Types of Bricks

Introduction

Bricks, in very simple terms, are rectangular blocks made out of baked clay. They are essentially the most important material used in the construction of masonry walls, pavements, and other elements.

They have been used for generations because of their qualities as a great material for construction as they are strong, fireproof and provide excellent insulation.

Bricks come in different varieties but each type carries specific qualities and provides various benefits, out of which seven of the major types of bricks used in construction, in modern times have been discussed below.

The article also puts light on various factors such as their average price, their advantages and disadvantages and certain parameters for choosing the best brick for your construction work.

1. Burnt Clay Bricks

Burnt Clay Bricks are the most common type of bricks used in construction. They are made by moulding clay into rectangular forms and then heating it up in a kiln at very high temperatures. As a result of heating,

a strong brick is produced when the clay joins and hardens at high temperatures. Depending on the type of clay used, burnt clay bricks come in a variety of sizes, colours and quality, classified into the following four categories based on their quality.

• First Class: Good quality bricks with fine and precise edges
• Second Class: They are ground moulded and have a bit of irregularity
• Third Class: Rough edged bricks which are used for temporary constructions
• Fourth Class: Highly irregular bricks which are over burnt and dark in colour.

The first class quality bricks are majorly used for building walls, foundations, columns, etc. They are generally priced between 5 to 8 Indian Rupees.

2. Concrete Bricks

Concrete Bricks are made by mixing cement, sand and aggregates, such as crushed stone with water. The slurry is then poured into moulds and after several days of curing, the bricks are ready for use.

Compared to burnt clay bricks, concrete bricks are denser and offer better insulation. Their shape and size can also be tailored as per specific needs and requirements.

These bricks are a great option for construction in locations which are prone to natural calamities like earthquakes and floods because they are resistant to moisture, fire and pests. The average cost of bricks lies between 5 to 6 Rupees.

3. Fly Ash Bricks

Fly Ash Bricks are made by mixing fly ash (a waste material generated by thermal power plants) with cement and water. The mixture is then moulded into bricks and allowed to cure for several days.

As compared to concrete bricks, fly ash bricks are lighter in weight which allows them to be handled and transported easily. They are also environment friendly and give their contribution as a sustainable product as they are

made using waste materials which would have otherwise ended up as debris in landfills. The approximate cost of these bricks is between 4 to 6 rupees.

4. Calcium Silicate Bricks

Calcium Silicate Bricks or commonly referred to as Sand Lime Bricks is made by mixing sand, lime and water. The mixture is then allowed to settle in moulds and after a few days, it results in strong and durable bricks. Bricks made of sand and lime are exceptionally resilient,

fireproof and provide excellent insulation. They are the best option for construction buildings in places vulnerable to floods and termites since they provide resistance to mixture and pests. They also offer high compressive strength,

thus, they can be considered for load bearing walls in houses and multi storey buildings. They also do not require a high amount of mortar, which eventually reduces cost and saves time. Their average cost per piece lies between 4 to 7 Rupees.

5. Engineering Bricks

Engineering Bricks are made by using dense clay or shale that is fired at a high temperature, which results in a brick that is extremely strong, hard, durable and resistant to water absorption. They also possess load bearing ,

capacities and do not easily crack or crumble.

They are often identified by their dark-red or blue-grey colour and smooth and dense texture. They are generally used in construction projects where strength and durability are crucial,

such as construction of bridges, tunnels, manholes, retaining walls and basement foundations. Compared to regular bricks, engineering bricks can survive severe weather conditions and have a higher compressive strength.

Their cost per unit starts from Rupees ten and above.

6. Fire Bricks

Fire Bricks, also known as refractory bricks are a special type of brick that is especially designed to withstand high temperatures without breaking down. They are made from materials like clay, alumina, silica and magnesia that have a very high melting point.

They are commonly used in places with high temperature applications such as furnaces, kilns and fireplaces. Their endurance to high temperature provides insulation and protection against heat and thermal shock.

There are several kinds of fire bricks available, each with its unique qualities and uses. Such as, medium duty and high duty fire bricks, insulating fire bricks,

acid resistant fire bricks and phosphate bonded fire bricks. The application and needed temperature resistance determines the precise type of fire brick to be utilised for a particular project.

7. Eco Bricks

Eco Bricks is a result of plastic waste management technique that involves combining used plastic bottles with non-biodegradable waste such as plastic wrappers, bags and other materials.

The resulting brick is then used to create a variety of things including benches, walls and flower beds. Eco bricks are a good way to repurpose plastic waste that might otherwise have ended up in landfills or the ocean.

By filling plastic bottles with non-biodegradable waste, eco bricks not only prevent the plastic from entering the environment but also create a useful and durable building material.

Their average cost ranges between 4 to 5 rupees per piece. 

FAQs

Q1. Which bricks should be used for construction in areas which are prone to flood and earthquakes?

Ans. Concrete bricks should be used in areas that are prone to flood and earthquake as they are resistant to fire, moisture and pests.

Q2. Which brick is light in weight and can be used for smaller constructions?

 Ans. Fly Ash bricks are light in weight which allows them to be handled and transported easily.

Q3. Which bricks provide high durability and good insulation?

Ans. Sand lime bricks or calcium silicate bricks provide high durability and good insulation.

Q4. Which bricks should be used for large constructions such as bridges and tunnels?

Ans. Engineering bricks should be used for large constructions such as bridges and tunnels.

Q5. Which bricks should be used for constructions which bear high temperatures?

Ans. Fire bricks should be used for constructions which bear high temperatures.

Q6. Which bricks are the best for garden construction?

Ans. Eco Bricks are the best for garden construction as they are made with recycled waste and add up to sustainability.