Need a helping hand in learning about types of bricks in the UK? This guide has you covered.
What is Brick?
You’ll probably understand that bricks are used to build homes and other properties. But what is the definition of brick in industry terms?
Bricks are typically blocks of dried clay used to construct pavements, buildings, and numerous other masonry constructs. Though usually, bricks consist of sun-dried clay, they can incorporate other melded and shaped elements such as lime or concrete.
Commercial bricks are primarily used in construction, having some leading manufacturers make up the market in the UK.
Manufacturers of Brick
So who are the brick suppliers in the UK? Find the most prominent manufacturers of brick below.
- Ibstock Brick
- Forterra
- Wienerberger
- Michelmersh
- Northcot Brick
- Ketley Brick
- York Handmade
- The Bulmer Brick & Tile Company
- Raeburn Brick
- H. Collier
- Matclad
- G. Matthews
All these brickmakers are registered with the UK Brick Development Association, underlining their quality and adherence to regulation. That’s why many contractors will only purchase exclusively from companies associated with this organization.
Most of their sales will constitute the red and brown bricks that we’re all familiar with, but what other types of bricks are there in the UK? You can view them here or learn more below.
What are the Different Types of Bricks in the UK?
Here are the most common types of bricks in the UK.
Facing Bricks
Facing bricks are some of the most popular types of bricks in the UK, frequently used in the external walls of houses. They have higher water absorption and lower density, but they are aesthetically pleasing in the property market.
Engineering Bricks
Engineering bricks are typically used for structural reasons, with their key features being their robust strength and low water absorption. They are usually darker than their counterparts, making their appearance slightly less appealing than others. They are used most in groundworks.
Glazed Bricks
Glazed bricks have a surface fused with a ceramic, giving the final brick a glossy finish that’s not seen on engineering or facing bricks. These bricks tend to have a more versatile feature set than the other two, being durable, visually appealing, and high performing under adverse weather conditions. They also give their building a unique aesthetic.
Colors
There are many different colors available for most of the categories of bricks listed above. Standard brick colors for building projects include:
- Red
- Grey
- Black
- Yellow
- Blue
Are There Any Other Types of Bricks?
Other bricks are less widely used in the UK, but it is worth mentioning because you may come across them. These include:
- Fire Bricks – Bricks fired in a kiln to make them more durable than standard bricks
- Air Bricks – Feature holes that allow better ventilation in a building
- Concrete Blocks – Provide water and heat resistance with added thermal conductivity
So with all those options available, where can you purchase these bricks if you have an upcoming construction project?
Where Can I Source Brick?
Brick Wholesale has a vast brick library featuring many categories and colors of bricks at competitive rates and excellent quality. Visit their website to browse their stock and enjoy more significant savings when you buy in bulk.
