When starting a new project, there are several different external wall options for you to compare during specification.
Wood cladding, metal cladding, terracotta… the list goes on.
However, in this blog, we are going to explore brick slip cladding systems and how they have become a versatile solution for external walls specification.
As there are various different forms of brick cladding systems, how do you know that you’re specifying the correct one for your exterior wall? What makes brick cladding the best choice for your next project? How does using brick slips make an impact?
We aim to answer these questions and offer expert advice on brick slip cladding, so you can be confident in your next specification!
Brick Cladding Vs Brick Slip Cladding
Although this blog focuses on brick slip cladding, let’s first clarify the difference between this and regular brick cladding.
Brick slip cladding and regular brick cladding differ primarily in their application and construction methods.
Regular brick cladding involves using full-sized bricks that are laid directly on the building’s exterior wall. On the other hand, brick slip cladding utilises thin slices or “slips” of bricks that are adhered to the surface with the help of adhesive or mechanical fixings.
This method offers greater design flexibility and reduces the weight load on the building’s structure compared to regular brick cladding. Despite the difference in installation, both options maintain the classic charm and durability associated with brick, providing versatile and aesthetically appealing solutions for exterior walls.
So, why choose brick slips for your cladding system?
1. Aesthetic Appeal and Versatility Of Brick Slip Cladding
Brick slip cladding offers an array of aesthetic options that can elevate the visual appeal of any building.
With a wide range of brick colours, textures, and patterns available, you have the creative freedom to achieve the desired look for their project. For example, laying brick slips vertically or using long format slips is possible with no extra cost. Experimenting with laying patterns is much easier when using brick slips, as is combining different brick slips finishes within the same façade.
Creating bespoke blends for a project is easy and can be preblended at the factory to make installation easier.
It is worth noting that one of the significant advantages of brick slip cladding is its compatibility with other construction materials. Designers can combine brick slips with materials like glass, metal, or wood to create striking and contemporary design elements.
Furthermore, brick slip cladding can be specified as a complete wall covering, or strategically as an accent feature to enhance the overall design. It can be applied to specific sections of the building’s façade, providing contrast and visual interest.
2. A Lightweight and Space-Efficient Solution
One of the key advantages of brick slip cladding is its lightweight nature, which offers several benefits during the construction and design phases. Traditional brickwork can be heavy, adding substantial load-bearing requirements to the building’s structure.
Brick slips are attractive due to being less than half the size of an average brick, meaning:
- Less vehicles needed to transport the material which leads to lower fuel consumption and greenhouse gas emissions.
- Less labour needed to create the project, meaning less costing overall.
- Reduced construction waste due to brick slip cladding’s thin profile requires less cutting and trimming during installation.
- Energy efficiency benefits as a result of brick slip cladding allowing the inclusion of additional insulation layers between the cladding and the building’s structure.
Moreover, brick slip cladding systems allows architects to maximise the available interior space. The slim profile of the brick slips takes up less room on the exterior surface compared to regular bricks. As a result, there is more space available for insulation, or for occupants inside the building, translating into larger floor areas and increased design flexibility.
For architects designing buildings in heavily built-up areas, this is a factor that will decrease many project challenges and costs.
1. Enhanced Energy Efficiency When Using Brick Slip Cladding Systems
In 2023, every project is, or should be, striving to achieve a carbon-neutral economy. Brick slip cladding goes beyond its aesthetic charm to deliver tangible benefits in terms of thermal insulation and energy efficiency. It helps decrease the demand for fossil fuels and reduces greenhouse gas emissions that contribute to global warming and climate change.
brick slip cladding offers space for enhanced insulation, and effectively forms a continuous thermal barrier, minimising heat transfer through the walls.
Ultimately, a more energy-efficient building requires less energy for heating and cooling, translating into reduced energy consumption and lower utility bills. The integration of brick slip cladding can contribute significantly to achieving green building certifications such as BREEAM (Building Research Establishment Environmental Assessment Method) by meeting stringent energy performance standards.
Brick Slip Cladding Systems: How To Utilise Their Benefits
In conclusion, brick slip cladding emerges as a versatile and sustainable solution for modern exterior walls. Its aesthetic appeal, versatility, and lightweight nature make it a popular choice among architects seeking to create visually stunning and environmentally responsible buildings.
While various cladding options exist for exterior walls, brick slip cladding stands out as quality and sustainable choice for the future.
The range of colours, textures, and patterns available in brick slip cladding provides endless design possibilities, and the lightweight characteristic of brick slips not only simplifies the installation process but also reduces material consumption and transportation emissions.
As the world shifts towards environmentally responsible practices, brick slip cladding stands at the forefront of sustainable architecture. Its ability to provide durability, energy efficiency, and timeless aesthetics makes it an invaluable tool in project design.
If you are feeling inspired to specify brick slip cladding for your next project, make sure to get in touch with a company like Creative Brick Solutions.
Alongside the extensive brick range, Creative Brick Solutions can provide expert advice on various building systems that can be paired with brick slips, to ensure you are specifying the right product for your project!
FAQ’s
What is brick slip cladding, and how is it different from traditional brick cladding?
Brick slip cladding involves using thin slices or “slips” of bricks that are adhered or mechanically fixed to the building’s exterior surface. This provides the authentic appearance of traditional brickwork without the weight and space constraints of full-sized bricks
What are the sustainability benefits of using brick slip cladding?
Brick slip cladding offers several sustainability benefits. Its lightweight nature reduces material consumption and transportation emissions, contributing to an eco-friendlier supply chain. The enhanced thermal insulation of brick slip cladding wall build up leads to improved energy efficiency, lower energy consumption, and reduced greenhouse gas emissions.
How does brick slip cladding compare to other types of cladding in terms of aesthetics?
Brick slip cladding provides the genuine and authentic appearance of traditional brickwork, setting it apart from cladding materials that attempt to imitate bricks’ texture and character. It offers a wide range of colours, textures, and patterns, allowing architects to create visually stunning designs.
What are the advantages of brick slip cladding over other cladding materials regarding durability and maintenance?
Brick slip cladding boasts exceptional durability and longevity compared to materials like timber, vinyl, or composite cladding. It is resilient to weathering, UV exposure, and impacts, requiring minimal maintenance over time.