When people think about bricks, they usually conjure up red bricks that might remind them of a firehouse or a city building. Bricks have been used for centuries due to their durability and relative ease of installation. Whether used to build buildings, streets, walls, or even bridges, bricks have been an integral part of construction for many years. In this article, we will discuss the three common types of bricks and how they are made, and what they are traditionally used for.
What Are The Three Common Types Of Bricks?
The three common types of bricks are as follows:
- Burnt Clay Bricks
- Concrete Bricks
- Sand Lime Bricks
What Are Burnt Clay Bricks?
Burnt clay bricks are the oldest type of bricks. They are perhaps the most popular brick in use as well. They are created by placing clay into a mold and then firing or heating the mold until the clay becomes a solid. Since it is clay, the hardened state of the brick is the traditional red color most people associate with bricks. The benefit of burnt clay bricks is that they are resistant to extreme weather patterns and insects such as termites. Given the common use of burnt clay bricks, they fit in most budgets and have a long life expectancy. Burnt clay bricks are used for all types of construction. The most common usages are walls, building foundations, pathways, and streets.
What Are Concrete Bricks?
Concrete bricks are bricks that are, no surprise, made from concrete. Concrete is a mixture of fine cement, sand, gravel, and water. The benefit of concrete bricks is that is do not absorb water and therefore are said to be almost waterproof. The downside of concrete bricks is that they typically have a shorter lifespan than burnt clay bricks. Concrete bricks are typically used as support columns and foundations along with the building of walls. Concrete bricks can be cured with colors and designs. The most common form of concrete brick is a cinder block. Concrete bricks tend to be the cheapest option of bricks to purchase.
What Are Sand Lime Bricks?
Sand lime bricks are bricks that are made out of lime instead of clay or concrete. It is a mixture of lime, sand, and water. They are typically only used in the United States and Germany. The benefit of sand-lime bricks is that they give a more uniform appearance and, since they are smoother, do not need to be plastered over. Sand lime bricks tend to be grey, off-white, or white in appearance. They are a great option for people who want the durability the sturdiness of brick construction but do not want to have the traditional red look or the utilitarian look from a concrete brick. Sand lime bricks are used for all the same construction purposes as burnt clay brick and have a similar life expectancy.
Bricks As Pavers
Bricks make an excellent choice for pavers for both driveways and walkways. If a person wishes to give their home immediate curb appeal, consider paving your home with bricks.
