concrete-construction-building-tips

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

1) Common Bricks

This type of brick is the industry standard, multi-purpose brick. It can be used in most circumstances, though it is not often the best choice for any of them. 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. They can take a lot more wear and tear than other types of bricks and have a low rate of water absorption. As they are the least vulnerable to damp, they are nearly always used in preference to other brick types for any part of a structure that falls below ground level.

3) Facing Bricks

These bricks are the ‘face’ of a building, meaning that they are what you see when you look at most buildings. To deal with the weather and varying temperatures that they are exposed to, they are hard burned during the manufacturing process, which makes them extra durable. There are several sub-types of facing bricks, so you will need to do a little research before purchasing them. The climate that you live in will make a difference to which sub-type you need.

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. Slightly curved bricks are the most special bricks, but they are available in just about any shape that you can think of. You can get special bricks manufactured just for you or, if you want to keep costs down, then you can choose from a wide selection that have already been made.

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. Many are given a finish to make them look like natural stone.

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. Rather than just guess, you should ask a senior employee at your local brick merchant what they would advise. They should be able to talk you through which combination of bricks is best for getting your job done.

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