The debate about which material is best suited for building a house can be considered finished. Everyone was reconciled by the facing brick, which pleases the developer with high strength, a variety of color palettes, shapes and textures.

The inner part of the load-bearing wall can be folded "from anything": ordinary clay or silicate bricks, arbolite or shell blocks, foam or aerated concrete. In any case, the appearance of the facade will be ideal if facing bricks are laid in the outer verst of the masonry. The gap between it and the main wall is filled with effective insulation. So it turns out a three-layer constructive "pie" that does not require additional external finishing.

Agreeing with the arguments of the builders, the customer has to make a difficult choice: which facing brick for the facade is better to buy. We will help clarify this issue, and introduce you to the varieties of this finishing material.

Facing brick classification

The gradation of the facade cladding is determined by the technology of its manufacture.

There are four categories of facing bricks:

1. Ceramic.
2. Clinker.
3. Hyperpressed (concrete).
4. Silicate.

Brick in each of the listed categories is available in two versions: solid and hollow. The weight of a hollow brick is on average 25-35% less, and its resistance to heat loss is approximately 10-15% higher.

Ceramic facing brick

It is produced by firing a raw mixture consisting of red low-melting clay, organic and mineral additives that regulate plasticity. In this capacity, coal dust, slag, fireclay, sawdust, ash and quartz sand are used. The initial mixture sequentially goes through the processes of molding, drying and firing. The main difference between the front ceramic brick and the ordinary one is careful preparation components before molding. Therefore, it does not contain foreign inclusions and cracks.

The material obtained at the outlet of the firing chamber is resistant to moisture, high strength and good energy-saving properties. Types and colors of ceramic facing bricks are diverse.

On sale you can find not only ordinary, but also shaped material (for laying complex architectural elements). To expand the color gamut, manufacturers use mineral dyes (chromium oxide, finely ground iron or manganese ore), adding them to the composition of the feedstock.

Decorating the surface of ceramic bricks is performed in several ways. In addition to the smooth matte and glossy surface, finishes are available that give this material a resemblance to wild stone.

Clinker brick

The closest "relative" of ceramic bricks. The main difference between them lies in the feedstock and firing temperature. For the production of clinker, medium and refractory clays are used. Accordingly, they are fired at a higher temperature. The result is a very dense and durable face brick with minimal water absorption. These qualities make it possible to use it not only in facade decoration, but also for facing the basement of the foundation, building fences and paving paths.

The thermal conductivity of clinker stone is higher than that of ceramic stone. This disadvantage is compensated by its high resistance to cracking at low temperatures.

The color palette and texture of clinker stone are extremely diverse, since each manufacturer offers customers their own collections. The size range of this cladding can also not be called boring. In addition to the standard single version 250x120x65 mm, you can buy a brick of reduced thickness and height, as well as a long clinker (528x108x37 mm).

Hyper pressed brick

Clay firing is an energy-intensive process and not very cost-effective. Therefore, many manufacturers are switching to pressed non-fired bricks. Its basis is granite screenings, water and cement. At its core, it is ultra-dense concrete, which was shaped like a masonry brick.

The main requirement for facade decoration is weather resistance. According to this indicator, hyper-pressed brick is perfect for finishing exterior walls.

In terms of strength and other quality characteristics, it is practically not inferior to clinker. Thanks to the textured surface (under the rock, torn stone) and the use of persistent dyes, this material looks great in masonry.

Finishing the facade with hyper-pressed brick looks elegant, solid and reliable.

silicate brick

Belongs to the category of non-firing materials. It differs from hyperpressed brick in its raw material composition. It does not contain cement. High mechanical strength is achieved here by hardening a mixture of silicate sand and slaked lime in an autoclave (high temperature and pressure).

Nowadays, silicate facade brick as a facing material is losing its former popularity. In the struggle for the buyer, manufacturers have developed several color options for the silicate mixture. Unfortunately, they all look rather pale and cannot compete with rich colors ceramics and clinker.

In the cladding of the building, this material behaves well. Compared to clinker bricks, it absorbs moisture more strongly, but at the same time, it is better than ceramics to withstand repeated soaking, freezing and thawing.

You can choose a facade brick that matches the color, texture and, of course, the price without leaving your home. To do this, just go to the website of a reliable supplier and choose a quality facing brick for your taste and budget. If necessary, you can order a consultation of a specialist by phone and finally make a choice.

Figured (shaped) brick

Today, no one is satisfied with the straight lines of the facade, so each type of face brick is complemented by a wide range of shaped elements. Using them, you can lay out complex architectural elements without time-consuming tees and cutting, dressing up the house in a beautiful “stone lace”.

Popular colors, textures and shapes

A brick building should look brick, sorry for the tautology. Therefore, the peak of the popularity of consumer demand falls on the colors and shades characteristic of baked clay.

It is not difficult to diversify the flat surface of firing bricks (ceramic and clinker). To do this, it is enough to apply a textured pattern to the raw clay and send it to “fix” in the oven.

Some color and texture options for clinker and ceramic bricks

In addition to "wet embossing", manufacturers use the following decorating technologies:

• gunning (application of mineral chips);
• engobing (a composition is applied that forms a vitreous film during firing);
• glazing (similar to engobing, but the front surface of the brick is treated with a composition that creates a thicker and more durable “crust” when melted).

Masonry section made of shotcrete bricks

The engobed coating attracts attention with smooth color transitions. They are obtained by applying a decorative layer not to the entire brick, but to its individual sections.

Glazed bricks are excellent not only for facade masonry, but also for laying stoves and decorating indoor walls.

It is advantageous to use shotcrete, engobe and glazed bricks as accents in facade decoration (corners, corbels, window frames). This technique brings a pleasant variety to the monotonous row of facial masonry.

Dimensions of facing bricks and approximate prices for 1 piece

The dimensions of the facing brick are established by GOST. The table shows the standard dimensions of this material.

Table #1

In addition to domestic GOST, the European standard operates on the market. He divides finishing blocks into two additional categories:

• NF - normal format dimensions 240x115x71 mm.
• DF - thin 240x115x52 mm (corresponds to architectural classics).

When buying, you should choose the material of only one standard (domestic or "euro"). Otherwise, the dressing of the seams will be broken and there will be problems with styling.

An example of a non-standard brick for facing 0.5 NF (250x60x65 mm)

Deciding for yourself which facing brick is better, you have to take into account the price factor. By tradition, prices for foreign products significantly exceed the cost of domestic building materials. The price increase is primarily played by the characteristics of the brick (size, strength, frost resistance), its decorative qualities and, of course, the prestige of the brand.

The cost of facing hollow ceramic bricks of a standard format (250x120x65 mm) is in the range from 12 to 20 rubles per 1 piece. For one and a half ceramic bricks, sellers ask from 20 to 28 rubles.

Clinker brick with a size of 250x85x65 mm (0.7 NF) with a smooth surface costs no less than 29 rubles per piece. For the same material, but with a textured edge, you will have to pay at least 34 rubles.

The price of a smooth hyper-pressed brick of a standard size starts at 23 rubles per 1 piece. You will have to pay a little more for textured material - 25-30 rubles / piece.

For one colored silicate brick (250x120x88 mm) with a smooth surface, sellers ask an average of 15 rubles. For a material with an embossed texture, you will have to pay 24-26 rubles.

The difference in prices for a domestic and imported product is impressive, the cost of some types of foreign blocks from the category of "elite" can reach 100-130 rubles. a piece.

An important issue that has to be addressed when buying is how many facing bricks are in 1m2 of masonry. You can easily decide on your order if you use our table.

Table number 2. The number of bricks for facing 1 m2 of the facade (thickness 0.5 bricks)

Shaped brick is a kind of facing brick products, it is also known as figured. The purpose of the shaped view, similar to the front view, is external and internal wall decoration, which allows you to create original architectural objects. However, the front and shaped products cannot be called absolutely identical, the latter have significant differences.

Characteristics of shaped bricks

Home hallmark shaped product is its shape, which may have rounded corners and ribs, as well as beveled edges, and it is not at all necessary that they are straight. Thanks to such an extraordinary form, shaped bricks are used to create masonry of increased complexity. With their help, rounded arches, columns, cornices and window sills are erected.

The cost of a shaped product is slightly higher than conventional face bricks. However, when there is a question about complex masonry, then its use is fully justified, because otherwise it will be necessary to customize the front products for the desired forms, which will negatively affect the time of work. Having chosen shaped bricks, you can immediately begin the masonry process.

Advantages of shaped bricks

Among the advantages of using shaped products, it is necessary to note their strength, reliability and resistance to low temperatures. According to these indicators, shaped bricks are in no way inferior to standard facing products.

It is possible to make shaped bricks to order according to an individual pattern, then the finished product is called a patterned brick. The use of such products allows you not to limit the design imagination and implement the most non-trivial ideas.

Facades made of facing bricks invariably attract admiring glances. Every developer knows that it is not enough to build strong walls. They need to be finished with such material that it helps to immediately get a triple benefit: it insulates, strengthens and decorates the building. These requirements are fully met by facing bricks. It is able to reliably protect external walls and increase their bearing capacity.

Brick, intended for facade decoration, is called differently:

• facing;
• facade;
• facial.

All this is the same material that has the properties necessary for high-quality finishing of the building. These stones are used to build the outer layer of the wall, which is in direct contact with environment and experience all its adverse effects. Therefore, special requirements are imposed on the technical characteristics of these products.

Depending on the type of materials used in the manufacture and the method of production, several types of facing bricks are distinguished:

• clinker;
• ceramic;
• hyperpressed;
• silicate.

These products have different performance characteristics, but there is one thing in common: they can all have a traditional parallelepiped or curly shape. Bricks of the second type are called shaped. Each of the options has its own production standards, which all manufacturers adhere to.

Bricks of the traditional form are:

• single;
• one and a half;
• thickened;
• double.

Each of the listed products can be solid or hollow (hollow). Stones of the second type may have different shape holes and their number.

Shaped bricks impress with their spectacular appearance. With the help of these building stones, you can realize the most original ideas of architects and designers.

Manufacturers offer shaped bricks of the following types:

• trapezoidal shape with beveled ribs;
• twisted;
• wedge-shaped;
• with a textured front surface (under the chipped or natural stone).

Spectacular appearance figured stones largely depends on the method of decorative processing of their surfaces.

Three technologies are used:

• glazing;
• shotting;
• engobing.

For facing the facade of a residential building, engobed bricks are more suitable. They have a matte surface and, due to the production method, have a lower coefficient of thermal conductivity. The engobing technology involves applying an additional layer of clay to the raw stone. It is he who makes the product more “warm”.

Engobed bricks

Glazed bricks have a glossy surface. The color range of such stones is very wide. Glazing can be applied in two ways: on the raw or finished product. Regardless of the technique, the quality and appearance of the product will be the same.

Torqueting is the process of applying mineral chips to the front surface of a brick. After firing, the product acquires a beautiful relief texture. Such stones are often used to emphasize the architectural elements of the building: arches, entrance group, window openings, cornices.

Ceramic brick shotcrete with mineral chips.

Pros and cons of clinker bricks

Clinker is one of the best representatives facing brick. Such interdependent characteristics as water absorption and frost resistance are at their best. These stones are able to withstand up to 300 freeze-thaw cycles (frost resistance factor F300). But the thermal conductivity is quite high: 0.7 W / (m * ° C). Durability - at least 100 years.

Among the features of this material is the duration of its masonry. This is due to the low water absorption coefficient. The stone slowly absorbs moisture from the solution, so working with it requires a certain skill.

The disadvantages of this material include the fact that even in one batch of clinker bricks, products of different shades are often found. This greatly complicates the masonry process and increases the construction time. Workers have to choose stones that are identical in color and most beautifully distribute those with a darker shade on the wall.

Clinker brick requires laying on special mortars. The cost of these compounds is high, as is the price of the material itself. There is the possibility of laying on a cement-sand mortar, but you need to know the recipe for preparing the mixture and be able to work with it. On a normal mortar, the clinker brick "floats".

Pros and cons of ceramic facing bricks

Ceramic bricks are distinguished by a variety of shapes and colors. The undoubted advantage of these products is environmental friendliness. At first glance, these stones look fragile due to a large number voids. But this is a misleading impression. Ceramic bricks are highly durable.

The main disadvantage of these stones is the errors in the geometry of the shape. This complicates the masonry process, as it is necessary to check the conformity of the sizes of the stones. Another drawback is limestone inclusions, which subsequently absorb moisture and begin to stand out on the wall surface with their more saturated color.

Pros and cons of hyper-pressed brick

The composition of hyperpressed brick includes shell rock, cement, special additives.

Advantages of this type of stones:

• perfectly even geometric shape;
• the same dimensions of all products of the same type;
• variety of colors;
• malleability in processing (easy to cut);
• high strength 150-300 kg/cm2;
• water absorption 5-6%;
• frost resistance F150;
• a wide range of shaped models.

Hyperpressed brick has practically no drawbacks. The disadvantages include a large weight (4.2-4.4 kg), which affects the cost of transportation and the laboriousness of the masonry.

Pros and cons of silicate facing bricks

Silicate brick is distinguished by regularity of forms and high strength. Among the advantages of this facing material is the ability to withstand high temperatures, ease of processing, high soundproofing characteristics, reasonable price.

Flaws:

• high thermal conductivity, which increases with moisture;
• large weight (single 3.3-3.6 kg, one and a half - 4-4.3 kg);
• uniformity of colors;
• high coefficient of moisture absorption;
• lack of shaped models.

Should I buy a hollow facade brick?

The peculiarity of most affordable stones of this type is that they have the maximum possible number of voids. This is due to the peculiarities of manufacturing technology and the desire of manufacturers to save money. For the same purpose, they (manufacturers) often make only two edges of the product face: one spoon and one poke. But such a decision is justified, since the stone is turned outward with only one of its sides. The size and shape of the voids can be different, respectively, the weight of the bricks is also different.

The facing layer is usually thin. Since behind it is a porous structure stone with many voids, the front layer does not receive enough heat from it and is often supercooled. This leads to the appearance of microcracks. Water penetrates into them, which periodically freezes and thaws. The wind and the rays of the sun contribute to the process of destruction. All this leads to sad consequences for the building. Therefore, one can often see facades, the front brick of which is partially destroyed.

The disadvantage of such building stones was first understood by the Europeans. They decided to halve the width of the product and strengthen its facing layer. Such material is today called "eurobrick".

Why is he good? A small width (2 times less than that of a standard stone) allows it to freeze less often. The adjacent wall transfers heat and thus helps to stabilize the temperature of the facing layer.

We conclude: when choosing a hollow facing brick, it is necessary, first of all, to pay attention to the thickness of its wall with the front layer. The thicker it is, the more durable the stone.

How to check the degree of water absorption of a brick when buying it

Not always the information reported by the manager of the building materials store is true. The point is not in the seller's desire to deceive the buyer, but in the fact that he operates with the data transmitted to him by the manufacturer.

A competent owner approaches the choice of building material extremely responsibly. He will definitely ask about all the characteristics of the product declared by the manufacturer. For such a buyer, information on how to choose a facing brick according to the degree of water absorption will be useful.

It is necessary to put next to all those products that were selected for comparison. A small amount of water is applied to each of them. You can use a spoon or any other object suitable for this purpose. Next, observe how quickly the building stones absorb water. Draw conclusions and make decisions. You can refer to the table.

Table. moisture absorption different types facing brick.

If possible, you need to find out if the face layer of the brick was treated with a water repellent at the factory. If yes, then you need to specify which ones. Most modern water repellents are made on a paraffin basis. The surface treated by them has a water-repellent property. But at the same time with this plus, the product immediately acquires two minuses.

1. The vapor permeability of the face layer of the brick is reduced. Moisture that comes out of the interior of the building through its outer walls meets an obstacle - a layer of water repellent. For this reason, condensation accumulates in the stone.
2. The pores closed with paraffin do not allow water to leave the brick. Therefore, after laying stones on a cement-sand mortar, their moisture level rises significantly and remains so for a long time.

In addition to paraffin, there are imported water repellents made on the basis of chemicals. But due to the high cost, they are rarely used by brick manufacturers. Facade hydrophobization is an important and necessary process. But it cannot be carried out in the first year after the completion of construction. It is necessary to wait until the stones are completely dry after laying.

Video - Facing brick for the facade. Which to choose?

Options for decorating facades with facing bricks

Any project of a public or industrial building must include a detailed description of the facade device. Architects and designers often use facing bricks to add personality to a building.

A private owner who has a built house can independently choose the finishing option and thereby realize his dream, and not other people's fantasies. In this difficult matter, information about the types of facing brick masonry and the most successful combinations of color and texture will be of great help.

The main technique that is used to design facades is highlighting with color.

There are two options:

• the use of a colored masonry mixture that contrasts or harmoniously combines with the color of the facing brick;

• use of building stones different color; in this way, you can emphasize the main lines of the building (arches, cornices, moldings) or highlight entire sectors.

There are many ways to decorate masonry. Each of them is original in its own way and is able to decorate the building.

Highlighting color in the design of facades

Types of facing brick masonry

When choosing a masonry pattern, you need to focus on the architectural style of the building. It should be noted that the fence, gate, entrance group of the house should form a single ensemble.

A frequently used technique for decorating facades is to emphasize corners and window openings with color or texture.

Underlining the color or texture of corners and window openings

In this case, different types of brick ligation can be used, which creates an additional decorative effect.

Harmonious combinations various kinds masonry allows you to create a series of ornaments that make the look of the house unique.

If you use a facing brick with a rough texture, the house will take on a deliberately brutal look.

Brick with a rough texture

The use of shaped bricks different type and size allows you to build spectacular decorative lines. Facade design can be very different. A variety of colors, textures and types of facing bricks allows you to make the house beautiful and cozy.

Facing brick laying

The technology of facade cladding is practically no different from the laying of ordinary ordinary bricks. Almost the same requirements are imposed on the process and quality of work. The difference is in the type of masonry and the type of binder used.

But finishing the facade with facing bricks is not an easy task. It requires masonry skills and knowledge of the nuances of working with each type of this facing material. In addition, the performer of the work must be extremely accurate and be fluent in all the tools necessary for masonry.

Most often in the process of facing facades use:

• trowel (the most convenient blade length is 18-19 cm);
• hammer-pick;
• mortar blade (for applying and distributing the binder over relatively large areas);
• jointing (necessary to give the masonry seams a beautiful shape);
• devices for control (ordering, mooring cords, rules).

Types of facing masonry

For finishing facades, the most spectacular types of brickwork are chosen.

1. Track. In this type of masonry, each row consists of bricks laid in a “spoon” and is offset from the previous one by ½ or ¼ bricks.
2. block. It is carried out by alternating rows, in one of which the brick is laid with a “spoon”, and in the next - with a “poke”.
3. cross. It is a type of block masonry, but is performed with an offset in every 2nd row by ½ brick. The result is a cruciform pattern in which each "spoon" is surrounded by a single "poke" at the top and bottom.
4. gothic. One of complex types facing masonry, which requires the accuracy of displacement of bricks. Consists of alternating rows of "spoons" and "pokes". In each next row, the “spoon” is shifted by ¼ of the length, and the “poke” by ½.

Cladding technology

Step 1. Preparation for laying on the mortar. Before laying the bricks on the mortar, always perform a “dry” laying.

It is necessary in order to:

• determine the required number of building stones;
• choose them by size and color;
• determine the required number of halves of the brick;
• determine the location of stones when making corners and openings.

During the placement of stones on the base, marks are made that will serve as a guide when laying on the mortar. At this stage of work, bricks are cut using a grinder equipped with a stone disc.

Step 2 Solution preparation. The mortar for facing brick laying differs from the standard one in that only sifted, preferably river sand, must be added to its composition. The proportions for the cement-sand mortar are standard: 1 part Portland cement grade not lower than M400, 3 parts sand, water, plasticizer, coloring pigment (if necessary). The consistency of the binder should be creamy. From a properly prepared solution, you can roll a soft ball.

Step 3 For laying the first row, perform the following steps:

• determine the highest point of the base;
• a reinforcing mesh is laid on the waterproofing coating;
• install, focusing on the marks made during the "dry" masonry, two corner bricks;
• pull a thread between them so that it indicates the height of the row;
• perform laying of intermediate bricks, making sure that the seam between them is of the same width (optimally 8-10 mm);
• in order for the brick to fall into place, it is knocked out with a pick;
• stitching is used to align and decorate the seams.

Step 4 Masonry according to the drawing. For ligation of facing masonry with a bearing wall, metal anchors are used, which are deepened into the wall by at least 10 mm. Perform additional reinforcement of corners and openings with reinforcement rods. Anchors are installed in increments of 2-2.5 bricks. The brick is laid in accordance with the masonry pattern.

When performing facing work, it is necessary to ensure that the cement-sand mortar does not stain the front surface of the building stones. If cement gets on it, it must be immediately removed with a dry rag. Every 4-5 rows of facing masonry, the wall is wiped with a damp cloth.

Video - Brick cladding

Every person wants to be the owner beautiful home. A truly complex and original project will be carried out with such a building material as a figured brick. It will help to avoid a rather problematic and unpleasant procedure for cutting and fitting.

Shaped brick is an environmentally friendly natural product with special properties. In addition, due to its exclusive appearance, it makes it possible to implement a lot of design ideas in the design.

Forms

Lining products are:

• rectangular (standard);
• curly.

The standard one wears parameters 230x125x65 mm.

The figure shows the names of the sides.

Possible variations:

Rectangular model with one corner. Radius from 55 - 165 mm. Tilt 45. It has three relief bases.

Optimal for:

• Construction of pillars and fences
• Corner decorations
• Decoration of windows and doorways

Orthogonal type with two rough surfaces and a flattened spoon. Bevel angle poke 45.

The sample has 1 flat surface, which ensures a flat and neat seam.

Good for:

• Wall cladding and base masonry
• For the basement of the building.

Trapeze. Ttychek is beveled at an angle of 30-45. It is placed on edge, and a smooth spoon is the key to a straight seam.

Suitable for:

• Span of plinth compartment
• Fence devices

Semicircle. The butt is cut off at 55°.

Suitable for:

• Designs of decorative components
• Arches and portals

Key figures

When choosing, you should notice the main factors that determine its quality.

• Strength. It is designated by the letter "M" and a number of numbers indicating the pressure that the element is able to withstand per 1 cm2.
• Frost resistance. It is marked with the symbol "F" and indicates the number of cycles of transition through zero temperature, which can withstand during wet.
• Size. Everything is simple, but there is important nuance, what in different countries(factories) their criteria for dimensions.

It is also worth noting that the fireplace requires compliance with the following standards:

• Fire resistance - the product must be fired, hyperpressed in this case will not work
• Good thermal conductivity and heat dissipation
• Be resistant to thermal shock
• Does not absorb moisture

Application methods

It is used in the construction of structures of extreme configuration. Most often it is used to create:

• Cottages
• Furnaces
• Arbors
• Various structures to decorate the landscape
• interior design
• Bay windows

This product allows you to easily and quickly create an intricate object that is guaranteed to look bright and unusual. In addition to its bizarre shape, it also has a number of unique technical characteristics that make it indispensable in the erection of housing.

Advantages

If we talk about the value of the product, then it is necessary to note the following: specifications:

• Non-standard appearance
• Large range of colors and textures
• Ease of installation (due to the fact that the building material is full-bodied)
• Ease of any machining
• The highest level of strength and frost resistance

Due to the above features, the products are in demand and are widely used in construction and interior decoration, as well as the development of other architectural objects.

Where can I buy?

You can buy goods in Moscow from us. We supply you with goods from the manufacturer, which guarantees:

• Affordable price
• Euro quality
• Huge selection shades

In addition, Brickstone offers its customers:

• Delivery
• Convenient and prompt placement and implementation of the request
• Strict adherence to deadlines
• Providing all required documents
• Help manager

You can place an order by phone or on the website.