concrete-construction-tips

Each category of brick may look similar, or even exactly the same, but there are quite big differences between them…

1) Common Bricks

These bricks can be used for most purposes, and are the most often used. They are of a lower quality than other types of bricks, but tend to be cheaper too. The only major restriction on them is that they cannot be used below ground level. Other than that, you can pretty much use them however you want to.

2) Engineering Bricks

These bricks are made to be tough and resolute, and an elaborate special process must be followed to manufacture them. Their low rate of water absorption means that they are ideal for using outside and in damp climates. Engineering bricks can be used underground and are often laid as a damp proof course.

3) Facing Bricks

These bricks are the ‘face’ of a building, meaning that they are what you see when you look at most buildings. Being on the outside, they are constantly exposed to the elements, and so are manufactured in way that makes them very strong and durable. There are various sub-categories of facing bricks, with each variant being tailored to meet the demands and conditions of the location where it will be used.

4) Special Bricks

Special bricks are so called because they are made to fulfill a specific task, such as finishing off the top of a wall. Brick companies can make a brick into almost any shape you like as long as you are prepared to pay for it. You can also normally get them made in whatever color you want, and have effects, such as aging or polished, applied to them.

5) Concrete Blocks

Not a brick as such, but concrete blocks are an alternative that can be used to get the same result. Plain concrete blocks can be used when a wall is to be rendered and / or painted, trench blocks are a good and cost-saving choice for foundation courses, and ‘Thermalite’ blocks can be easily shaped into whatever form you want. If you need a stylish finish, then they are widely available with a natural stone look.

As which type of brick is best to use, there is no single answer, as it depends on what you are building and the location you are building it. If you are unsure about which ones to use, then ask for advice from an employee at your local brick merchant. With their vast experience, they will be able to tell you exactly which bricks you need to use to get the job done.

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