Facing bricks play a crucial role in the construction industry, serving as the visible facade of a building. They not only provide a protective layer but also contribute to the overall aesthetics of the structure. With their wide range of colours, textures, and finishes, facing bricks offer architects and builders the opportunity to create visually stunning and unique designs.
In this blog, we’ll explore everything you need to know about facing bricks, including their different types, benefits, common challenges and solutions. We’ll also provide you with some tips for the proper maintenance and preservation to ensure their longevity.
What is a face brick?
Facing bricks, also known as face bricks, are specifically designed for the exterior walls of buildings. They are the bricks that are visible on the outside, giving the building its distinctive look. These bricks are carefully crafted to be weather-resistant, durable and aesthetically pleasing. There are different types of facing bricks available, each with their own unique characteristics.
They come in a variety of colours, textures, and finishes that can enhance the overall look of a building. Whether used in a modern or traditional design, facing bricks provide a distinctive and timeless appeal.
It’s important to note that facing bricks are different from engineering bricks. While both types of bricks are used in construction, engineering bricks are specifically designed for their strength and structural properties. They are often used in areas where durability and high compressive strength are required, such as foundations and retaining walls.
What are the different types of face bricks?
There are several types of facing bricks available on the market and the most common types include extruded bricks, soft mud bricks, handmade bricks, and glazed bricks.
Extruded bricks, also known as wire-cut bricks, are manufactured by forcing brick clay through a die, creating a long length of material which is then cut into manageable sizes. This process ensures uniformity in shape and size, making them a popular choice for modern architecture.
Soft mud bricks, also called stock bricks, provide a more traditional and rustic appearance. They’re often made by hand or using traditional brick making machines, where clay brick mixture is pushed into a mould. This results in a more textured and uneven surface, adding character to the building.
Handmade bricks, as the name suggests, are individually crafted by hand without the use of machinery, resulting in bricks with unique shapes and textures. These types of bricks are often used for restoration projects or to achieve a vintage look.
Glazed bricks are another type of facing brick that has a smooth and glossy surface, giving them a sleek and modern aesthetic. They’re coated in a ceramic glaze, which not only enhances their appearance but also provides additional protection against moisture and staining.
With each of the above facing bricks, they’re available in a range of different colours which will play a significant role in the overall aesthetics of a building. Here are some popular colour varieties and their impact on aesthetics:
- Red Bricks – these are a classic choice as they evoke a sense of warmth, tradition, and timeless appeal. They’re versatile and can be used in various architectural styles, from traditional to contemporary designs.
- Grey Bricks – grey bricks offer a modern and sophisticated aesthetic. They can create a sleek and minimalist look, especially when paired with clean lines and minimalist architecture. They also provide a neutral backdrop for other design elements and landscaping.
- Yellow Facing Bricks – these types of bricks bring a vibrant and energetic feel to a building facade. They are often used to create a cheerful and welcoming atmosphere and are particularly popular in areas with abundant sunshine, as they can reflect light and brighten up the surroundings.
What are the benefits of facing bricks?
Facing bricks offer several benefits that make them a popular choice for exterior walls. Below are some of the key advantages that come with facing bricks:
Durability and longevity
One of the key benefits of facing bricks is that they are designed to withstand various weather conditions such as rain, snow, and extreme temperatures and can last for many years without significant deterioration.
They also have excellent fire-resistant properties, as they don’t contribute to the spread of flames and instead can help protect the building and its occupants in the event of a fire. This makes facing bricks a safe choice for exterior walls.
Low maintenance requirements
Unlike other building materials that may require regular painting or treatment, facing bricks retain their colour and appearance with minimal upkeep, making them a cost-effective choice in the long run. They don’t rot, warp, or corrode, eliminating the need for frequent repairs or replacements. Overall, the low maintenance requirements of facing bricks make them a practical choice for exterior walls.
Aesthetically pleasing
As we’ve previously mentioned, facing bricks come in a variety of colours, textures, and finishes, meaning they can accommodate any building style. Whether you have a traditional home, or you’re opting for a modern look, the array of different styles allow architects and builders to create visually stunning and unique designs.
And with well-maintained facing brickwork or the use of attractive facing bricks, they can also increase the value of a property if you ever wish to sell compared to other types of exterior cladding materials.
Thermal insulation properties
Thanks to their high-quality materials, facing bricks have thermal insulation properties and can help to regulate the temperature inside the building and reduce energy consumption. They contribute to the thermal mass of a building, helping to regulate indoor temperatures by absorbing and slowly releasing heat. However, it’s important to note for maximum energy efficiency, you should insulate your building with good quality insulation.
What are some of the common challenges with facing bricks?
While facing bricks offer numerous benefits, they can face certain challenges. However, these challenges can be overcome with proper maintenance. For example, moisture and water absorption can be a challenge for facing bricks, especially if they’re exposed to excessive rainfall or high levels of humidity. However, there are some solutions that can be implemented to mitigate these issues and protect the integrity of the brickwork.
Proper flashing and drainage should be implemented during construction to direct water away from the brick surface. This helps prevent moisture from penetrating the bricks and causing damage.
You could also apply water-repellent sealants to further enhance the water resistance of facing bricks. These sealants create a protective barrier on the surface of the bricks, preventing moisture absorption and reducing the risk of efflorescence or deterioration.
It’s important to note that the use of breathable sealants is recommended to allow any trapped moisture to escape and prevent moisture buildup within the brickwork. Speak to us today to learn which sealant is suitable for your project.
Efflorescence is another common issue that can affect the appearance of brick surfaces. It’s characterised by a white, powdery deposit that forms on the brick surface due to the migration of salts.
Preventing efflorescence requires proper maintenance during the construction process. Some tips for maintaining efflorescence include regular cleaning using specialised cleaning products, proper water management with effective drainage systems, and applying water-repellent sealant to the brick surface.
Maintenance tips for facing bricks
In order to preserve longevity and ensure their aesthetic appeal, facing bricks require regular maintenance. Here are some maintenance tips for looking after your face bricks:
- Routinely clean your bricks – regularly clean the bricks using mild detergent and water to remove dirt, stains, and moss. Avoid using abrasive cleaners or pressure washers, as they can damage the surface of the bricks and even alter the colour of them.
- Repair damaged bricks – inspect bricks regularly for any signs of damage, such as cracks or chips and repair any damaged bricks promptly to prevent further deterioration and potential structural issues. You should speak to a specialist for expert advice and repair.
- Protect from moisture – apply a water-repellent sealer to your facing bricks to protect them from moisture absorption and prevent issues such as efflorescence.
- Conduct regular inspection – regularly inspect the bricks for any signs of wear and tear, and address any issues promptly to prevent further damage.
Following these simple but effective maintenance tips, allows you to ensure that your facing bricks remain in good condition and continue to enhance the appearance of your building for years to come.
Choose us for your building supplies
As you can see, facing bricks are a versatile and durable choice for exterior applications. With an array for styles, colours, and textures, facing bricks offer aesthetic appeal and longevity.
At JTD Building Supplies, we stock a huge range of facing bricks from some of the world’s most trusted brands including Ibstock, Forterra, Wienerberger and Carlston Brick. We also stock a range of other building supplies for all different types of projects. For a competitive quote for your materials, or for more expert advice, don’t hesitate to contact us today.
Facing Bricks FAQs
What makes facing bricks different from other bricks?
Facing bricks are specifically designed for use in visible areas such as exterior facades. They offer a wider range of colours, textures, and finishes, making them more aesthetically pleasing. They also have enhanced durability to withstand weathering and provide long-lasting performance.
How often should facing bricks be replaced or maintained?
The frequency of replacing or maintaining facing bricks depends on several factors, including the quality of the brickwork and maintenance practices. With proper maintenance and regular inspections, facing bricks can last for many decades without the need for replacement. Regular cleaning, repairing damaged bricks promptly, and applying protective coatings can help extend their lifespan.
What factors should be considered when choosing facing bricks?
Consider factors such as colour, texture, size, durability, local climate, and the architectural style of the building. You should also check for consistency in quality and any specific technical specifications required for your project.
Can facing bricks be painted or treated?
While they can be painted, it’s often discouraged as it can impact the natural breathability of the brick. Special treatments or sealants can be applied to enhance durability and resistance to weathering.
