Choosing the Right Brick for Your Construction Project
Once the decision is made to incorporate bricks into your project, the subsequent step involves identifying the specific type of brick to utilize. Some brick varieties are engineered for superior structural integrity, while others are primarily chosen for their visual appeal. However, pinpointing the perfect match for your requirements can indeed be challenging.
While bricks might appear unassuming and straightforward, when employed effectively, they can exude an undeniable elegance. To gain insight into the various brick types and their potential applications, continue reading.
Fundamental Brick Classifications
The methods for categorizing bricks are almost as numerous as the brick types themselves. Yet, when classifying them based on their placement within a structure, only two primary distinctions are essential to remember: facing bricks and backing bricks.
Facing bricks are applied to the exterior of buildings, necessitating a robust durability to withstand rain, storms, and other adverse weather conditions.
Backing bricks, conversely, are positioned behind facing bricks. Therefore, while facing bricks must possess at least a moderate level of aesthetic appeal, the appearance of backing bricks is largely inconsequential.
When discussing brick types used in construction, it’s highly probable that conversations will classify bricks based on their raw materials. In such instances, familiarizing yourself with five fundamental types is beneficial.
Burnt Clay Bricks
Burnt clay bricks are produced by shaping wet clay into molds and then firing them at high temperatures in a kiln.
These bricks can be likened to plain bread: they are exceptionally versatile and can be employed in a multitude of ways, even if they aren’t the most visually striking bricks available. Due to their widespread popularity and frequent use, it’s difficult to discuss brick masonry without referencing burnt clay varieties.
There are four distinct classes of burnt clay bricks, with the first-class offering the highest quality and greatest strength. Premium-grade burnt clay bricks are free from noticeable imperfections, though they also come at a higher cost.
Searching for an adaptable clay brick for your patio? Consider red paved bricks for a sophisticated look that never goes out of style.
Concrete Bricks
If you’re seeking a robust brick for your fence or facade, concrete bricks are worth considering. While their aesthetic quality may not be paramount, they are effective at insulating against heat and reducing sound transmission.
Concrete bricks are not always the most popular choice, perhaps due to their somewhat stark visual aesthetic. However, if you desire this type of brick without the typical gray hue, you have the option to select a different pigment during the manufacturing process.
Sand Lime Bricks
Sand lime bricks are a composite of sand, lime, and fly ash. These materials are bonded through a chemical reaction that occurs during their wet mixing phase.
If you require a brick capable of supporting significant loads, these are an excellent choice. They are celebrated for their exceptional load-bearing capacity.
Engineering Bricks
Engineering bricks are built to endure intense conditions, as they are manufactured using incredibly high temperatures, which imparts a high density to them.
As their name suggests, engineering bricks are most effective for civil engineering applications. For example, they are commonly utilized in projects such as sewers, manholes, and retaining walls.
Fly Ash Clay Bricks
By molding fly ash and clay together and subjecting them to extremely high temperatures, fly ash clay bricks are formed. These bricks exhibit lower porosity compared to burnt clay bricks.
Fly ash is a byproduct of power plants that rely on coal. It may seem counterintuitive, but the production of fly ash bricks can actually be more environmentally beneficial than other types of brick manufacturing, already contributing to carbon emission reductions in India.
Need Assistance Choosing the Right Brick?
If you’re still uncertain about which type of brick is best suited for your project, we are here to assist. We offer a comprehensive selection of residential bricks in a diverse range of colors and styles. Furthermore, as a family-owned business, we proudly supply bricks to builders of all skill levels across New Berlin, Milwaukee, and throughout southeastern Wisconsin. This means we’re delighted to discuss the various brick types we stock, their applications, and much more!
Ready to talk about your next project? Contact us today.