Presented in a straightforward and highly readable style, these two volumes offer an in-depth guide to all aspects of brickwork and bricklaying practice. Gerard Lynch has put together these comprehensive and instructive volumes linking past knowledge and practices with modern skills and materials, so that both can be fully examined and understood. Volume 1 begins with a background to the historical development of the brick, the craft of bricklaying and of brickwork from the 13th century to the present day. It then goes on to describe the modern manufacture of bricks along with their properties and classification. The book also includes chapters on mortars, tools and accessories and an explanation of bricklaying skills and comprehensive coverage of the techniques of bonding and its applications. Volume 2 examines the elements of building construction in brick. Chapter one studies the setting out of a small building and then progresses to foundations, examining the historical as well as current practices. The following five chapters cover both the contemporary and traditional aspects of substructure brickwork; basements; sleeper walls; damp proof courses; and, cavity walling and jointing and pointing. The volume concludes with useful advice on achieving controlled and efficient bricklaying.