There are various types of bricks on the market and it can be a Herculean task to choose the best one for your project. From clay and concrete bricks to engineered ones, the options can overwhelm anyone. What you need is solid judgment, and that comes with a holistic knowledge of the different types of bricks.
This blog highlights the types of bricks and their pros and cons for homes, commercial buildings, or additions to existing structures.
Advantages of Brick and Block Construction
There are many advantages of brick and block construction. Some of them are:
- Aesthetics: Bricks come in a wide range of beautiful, organic colors and textures.
- Strength: Bricks have a strong compressive strength.
- Porosity: The capacity to both release and absorb moisture aids in controlling indoor humidity and temperature.
- Fire protection: Bricks, on average, have an eight-hour maximum protection rating against fire when properly constructed.
- Sound attenuation: A brick wall can absorb a variety of sounds, but on average, it can block 60–70 decibels of noise. Brick walls can also be built to attenuate over 200 decibels of sound.
- Insulation: Compared to other materials, bricks provide good thermal insulation because they absorb and release heat slowly. Bricks can save 50% more energy than wood by regulating and maintaining a structure’s stable internal temperatures.
- Wear and tear resistance: Strong composition resists wear and tear that is typical of other materials.
What are the Different Types of Bricks?
There are several types of bricks, including:
Clay Bricks
Clay bricks are one of the most common types of brick and are made from raw clay and shale that is set into a rectangular shape and fired in a kiln at high temperatures. Clay bricks are recognized for their durability, power, and fire resistance. They are generally used in building walls, chimneys, and other structures.
Concrete Bricks
Concrete bricks are made from a combination of cement, sand, and aggregate. The mix is materialized into a rectangular shape and then fixed. Concrete bricks are less costly than clay bricks and are used in diverse construction applications, including fences, retaining walls, and garden borders.
Fly Ash Bricks
Fly ash bricks are made from a combination of fly ash, lime, and gypsum. Fly ash is a byproduct of coal-fired power plants, and by using fly ash bricks, you can reduce waste and reduce greenhouse gas emissions. Fly ash bricks are robust and durable and are usually used in load-bearing walls.
Sand-lime Bricks
Sand-lime bricks are assembled from a mixture of sand, lime, and water. The mixture is molded into a rectangular shape and then cured. Sand-lime bricks are known for their resilience, durability, and fire resistance. They are usually used in load-bearing walls and are the best bricks for the construction of buildings with fire resistance requirements.
Engineering Bricks
Engineering bricks are a type of high-density brick utilized in engineering applications. Because of their high compressive stability and durability, they are usually used in below-ground forms, such as foundations, walls, and sewer systems. Engineering bricks are made from a combination of clay and other minerals, molded into a rectangular shape, and released in a kiln at high temperatures.
Calcium Silicate Bricks
Calcium silicate bricks are made from a combination of sand, lime, and other minerals. These types of bricks come up in rectangular forms. Calcium silicate bricks are known for their insulation properties and fire resistance. They are often used in walls, chimneys, and other structures with insulation or fire resistance requirements.
Fire Bricks
Fire bricks are a type of brick with high heat resistance. They are made from various clay and other minerals, molded into a rectangular shape, and released in a kiln at high temperatures. Fire bricks are used in fireplaces, kilns, and other high-temperature applications because of their ability to withstand high temperatures without breaking or cracking.
How to Choose the Best Brick for Construction?
When choosing the best brick for construction, consider the following factors:
Evaluate the Climate
Firstly, you need to think about the weather in your area and choose a brick that is suitable for the local weather conditions. For example, in areas with severe winters and extreme temperature swings, it is important to choose a brick that is able to withstand freeze-thaw cycles.
Focus on the Purpose
Select the brick construction’s goal and pick one that is best suited for your needs. For example, if you make a retaining wall, you may require an engineering brick with high compressive strength. On the other hand, if you are creating a fire-resistant structure, select a fire brick or calcium silicate brick.
Cost Plays an Important Role
Cost is an important factor to consider when choosing the best brick for construction. Different types of bricks have varying costs, so choosing a brick that fits your budget while also meeting your needs is important. The cost of a brick can be influenced by several factors, including the materials used in its manufacture, the manufacturing process, and the availability of the brick in your area.
For example, clay bricks are often less expensive than engineering bricks, but engineering bricks have higher compressive strength and are better suited for use in below-ground structures. On the other hand, fire bricks and calcium silicate bricks can be more expensive than other types of bricks because they are specially formulated to provide fire resistance and insulation.
Set Aesthetics According to Your Choice
Aesthetics are an essential consideration when choosing the best brick for construction. Different types of bricks have distinct appearances, including differences in shade, texture, and size. It is necessary to choose a brick that complements the design of your building or structure and enhances its overall aesthetic appeal.
For example, if you are building a traditional home, choose a red clay brick with a classic, warm appearance. If you are building a modern design, you may choose a sleek, contemporary look, achieved through the use of a smooth, uniform concrete brick. The size of the brick can also affect the aesthetic appearance of a building or structure.
Check the Availability of the Brick
Some types of bricks may not be readily available in certain regions, so it is important to ensure that the type of brick you choose is available in your area before making a final decision.
For example, specialty bricks, such as fire bricks or calcium silicate bricks, may only be available through specialty suppliers or distributors. In contrast, clay bricks and concrete bricks are typically more widely available and can be found at most building supply stores.
To determine the availability of a particular type of brick in your area, you can start by conducting an online search or contacting local building supply stores or specialty suppliers.
Durability Matters the Most
Another important factor to consider for the best bricks for construction is durability. It is important to choose a brick that is able to withstand the elements over time and maintain its structural integrity for the desired lifespan of the building or structure.
The durability of a brick can be influenced by several factors, including the materials used in its manufacture, the manufacturing process, and the environment in which the brick will be used. For example, clay bricks are known for their durability and are often used in various construction projects.
At the same time, concrete bricks are also durable but may be more susceptible to cracking or breakage over time. To get quality bricks, get in touch with Jindal Mechno Bricks. They are the best brick manufacturers that can help you with this.
In conclusion, choosing the right type of brick for your construction project is an important decision that will impact the appearance, functionality, and longevity of your building or structure. When selecting a brick, it is important to consider cost, aesthetics, availability, and durability factors.
Different types of bricks, such as clay, concrete, fire, and calcium silicate bricks, offer varying benefits and drawbacks. It is important to consider your specific needs and select a brick that meets those needs.
Conclusion
Looking for the best brick manufacturing company to buy high-quality bricks for your home or building? Go nowhere other than Jindal Mechno Bricks. We are the leading brick manufacturers and deliver high-quality bricks that help you make your dream home or building strong and visually appealing. So, contact our experts to know more about our products and services.
