7 Types of Bricks and When to Use Them in Masonry Projects
Make a solid choice
From burnt clay to concrete to fly ash, there are quite a few types of bricks used in residential construction today. So, how do you know which kind is right for your home? It all depends on the purpose and goal of your project. Let’s take a look at seven popular types to help you choose the best option.
| Type of Brick | Common Uses |
|---|---|
| Burnt clay | Foundations, walls, columns |
| Sun-dried | Temporary structures |
| Concrete | Internal brickwork or walls, fences, facades |
| Engineering | Basements, sewers |
| Fire | Chimneys, fireplaces, brick ovens |
| Fly ash | Foundations, walls |
| Sand lime | Thermal and sound insulation |
1. Burnt Clay Bricks
These versatile bricks are the most common types of bricks used in modern construction (including brick homes). They’re made by placing wet clay into a mold and then firing it in a kiln.
Depending on their quality, burnt clay bricks are categorized into one of four classes. Class 1 bricks are the highest quality and most durable, while Class 4 bricks are the poorest quality and not good to use in structural projects.
| Pros | Cons |
|---|---|
| Cost-effective | Can get moldy |
| Offers the classic red brick look | Not all types are suitable for permanent structures |
| Wide variety of uses | Lower-grade types can fade or discolor |
Best for: All types of masonry projects, including foundations, walls, and columns
2. Sun-Dried Bricks
Created with mud and placed in the sun to harden, sun-dried bricks—also called mud bricks—are commonly used to build adobe homes. They aren’t as durable as many other types of bricks, so they’re often best for temporary structures. However, these bricks are also less expensive to produce than other kinds.
Sun-dried bricks work best in hot or dry climates. During the day, they absorb heat from the sun. At night, they slowly release the heat, which helps with temperature regulation.
| Pros | Cons |
|---|---|
| Inexpensive | Not durable |
| Good for temporary structures | May be affected by water or impact |
| Can help with temperature regulation | Shorter lifespan |
Best for: Temporary use or projects in hot, dry regions
3. Concrete Bricks
As you might guess, these bricks are created from solid concrete. Because they’re made by pouring concrete into custom molds, concrete bricks are available in a variety of sizes. During the production process, manufacturers can also add pigment to customize the color of the bricks.
Thanks to their durability and hardness, concrete bricks are often used in modern construction—for both internal and external locations, like fences and walls. However, since concrete is porous, this type of brick isn’t suitable for underground use due to the risk of water damage.
| Pros | Cons |
|---|---|
| Highly durable | Costly |
| Sleek, modern aesthetic | Can sustain water damage |
| Versatile uses | Reduced lifespan |
Best for: Internal brickwork or outdoor walls, fences, and facades
4. Engineering Bricks
Primarily made from clay, engineering bricks may also contain other materials to enhance certain properties. Engineering bricks are less susceptible to water and chemical damage than concrete and clay bricks, so they’re likely to last longer.
Due to their strength, density, and durability, engineering bricks are ideal for structural applications. You’ll find them in basements, sewers, and other underground areas where strength and water resistance is essential.
| Pros | Cons |
|---|---|
| Resistant to water and chemicals | More expensive |
| Low porosity | Can put pressure on surrounding mortar |
| Can bear heavy weight | Not the most attractive option |
Best for: Structural and underground applications, including basements and sewers
5. Fire Bricks
Fire bricks—or refractory bricks—are best suited for areas that receive direct exposure to fire, including chimneys and fireplaces. They contain a mixture of silica and aluminum oxide, which makes them extremely resistant to heat and fire and able to withstand temperatures of up to 3,000 degrees.
Although fire bricks are excellent in high-heat areas, they aren’t suitable for whole-house use. If you’re replacing or installing brick in multiple parts of your home, a local masonry pro can recommend the best types of bricks for each area.
| Pros | Cons |
|---|---|
| High heat and fire resistance | Pricey |
| Won’t crack from temperature changes | Limited applications |
| Can be used indoors and outdoors | Maintenance can be difficult when used outdoors |
Best for: Areas exposed to heat and fire, including chimneys, fireplaces, fire pits, and brick ovens
6. Fly Ash Bricks
As the name would suggest, one of the main materials in these bricks is fly ash (a byproduct of coal production), which contains toxic metals that are otherwise unrecyclable. Because they include reused materials and require less energy to produce, fly ash bricks are more environmentally friendly than burnt clay bricks.
Lighter than clay bricks, fly ash bricks are durable and able to withstand extreme temperatures. However, they don’t retain heat as effectively as some other types of bricks, so they aren’t the best option in cold regions.
| Pros | Cons |
|---|---|
| Less expensive to produce | Not as widely available as other bricks |
| Better for the environment | Not ideal for cold climates |
| Resistant to high temperatures | Can’t always be used for construction |
Best for: People looking for a more eco-friendly alternative to burnt clay bricks
7. Sand Lime Bricks
Also called calcium silicate bricks, sand lime bricks include a mixture of sand, fly ash, and lime. They can withstand heavy weights and are good for thermal insulation, which is why they’re often used for high-rise buildings.
Sand lime bricks are also known for their aesthetic appeal due to their smoothness and uniform shape. Manufacturers can add pigment to change the color of the bricks for decorative purposes.
| Pros | Cons |
|---|---|
| Good compressive strength | Costly |
| Great thermal and sound insulation | Less fire resistant |
| Smooth, uniform appearance | Can get damp and grow mold |
Best for: Improving thermal and acoustic insulation
How Do I Choose the Right Type of Brick?
Each type of brick serves a different purpose, so the best one will depend on where you’re using it. For example, if you’re looking for a budget-friendly way to repair or replace bricks on your home, then burnt clay bricks could be a good option. If you need extra sound insulation, then sand lime bricks might be a better pick. Building a new chimney or fireplace? Fire bricks are your best bet.
Yes, bricks can crack over time. While spotting a crack (or several) might be nerve-wracking, cracked bricks aren’t always cause for concern. In fact, it’s normal to see a few small cracks as your foundation settles. However, if the cracks are getting wider or longer or you keep finding new ones, you should have a masonry professional inspect them right away. You should also contact a pro if you notice any large or vertical cracks in your bricks.
On average, installing brick siding on a house costs $15 per square foot. For a 2,000-square-foot property, that comes out to $30,000. But if you’re planning to build a brick house from scratch, you’ll likely pay between $200,000 and $400,000. For both projects, your costs depend on the type of brick, labor prices in your area, and several other factors.
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