🔰 Introduction

Bricks have been a fundamental building block of construction for centuries. They are widely used for wall construction and are laid with mortar made from a mix of cement, sand, and water. Most bricks are crafted from clay, initially sun-dried and then baked in a kiln for durability.

Whether you’re building a home or a high-rise, understanding brick types, quality standards, and construction methods is essential for structural strength and aesthetics.

🧱 Types of Bricks

Bricks come in many forms based on material, purpose, and manufacturing method. Here’s a breakdown of the most common types:

  1. Burnt Clay Bricks – Traditional clay bricks, sun-dried and kiln-fired. Most commonly used.

  2. Common Bricks – Basic bricks made from clay, used for general construction.

  3. Cored Bricks – Have cylindrical holes to reduce weight and improve insulation.

  4. Engineering Bricks – Strong, dense, and have low water absorption; ideal for load-bearing.

  5. Facing Bricks – Used on visible surfaces for aesthetics; come in various colors and textures.

  6. Fire Bricks – Heat-resistant bricks used in fireplaces, ovens, and kilns.

  7. Fly Ash Bricks – Eco-friendly bricks made from coal combustion by-products.

  8. Glazed Bricks – Glossy surface finish, often used for decorative wall work.

  9. Hollow Bricks – Lighter bricks with hollow cavities for better thermal insulation.

  10. Hydraulic Bricks – Pressed using hydraulic machines; high strength and density.

  11. Lightweight Bricks (AAC Blocks) – Autoclaved Aerated Concrete blocks with great insulation and low weight.

  12. Paver Bricks – Durable, thick bricks used for paving roads, pathways, and driveways.

  13. Perforated Bricks – Have small holes; reduce weight and allow better bonding.

  14. Permeable Bricks – Allow water to pass through; ideal for drainage-friendly pavements.

  15. Pressed Bricks – Made by pressing clay into molds; smooth and uniform.

  16. Refractory Bricks – Withstand extreme heat; used in furnaces and industrial applications.

  17. Sand Lime Bricks – Made from sand and lime; cured with steam.

  18. Solid Bricks – No holes or perforations; extremely strong.

  19. Wire-Cut Bricks – Smooth-faced bricks cut by wires for consistency.

📏 Standard Sizes of Bricks

In India and many other countries, brick sizes are standardized:

Metric Size:
Length: 190 mm (with mortar 200 mm)
Width: 90 mm
Height: 90 mm

Nominal Size (US Standard):
Length: 203 mm (8")
Width: 92 mm (3 5/8")
Height: 57 mm (2 1/4")

🧱 Classes / Grades of Bricks

Bricks are classified into three main grades based on quality:


🔸 First-Class Bricks

Best quality: sharp edges, uniform size, smooth texture

Compression strength: 1400–1600 psi

Make a clear ringing sound when struck

Uniform red color, thoroughly burnt

Used in high-quality load-bearing structures and exposed brickwork

🔸 Second-Class Bricks

Moderate quality: minor shape irregularities and surface flaws

Compression strength: 1000–1400 psi

Slightly dull sound when tapped

Partially burnt; color may vary

Suitable for internal walls or places where aesthetics are less important

🔸 Third-Class Bricks

Low quality: irregular size, cracks, rough texture

Compression strength: 900–1000 psi

Dull sound; may break on tapping

Often under-burnt and discolored

Typically used for temporary or non-load-bearing construction

✅ Characteristics of Good Bricks

A high-quality brick should:

Be well-burnt with a uniform red color

Have sharp edges, square corners, and even shape

Emit a clear metallic sound when struck

Show water absorption of no more than 15–18% by weight

Be free of cracks, chips, and lime clots

🛠️ Brick Construction Requirements

To ensure strong and durable brickwork, follow these site guidelines:

Soaking: All burnt clay bricks should be thoroughly soaked in water before use. For bricks laid in mud mortar, a simple dip in water is enough.

Joint Thickness: Brick joints should be between 6 mm to 10 mm.

Flush Joints: Mortar should be flushed at each course level.

Wall Leveling: Never leave walls at different levels beyond 1 meter unless unavoidable. Always rake and level joints properly.

Bonding Pattern: Use the English bond unless otherwise instructed. Avoid using half bricks except when required for bond completion.

Facing Bricks: Use sound, uniform, and good-looking bricks for external walls.


Joint Finishing:

Striking (flush or weathered) is done during bricklaying.

Pointing is a separate step requiring different mortar and technique.

For plastered surfaces, joints must be raked 10 mm deep while mortar is green (within 24 hours).

Choose pointing type based on use:

Flush pointing for mud walls

Weather-struck for external unplastered walls

Recessed for columns or aesthetic work

Tuck-pointing only where specified by the engineer


Curing:

New brickwork should be kept moist for up to 14 days

If built over old work, water the base 2 days in advance

🧾 Conclusion

Bricks form the backbone of most buildings. Whether you’re laying the foundation or crafting the exterior, choosing the right type and quality of brick is vital for durability, strength, and aesthetics. Equally important is following proper construction practices — from soaking bricks to curing mortar joints — to ensure your structure stands the test of time.

🔍 Tip: Always consult construction codes and material standards relevant to your region for best results.