Ensuring proper drainage when bricklaying is essential for preventing water buildup and potential damage to the structure. Here are some ways to achieve proper drainage:

1. **Slope the base**: Ensure that the base or foundation of the brick structure is sloped away from the building or in the direction of desired drainage. This helps direct water away from the structure and prevents pooling around the base of the wall.

2. **Use weep holes**: Incorporate weep holes at regular intervals along the base of the wall or at the lowest points to allow for drainage of any water that collects within the wall cavity. Weep holes should be located above ground level and spaced according to local building codes or best practices.

3. **Install flashing**: Use flashing, such as drip edges or through-wall flashing, where the brickwork meets other building materials or surfaces, such as windows, doors, or roofs. Flashing helps divert water away from vulnerable areas and prevents moisture infiltration into the structure.

4. **Include cavity walls**: Constructing cavity walls with an air gap between the inner and outer layers of brickwork allows for drainage and ventilation within the wall cavity. This helps prevent moisture buildup and promotes airflow to facilitate drying.

5. **Proper mortar joints**: Use mortar joints with a slight slope or concave profile to encourage water runoff and prevent water from collecting within the joints. Ensure that mortar joints are properly compacted and sealed to minimize water penetration.

6. **Surface treatments**: Apply water-repellent coatings or sealants to the surface of the brickwork to reduce water absorption and increase resistance to moisture penetration. Be sure to choose a product specifically designed for use with masonry materials and follow the manufacturer's instructions for application.

7. **Grading and landscaping**: Ensure that the surrounding landscape is properly graded to slope away from the building and promote surface water drainage. Install drainage features such as swales, French drains, or gutter systems to divert water away from the structure and prevent it from pooling near the foundation.

By incorporating these drainage strategies into your bricklaying project, you can help ensure that water is effectively managed and directed away from the structure, reducing the risk of water damage and prolonging the lifespan of the brickwork.