Cheap facing bricks

Types of cheap facing bricks

Facing bricks, also known as cheap facing bricks, are used as external walls for buildings. These bricks are durable and have an appealing aesthetic appearance. These bricks are also used in load-bearing applications. Due to their high compressive strength, facing bricks can be used in applications with high stress and load. These bricks are made of clay or molded concrete. They are used to construct buildings, pavements, and other external walls. They consist of clay, shale, concrete, or calcium silicate.

These bricks come in different colors, textures, and sizes, and are able to withstand weather elements. Cheap facing bricks are used for decorative purposes to enhance the appearance of a building. They are available in different sizes and colors and are used in non-load-bearing walls. Below are the types of cheap facing bricks:

• Common bricks: These bricks are used for walls, pavements, and other structures where appearance is not a priority. They are also known as cheap bricks. Common bricks are made from clay and have a dense composition. They are not burnt at high temperatures during manufacturing, which makes them less waterproof than facing bricks. These bricks are used in interior walls, walkways, and driveways.
• Frog-faced bricks: These facing bricks have a depression or indent called a frog on one side. The frog is filled with mortar when the brick is laid, which helps to bond the brick to the mortar. Frog bricks provide a larger surface area for mortar, which improves the strength of the brickwork. They also help with the drainage of excess water from the mortar mix.
• Perforated bricks: These facing bricks have holes or perforations that go through the brick. The perforations make the brick lighter without reducing its strength. They also use less clay when the bricks are made. Like frog bricks, the holes in perforated bricks help to drain water from the mortar mix. These bricks are also called punched bricks.
• Burnt clay bricks: These facing bricks are made of clay that is burnt at very high temperatures. This makes them very hard and strong. They do not absorb water because they are fired at high temperatures, which makes them suitable for outside walls.
• Concrete bricks: These facing bricks are made from concrete, which is a mixture of sand, cement, and gravel. They are usually made for specific jobs and can be very strong. However, these bricks are heavy and need special supports when they are used.
• Modular bricks: These facing bricks are of the same size and can be used to create a modular pattern. They are used in walls that require special patterns, like outside walls and inside walls.

Functions and features of cheap facing bricks

Facing bricks have different functions and features, including the following:

• Load-bearing capacity

  Load-bearing bricks are used for structural walls, supporting beams, and load-bearing walls. They can carry loads from above and distribute them to the foundation. Non-load bearing bricks are used for infill walls, partitions, and decorative walls. They do not carry structural loads but provide architectural functions.

• Insulation capacity

  Insulation facing bricks are used for exterior walls to resist heat flow and improve energy efficiency. They have a higher R-value or lower U-value. Insulation facing bricks are suitable for cold climates. Non-insulation facing bricks are used for interior walls and have lower insulation requirements. They may have a lower R-value.

• Moisture Resistance

  Moisture-resistant bricks resist moisture penetration and are used in areas such as bathrooms, kitchens, and exterior walls. They include clay bricks, concrete bricks, and fly ash bricks. Non-moisture resistant bricks are used in areas where moisture is not prevalent. They may absorb moisture and deteriorate over time.

• Fire Resistance

  Fire-resistant bricks are used for fireplaces, chimneys, and areas exposed to high heat. They include clay fire bricks and refractory bricks. They are rated by the International Building Code based on their ability to resist flame penetration and heat transfer. The rating ranges from F0 for less than 5 hours to F3 for more than 15 hours.

• Aesthetic qualities

  Bricks come in different colors, textures, and sizes to offer different aesthetic qualities. They include clay bricks, concrete bricks, calcium silicate bricks, and fly ash bricks. They also include facing bricks, engineering bricks, and glazed bricks.

• Durability

  Bricks are durable and can last for many years with proper care and maintenance. They are resistant to wear and tear, weather elements, and pests.

• Low Maintenance

  Bricks require little maintenance to preserve their appearance and performance. Regular cleaning and occasional repointing are usually sufficient.

Applications of Cheap Facing Bricks

• Residential construction: Cheap facing bricks are commonly used in residential construction. They are used in building houses, townhouses, and apartments. Cheap facing bricks are a good choice for residential construction since they are durable, and homes built with them require little maintenance. Houses built with facing bricks also have an attractive appearance, which is desirable for residential construction.
• Commercial construction: Facing bricks are also used in commercial construction. They are used to build commercial buildings such as office buildings, shopping centers, hotels, and restaurants. Cheap facing bricks are suitable for commercial construction because they are long-lasting and have a beautiful appearance that will attract potential clients to a business.
• Retaining walls and garden beds: Retaining walls and garden beds improve the overall appearance of a landscape. Cheap facing bricks are used to build decorative garden beds and retaining walls that match the landscape's style and design. Cheap facing bricks are a good choice for landscaping applications since they come in different colors, shapes, and sizes that suit different styles and designs.
• Pathways and driveways: Pathways and driveways made of bricks add a classic, timeless look to any landscape. In addition to that, they also offer a long-lasting and sturdy surface that can withstand heavy traffic and harsh weather conditions. People looking for a durable and low-maintenance option for pathways and driveways can use cheap facing bricks.
• Fireplaces and outdoor cooking areas: Cheap facing bricks can be used to construct fireplaces and outdoor cooking areas like kitchens. Facing bricks can withstand high temperatures, making them a suitable choice for these applications.
• Interior features: Cheap facing bricks are also used for interior features in homes and commercial buildings. For instance, they are used to make accent walls, which are walls that stand out in a room, and arches that are overhead curved structures. Cheap facing bricks are a good choice for these applications since they add texture and color to a room.

How to choose cheap facing bricks

Now that we have discussed the types and uses of facing bricks, let us look at how to choose them.

• Know the type of bricks

  First, one should know the type of bricks, whether clay or concrete. Then, determine the purpose of the facing bricks. Are they for exterior walls, interior walls, pathways, or driveways? Each application may require a specific type.

• Color, texture, and finish

  Choose the color, texture, and finish of the facing bricks to ensure they will complement the design style of the building. Whether modern, traditional, or rustic, the right color and texture will enhance the visual appeal.

• Structural integrity and load-bearing capacity

  For facing bricks used on walls, ensure they have adequate load-bearing capacity and structural integrity. This ensures the safety and longevity of the wall or structure being built.

• Quality and price

  Buy quality bricks from reputable facing brick manufacturers at a cost that is within the budget. It is important to note that while choosing low-quality bricks may seem more affordable initially, it can lead to higher long-term costs due to increased maintenance and repairs.

• Water absorption

  Water absorption is critical when choosing facing bricks for external applications. Bricks with low water absorption are ideal for external applications as they resist freezing and thawing and prevent mold growth.

• Meet local building codes

  Facing bricks should meet the required local building codes and regulations. This ensures safety and legal compliance.

• Consult experts

  Consulting experts is a wise approach to ensure informed decision-making. Whether working with architects, engineers, or experienced contractors, seeking professional guidance will provide valuable insights tailored to specific project needs.

Cheap Facing Bricks Q & A

Q1: Are facing bricks the same as wall bricks?

A1: Facing bricks are often referred to as wall bricks, but they are not the same. According to experts, facing bricks are used to enhance the structural appeal of a wall, while wall bricks can be used for walls.

Q2: What are the types of bricks walls?

A2: There are several types of bricks for walls, including clay bricks, concrete bricks, fly ash bricks, facing bricks, fire bricks, marble bricks, and engineering bricks.

Q3: What are the qualities of good bricks?

A3: Good bricks should be hard, with a ringing sound when struck. They should be uniform in shape, size, and color. Additionally, they should absorb water quickly and have a smoke-free, firm mortar bed.

Q4: What is the importance of facing bricks?

A4: Cheap facing bricks, especially clay bricks, have a timeless appeal and provide natural texture and color. They are durable and low maintenance. They also offer design flexibility, energy efficiency, and, most importantly, increase property value.