Can Thin Brick Be Used Both Outdoors and Indoors?
Thin brick. Don’t let the name fool you. This popular material may be thin and lightweight, but it can stand up to some serious wear and tear. Thin brick is made of the same material as full-bed brick, but in slimmer proportions, usually about two centimetres thick. It comes in a variety of styles and colours, ready to be applied to any surface with adhesive.
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So, can thin brick be used both outdoors and indoors? Definitely. In fact, it’s one of our favourite building materials for exterior and interior projects. Here’s why.
Why Use Thin Brick for Your Projects?
Sturdy and Durable
With a little maintenance, thin brick can last for decades. Rain showers. Snow blizzards. Heat waves. Even household spills and mishaps. Whatever happens, thin brick stays looking great year after year.
Lightweight
Since thin brick is only a couple of centimetres thick, it’s much lighter than full-bed brick. Which means it’s easier to transport and handle. Plus, it won’t add extra stress to the walls and foundation of your property.
Versatility
But perhaps the best part of thin brick is how many ways it can be used. From a subtle design accent to a major architectural element, thin brick is a beautiful way to upgrade the look and feel of your property.
Read on for some of the most popular and exciting ways to use thin brick.
Incredible Ways to Use Thin Brick
Exteriors
- Outdoor Kitchens and Fireplaces
Create the perfect setting for meals, gatherings, and cozy evenings under the stars - Patios
Transform your backyard space into the envy of the neighbourhood and a relaxing oasis for family, friends, and pets - Porches
Make your entryway into a welcoming and memorable “moment of arrival” experience - Exposed Foundation Walls
Turn a basic structural element into a defining architectural feature
Interiors
- Accent Walls
Create a stunning visual focal point in any room - Kitchen Backsplashes
Add texture and personality to the heart of your home - Hearths
Make your living areas into inviting places to gather and unwind
Find Thin Brick Types for Every Project
For every project, preference, and price point, there is a range of thin brick options to choose from.
Traditional tones, like Hebron’s Winston, offer the classic look of brick, without the hassle and expense of traditional brick masonry. But reds and oranges are just the beginning. Timeless neutrals, like King Klinker’s Winter Field, are a great way to add a touch of sophistication that never goes out of style.
Then, there’s the matter of texture. From smooth and uniform to mottled and artfully distressed, textures add another layer of style and impact. Use textures to mimic the look of existing features and properties, for a look that blends in seamlessly with the surrounding area. Or consider adding a retro or historical flourish with innovative thin brick options that evoke beloved architectural styles, like Hebron’s Bootlegger, a stunning thin brick made from natural clay, styled after the speakeasies of the 1930s.
The options are endless. For more, shop I-XL products by brand:
Endicott
Glen-Gery
H.C. Muddox
Hebron Brick
Interstate Brick
King Klinker
Or check out our design inspiration page for even more ideas.
Tips for Expert Thin Brick Application
When applying thin brick, the details matter! So take the time to make sure you’ve checked all the boxes before grabbing your tools and mixing up your adhesive.
First, check with the local authorities to ensure you’re meeting all the regulations for a safe build, including height ordinances and water drainage.
If you’re working with a professional designer or builder, it’s also important to consult with them to ensure that the thin brick products they’ve selected are appropriate for the project specifications and their intended use. And that advice extends to all of the project materials, not just the thin brick pieces. In Canada’s freeze-and-thaw winter conditions, for example, it’s essential to choose an adhesive mortar that can stand up to the elements.
For more tips, check out The Brick Industry Association’s Technical Guide. It provides a great overview and insider info that will help both beginners and experienced builders create beautiful, professional results.
Why Choose I-XL for Your Thin Brick
With so many options to choose from, it helps to have some expert guidance. As a preferred supplier of premium building materials in Canada, we have the experience and expertise to help you find what you need — quickly, affordably, and with a smile. We work with designers, builders, architects, and DIYers looking to upgrade their homes. Get in touch for a quote today.
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