Brick Ledge

If you are building your own home, then you probably know that installing a brick ledge during the foundation stage of construction is one of the requirements which you will incur. This section is to teach you about the brick ledge and the checklist for ensuring the brick ledge is done properly.

Typically, the brick ledge (form float) is after the post tension cable installation. The formsetter is typically responsible for setting float (brick ledge) boards in the required areas of the foundation, such as the entry, the brick ledge, raised entries, dropped areas, and garage floor slopes. The form setter will either close the form at the garage trough before cable installation, or secure the cable dead ends (with 20D nails) at the garage trough afterwards.

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Brick Ledge Installation Checklist

• Check to ensure that all chances have been made according to any special plan alterations you might have made during construction. Check for the changes which might have altered slab dimensions and design, brick ledge locations, stone ledge locations, etc.
• Compare the foundation plan to the floor plan. Reconfirm all plan and elevation dimensions match. Ensure where plan elevations show brick, the foundation plan shows a brickledge.
• Order a form board survey to be completed prior to slab placement.
• Ensure that brickledge is of proper length and location (Compare the foundation plan to the floor plan; e.g. check along exterior side walls where brick ledge ends at/near windows and doors)
• Check dimensions and locations of raised areas of brickledge.
• Check dimensions and location of dropped areas of brickledge.
• Check the dimension of the entry. Make sure the entry slopes to the front. If the entry is to receive brick instead of siding, ensure the dimensions allow for the added brick ledge.
• Ensure the rear door is formed per plan. Patio doors (if applicable) must be properly sized, located and blocked out from the slab 1 1/2 inches.
• Mark location of rear entry door on brick ledge formboards to preclue the setting of a mudsill anchor strap to the threshold.
• Check all float boards for secure installation, as well as level and square. Orient wane with poor side facing up.
• Recheck all brickledge form boards for squareness. Use the 6, 8, 10 rule or pull diagonals.
• Verify that all forms are level. Check all turns (i.e., corners and angles) in the slab.
• Check the bottom of the brick ledge form boards for proper underpinning
• Confirm that fireplaces on exterior walls are dropped 1 1/2″ to restrict water intrusion from occuring at finished slab height.
• Confirm the dimensions of garage door openings. Verify elevation differences. (i.e. two single doors = 17’6″ opening and one double door = 16’3″ opening – typical [not always - check your plans!])
• Ensure that the garage floor slopes a minimum of 2 inches toward the front.