Clay and concrete bricks are among the most widely used materials for masonry projects. You have the choice of both options at Nitterhouse Masonry for your next project. The right choice depends on several factors, but each can and often is used for the same applications to create different aesthetics. Learn when you should use each and how they differ today.
The Differences Between Clay and Concrete Brick
The differences in these brick types start with how they’re made:
- Fired clay brick: Think of clay bricks like pottery — though their thickness makes them much more durable than your standard bowl or vase. These bricks are formed from natural lumps of clay and then fired. The firing process sets the color and enhances the brick’s strength, but it can also extend the production process by days.
- Concrete masonry brick: As its name suggests, this type of brick is made from concrete — a mix of Portland cement and aggregate. Instead of being fired, these bricks require a much shorter curing period. They are also widely considered to be more customizable in regard to color and size.
These varied manufacturing processes impact the bricks’ appearance.
Appearance and Design Flexibility
The appearance of your bricks will be one of the first things people notice about the final build. In the debate of concrete bricks vs. clay bricks, the right choice for your design comes down to personal preference. Clay bricks offer a classic aesthetic of warm, earthy tones. Color options are limited, but the palette remains exceptionally consistent between batches of bricks.
Conversely, concrete bricks offer a wider range of colors, sizes and finishes, making it easier for projects to establish a custom profile, especially with unique casts such as those from our Nicrete Brick Series. The variety of appearance options also allows versatility in finish options for brick, such as the ones you’ll find in our Nicrete Traditional Brick Series.
Durability and Strength
When considering types of brick for construction, product strength is at the forefront of most builders’ minds. Both brick types offer exceptional durability:
- Clay: After firing, clay bricks are extremely hard and durable. They have a long history of being used as building materials worldwide, giving them a proven track record that extends for centuries. While clay may not offer the same range of colors as concrete, its color has superior lasting power due to it being “baked in” to the material.
- Concrete: These bricks are used in commercial and residential projects. The concrete is made with cement and is integrated throughout the brick to give it a distinctive color, which does not fade.
Cost
The good news about these types of construction bricks is that whichever you choose, the overall cost is about the same from the original material purchase and throughout the project.
Which Brick Is Better for My Job?
Clay bricks vs. concrete bricks — when it comes down to it, which one should you go with?
Clay brick shines in many challenging projects. We recommend it for historical restoration projects, facades, and similar jobs.
Concrete brick is an excellent choice for property owners seeking greater aesthetic flexibility. It offers broader color choices, more sizes, varied finishes and white brick options that clay cannot provide.
Please note that these are general recommendations, and both brick types can serve residential and commercial property owners well. The best choice for your specific project will depend on the project type and aesthetic needs. If you are still unsure which option to choose, partner with an experienced supplier of both products that can help you decide.
Find Clay and Concrete Bricks at Nitterhouse Masonry
Nitterhouse Masonry is ready to help you make your next construction project your most successful one yet. Contact us to request a sample, or find a dealer today to get started.
