EVERYTHING ABOUT BRICKS

Bricks are essential materials for any building project and come in various types that serve different purposes. We’ve put together a guide on types of bricks and their characteristics.

Bricks add aesthetic value to a building or outdoor construction. Depending on their characteristics, bricks can help a building’s insulation and longevity.

Brick Properties

There are several aspects to consider when choosing bricks for a project. Depending on the purpose, one might consider the aesthetics of the building, the weather resistance, or load-bearing properties. The main properties of bricks are:

• - Strength
• - Colour
• - Size
• - Durability
• - Absorption

Strength

This is an essential property for load-bearing bricks. For a building of up to two storeys high clay bricks should have a minimum compressive strength of 9N/mm². Anything higher requires a minimum of 13N/mm².

Colour

While the most common colour for facing bricks is red, there is a wide variety of colours available to accommodate aesthetic requirements.

Size

The standard UK brick size is 20cm X 9.5cm X 5.5cm, but sizes vary across the world.

Durability

Bricks have high manufacturing standards, making them last even hundreds of years.

Absorption

Water absorption represents the quantity of water that can be retained by a brick, calculated in a percentage of its total weight. The absorption percentage of building bricks should be under 25%.

Types of Bricks

The main types of bricks:

1. Facing bricks

They are primarily selected for their aesthetic qualities as they cover the external walls of buildings. The fire, water, and damage resistance are also an important factor.

2. Engineering bricks

These bricks are used for their physical attributes rather than appearance. They have high compressive strength and low water absorption.

3. Reclaimed bricks

These bricks have already been used and are now recycled for another purpose. Reclaimed bricks can make a building project more environmentally friendly.

How to Choose the Right Type of Brick

If you are looking to cover external walls, decorate interior walls, build garden walls or fireplaces, facing bricks are ideal for these types of projects.

When load-bearing and water resistance is the main consideration factor rather than aesthetics, engineering bricks are recommended. Some of the applications of engineering bricks include manholes, damp proofs, sewers, retaining walls, and general groundwork.

In terms of brick colour, your options might be limited by the materials used in your local area. Make sure you contact your local planners to get planning permission at the beginning of your project.

Matching Bricks

If you are looking to start an extension project, you might consider matching the new bricks to the existing. While the old bricks will have been weathered or not be available on the market anymore, you can still get a close match. Lords Builders Merchants have a brick matching service and can source bricks in similar shape, size, and colour.

Need Help?

Most of our branches have a brick library you can check to help make your decision. We stock a wide range of bricks and are able to provide brick matching service. If you need advice on how to choose the best bricks for your project, don’t hesitate to get in touch with our knowledgeable team.