Types of Bricks

Bricks can be classified based on their composition, manufacturing process, and application. Below are the most common types:

1. Clay Bricks

• Burnt Clay Bricks: Traditional bricks used in most construction projects. They are strong, durable, and suitable for load-bearing walls.
• Unburnt Clay Bricks: Sun-dried bricks, typically used for temporary structures.

2. Fly Ash Bricks

• Made from fly ash, cement, and sand, these bricks are eco-friendly, lightweight, and provide excellent thermal insulation.

3. Concrete Bricks

• Composed of cement and aggregate, these bricks are often used in modern construction for their uniform size and strength.

4. Engineering Bricks

• High-strength bricks designed for load-bearing structures and damp-proof courses, with low porosity.

5. Sand Lime Bricks

• Produced by mixing sand and lime, these bricks have a smooth finish and are suitable for architectural facades.

6. Fire Bricks

• Specially designed to withstand high temperatures, fire bricks are used in fireplaces, kilns, and furnaces.

Bricks in masonry are classified not only by material but also by their shapes and sizes, which influence their use in construction. Below are the common types of bricks based on their shape and function:

1. Full Bricks

• The standard-sized bricks, rectangular in shape, used in most masonry work. They are uncut and form the primary building blocks of a wall.

2. Queen Closures

• Definition: A brick cut lengthwise into two equal halves.
• Application: Used to close gaps at corners or between other bricks in a bonding pattern, especially in English and Flemish bonds.

3. King Closures

• Definition: A brick cut diagonally from one corner to the opposite end, resulting in a triangular shape.
• Application: Commonly used in arches and other specialized masonry to maintain alignment and aesthetics.

4. Half Bricks

• Definition: Bricks cut into two equal parts along their width.
• Application: Typically used to fill smaller gaps in walls or for decorative purposes.

5. Beveled Bricks

• Definition: Bricks with edges or corners chamfered at an angle.
• Application: Often used for decorative work, including door and window frames.

6. Bullnose Bricks

• Definition: Bricks with rounded edges.
• Application: Ideal for creating smooth curves in corners, steps, or decorative elements.

7. Bat Bricks

• Definition: A portion of a brick, usually less than half, cut longitudinally or transversely.
• Application: Used in specific areas to adjust lengths and maintain symmetry in bonds.

Types of Bonds in Brick Masonry

The way bricks are arranged in a wall, known as bonding, plays a crucial role in its strength and appearance. Below are the most common types of bonds:

1. English Bond

• In English bond, header and stretcher are laid in alternate courses as shown below.

2. Flemish Bond

• In Flemish Bond, each course comprises of alternate header and stretcher.
• Flemish Bond may be further classified as
  • Double Flemish Bond
  • Single Flemish Bond

3. Header Bond

4. Stretcher Bond

Note: All sketches are drawn by Om Kashyap (B. Arch Student, JMI)