10 Different Types of Bricks Used for Indian Construction

We have often heard that “the core must be strong.” For a building, the core is often the bricks that are used.

So,

What are Bricks?

A building material that is typically made of sand, lime, clay or concrete, that what we call a brick. For generations, bricks have been used for many construction purposes, including pavement, wall construction, home construction and many more.

So, are you using the right brick for your dream house? Here we have a list of the 10 different types of bricks used in construction and which one is the best for your dream house.

Bricks are the most vital for construction, and they are often the bedrock of most of the construction. In these modern days, the types of bricks used in building construction have become more refined, with better strength and stability, all at a lower cost.

So, what are the best types of bricks used in construction?

10 Different Types of Bricks

• Sun-dried bricks

• Burnt clay bricks

• Fly ash bricks

• Concrete Bricks

• Engineering Bricks

• Sand lime or calcium silicate Bricks

• Porotherm Smart Bricks

• Fire Bricks

• Jhama Bricks

• Hollow Bricks.

Let's explore!

1. Sun-dried bricks:

Unburnt bricks or sundried bricks are the first and most basic examples of bricks. The process of making these bricks lies in the name itself. Not burnt but dried in the sun for hardening, often used in rural areas or temporary constructions. They are not as strong, have reduced fire and water resistance, and hence are best when left to temporary structures in our list of types of bricks used on construction.

2. Burnt clay bricks:

The most widely used among the types of bricks used in construction, gaining it the name ‘common brick.’ Used in the construction of important structures such as columns, walls, and the foundation of the building. They come mainly of four types:

• First-class bricks (best quality bricks)

• Second-class bricks (moderate quality)

• Third-class bricks (poor quality)

• Fourth-class bricks (over-burnt and in irregular shape)

3. Fly ash bricks:

Specifically used for masonry, it contains class C or class F fly ash, which is a by-product that we get from burning coal mixed with water, which is then fired at 1000 degrees Celsius. The high amount of calcium oxide makes class C fly ash make it the best among the types of bricks used in construction for pillars, foundations, and walls. Often referred to as “self-cementing” brick.

What are the main Fly Ash Bricks Advantages?

• High Fire Insulation

• High Strength

• Uniform Sizes for Better Joints and Plaster

• Lower Water Penetration.

They do not require soaking before use in construction. Thus fly ash bricks make one of the best types of bricks used in India.

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4. Concrete Bricks:

Manufactured using concrete with ingredients such as cement, sand, and water. They can be manufactured into bricks of all types and sizes. Using concrete bricks over clay bricks means that they can be readily manufactured at a construction site. This can also help in the reduction of the amount of mortar required for the construction itself. Another common and rather popular type of brick used in construction.

5. Engineering Bricks:

Used especially for its strength, cold resistance, and fire resistance, are the engineering bricks. Most are used for basements, where chemical and water resistance is required more than average. They are also known for their low porosity. The strength option among the types of bricks used in construction.

6. Sand lime or calcium silicate Bricks:

Made using sand and lime, popularly known as sand-lime bricks. These bricks are used in the construction sector for several purposes and are one of the primary types of bricks used in India. Artistic works, including ornamental works in buildings, incorporate sand-lime or calcium-silicate bricks.

These bricks are chemically set bricks, which means that the process is completed using heat and pressure elements to accelerate the chemical reaction. They have a smooth finish, and acoustic insulation, and excellent fire resistance are primarily used by artists to make their art shine.

7. Porotherm Smart Bricks:

Hollow bricks, often referred to as the ‘eco brick,’ are an intelligent way of using natural clay to make hollow bricks. These hollow bricks can either be horizontally or vertically perforated. Perforated means “pierce and make a hole or holes in.”

They are more modern, and used in many residential and commercial projects. High strength, thermal insulation, and a 100% eco-friendly nature all for a lower than regular cost make it the best among the different types of bricks used for houses.

8. Fire Bricks:

Also known as the refractory bricks. Manufactured from a specially designed earthing process. After it is burned, it can withstand extremely high temperatures through its fire-resistance properties. This is all done without affecting the desires, shape, size, and compromising strength. Thus it is one of the common types of bricks used in India, especially in the rural and dry regions.

This is used for the lining of chimneys and furnaces where the temperature rates are usually extremely high.

9. Jhama Bricks:

Jhama Bricks are also known as ‘overburnt bricks” or ‘vitrified brick as it is fired at a high temperature and for a longer duration of time compared to conventional bricks. The shape is distorted but has a higher absorption capacity, and the strength is considerably higher or equal to a first-class brick. Often used in slab and beam construction using concrete where it does not encounter water normally.

10. Hollow Bricks:

Around one-third of the weight of the normal bricks, as the name suggests, are hollow inside, these bricks are also called cellular or cavity bricks. These bricks are used extensively for quick construction as they can be laid much quicker than the normal ones. These bricks are also used in partitioning in the construction process.

11. Glazed Bricks:

Glazed bricks are an excellent alternative for bringing beauty and usefulness into high-moisture areas such as bathrooms and kitchens. Their smooth, glossy finish produces a non-porous surface, making them perfect for water-prone areas. This impermeable quality allows for easy cleaning and maintenance, limiting the possibility of mold or mildew formation and keeping your room fresh and clean. Furthermore, glazed bricks are available in a range of colors and textures, allowing you to add style to your walls while also providing longevity and low maintenance in these demanding areas.

12. Soil Bricks:

Soil Bricks, manufactured from compressed stabilized earth, are an environmentally beneficial and sustainable construction material. These bricks provide great thermal insulation, making them extremely energy-efficient for keeping indoor temperatures stable. Their manufacturing approach produces a substantially reduced carbon footprint than typical burnt bricks. Soil bricks are ideal for natural or low-carbon footprint construction projects since they promote environmentally conscious building practices and help to create robust and resilient structures.

13. Laterite Bricks:

Laterite bricks, made from naturally occurring laterite soil rich in iron and aluminum oxides, are a popular traditional and ecological building material in South India. This laterite soil is the result of the laterization process, in which weathering breaks down rocks and releases minerals. These bricks are valued for their exceptional durability, withstanding the weather for decades. They also have excellent thermal insulation capabilities, keeping buildings cool in hot climates and warm in chilly environments. This equates to energy savings and a more comfortable atmosphere all year.

14. Terracotta Bricks:

Terracotta bricks are made from burned clay and are known for their rich, reddish-brown color. This natural material has a distinct combination of aesthetic appeal and remarkable durability, making it an adaptable option for both interior and exterior design aspects. Terracotta bricks add rustic beauty to architectural features, and their inherent strength makes them suitable for flooring and roofing. So, if you're looking for a material that combines long-lasting strength with natural elegance, terracotta bricks are a tempting option for your next construction project.

15. Paving Bricks:

Paving bricks are the workhorses of outdoor environments. Engineered for strength and durability, they can endure heavy foot traffic, vehicle weight on driveways, and extreme weather conditions. This makes them ideal for building beautiful, long-lasting walks, patios, and driveways. Paving bricks are available in a variety of shapes, sizes, and colors in addition to their purpose. This enables you to build magnificent designs that match your landscaping and architectural style. From classic herringbone patterns to innovative circular shapes, the options are limitless. So, don't just settle for a plain concrete slab – add a touch of style and functionality to your outdoor space with paving bricks.

Advantages and disadvantages of using bricks for construction:

Advantages:

• Brick is a durable material and is long-lasting.

• The brick is fireproof and can withstand exposure to high temperatures.

• Brick does not require the application of paints for protection against the environment.

• Issues with individual bricks can be addressed without the need to bring down and rebuild the entire structure.

• Readily available clay helps in bricks being able for local creation, eliminating the costs of their shipment. This can mean that construction using brick as a material may be less expensive than using stone, concrete, or steel.

Disadvantages:

• Time-consuming construction.

• Can break under high seismic pressure

• Since bricks absorb water readily, it may cause a lack of airflow

• Less tensile strength.

• Cleaning brick surfaces is a hard job.

Now as we give you an overview of bricks, explore these 10 steps to be followed before Constructing a House!

These are the different types of bricks used in India, often alternating between them; civil engineers have a broader base to use to construct buildings of all shapes and sizes. We hope that we have helped to step closer to your dream home with different properties and types of bricks used in construction.

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