UK Bricks and Their Popularity in Construction
Facing bricks are widely used in domestic construction projects. Their prevalence and popularity are unmatched, considering the diverse range of structures that use high-quality clay bricks.
However, have you often wondered why bricks are so popular for commercial architecture?
Looking at Brick as a Construction Material
Physically speaking, the strength of bricks is almost untouchable when compared to other building materials. As far as stability is concerned, clay facing bricks are practically the gold standard.
The standard brick size in the UK, which is 215 x 102.5 x 65mm, make them an ideal material to hold when constructing. The idea of stacking UK bricks one after another seems laborious and time-consuming, but thanks to modern brick manufacturing processes, not only can they be produced in bulk but added to precast panels ahead of arriving on-site. This helps to alleviate time and labour when building.
The physical properties of brick alone can’t be enough to justify its popularity in the commercial sector, though. Luckily, working with brick manufacturers and suppliers means that commercial architects are getting far more than just a robust and resilient building material. What else makes brick such an excellent choice of building material?
4 Reasons Why UK Bricks are So Popular
Energy-Efficient
Brickwork is a better insulation material than other materials like concrete or stone. Most UK buildings are built with brick due to their natural insulating properties, with bricks proving far more efficient at conserving energy and keeping people warm inside, which is helpful in the winter months. As a result, brick buildings have lower energy costs and are far more favourable for the environment.
Durable
Buildings constructed from solid bricks can last a lifetime, with some of the oldest brick buildings in the UK still standing today. Therefore, using brick means your building is going to withstand the test of time due to its durability, strength and load-bearing capabilities.
Aesthetically Pleasing
You can buy bricks in numerous textures, colours and sizes now, thanks to the excellent advancements in brick manufacturing. No two brick buildings are the same; even if they look similar, chances are the brick products are different. Some architects prefer the unique texture of handmade bricks, whereas others prefer wirecut bricks or even glazed bricks.
Many architects prefer to use a brick type entirely customised for their building(s), and finding a bespoke, special-shaped brick isn’t as difficult as it sounds. It depends on the raw materials in a local area, availability, surrounding brickwork, and the manufacturing process used.
Modern brickwork can be matched from existing bricks to create a rustic-looking yet contemporary finish. Plus, there is a diverse range of brick bonding patterns to choose from, which can impact how your building stands out.
Modular Clay Products can find and match bricks based on your chosen criteria. If you need some inspiration for the types of bricks to use, look at our brick selector.
Sustainable
Brick manufacturing is becoming increasingly efficient and less harmful to the environment. Many UK brick manufacturers are, therefore, implementing alternative and renewable energy sources to combat the climate change crisis.
Bricks are naturally very eco-friendly, as they are made from natural materials such as clay and water. They’re also infinitely recyclable and can be used multiple times.
Other Benefits of Bricks
Some other considerable advantages of bricks are included below:
- Heat resistance, helping to reduce the likelihood of a fire.
- Sound reduction, keeping the inside of your building quieter from any excessive noise outside.
- No need for them to be painted, as bricks stay consistent and protected when joined with mortar and do not need any protective coating.
- Primarily maintenance-free, meaning you don’t have to worry about treating them, with the extremely rare exception of brick efflorescence.
- Pre-construction, individual brick issues can be addressed one at a time – for example, if one is cracked and needs replacing – rather than taking down an entire external wall.
Bricks provide a sustainable, environmentally-friendly, strong, durable and beautiful material to any commercial building, adding character, charm and a sense of uniqueness.