation dry completely.

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Step 2

Inspect the stucco to make sure there are no loose or damaged areas. Scrape loose stucco with a paint scraper or putty knife to remove it from the surface.

Step 3

Attach flashing strips along the bottom edge of the foundation by screwing them through the stucco and into the concrete underneath to prevent a gap where water can seep between the brick and stucco.

Step 4

Install metal wall ties by nailing them in a staggered arrangement about 2 to 3 feet apart to support the veneer bricks.

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Step 5

Spread mortar in a 1-inch layer over the stucco with a masonry trowel, covering only a 2-foot area at time. Attach brick at the top of the foundation and work in a downward pattern by pressing them into place. Stagger the brick veneer so the vertical edges are not in a straight line.

Step 6

Stick a 2-inch-long piece of rubber hose every 2 feet along the center of the brick installation area so there are drainage holes to prevent water buildup behind the bricks.

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Step 7

Check the top edge of the foundation brick with a level every 2 feet to verify you are installing it straight.

Step 8

Install brick veneer around window in a vertical pattern, instead of horizontal, to create a framed edge.

Step 9

Pull out the rubber hoses after the mortar is completely dried, about two to five days after installation.

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