Brick slips.

Brick slips

The use of real bricks on buildings is complex and clumsy. Real bricks are usually thick and heavy in weight hence the idea of brick slips for a complete replica of real brick was initialized. Brick slips are non load bearing thin slices of brick veneer.These thin slices of bricks have come to replace the real bricks as it possesses all the qualities of real brick and then some. It has the natural semblance to real bricks, light in weight, comes in different sizes, colors, styles and textures and Eco-friendly.
Brick slips are produced from clay or sometimes from concrete or plastic. It is produced by either by sawing off the face of an old full brick leaving the thin brick veneer slips or by cutting extruded clay into thin slices and desired sizes; and then fired up in a kiln.

Advantages of using Brick Slips.

1. They are widely used as a replica for real brick, cheaper and come in various colors, textures and sizes.
2. Easy alignment of lines when cladding.
3. It adheres easily to surfaces.
4. It is quicker and easy to install.
5. It can be used both in exterior and interior of buildings.
6. They are porous, allowing the wall to breathe in and let out air.
7. They are fire resistance and so quite good for wall insulation.
8. They last long, don’t easily wear out and are maintenance free.
9. They make a great brick veneer wall finish.
10. It can withstand any weather condition.

How to install brick slips.

To install brick slips you will need different tools; for different purposes to aide you. And these are trowel, tape measure, pencil, boat level, spacers, level and pointing iron.

First of all make sure the wall surface you’re about to use is dust, oil and dirt free. Measure out the size of the surface for the slips and calculate the number of brick slips to be used. Prepare the mortar by mixing cement with water. Sand and lime can also be added for a stronger adhesion.

With the help of trowel, apply the mixed mortar to the back of a brick slip and press it hard on the surface, moving the brick around a little to adhere well on the surface of the wall. Leave spacers of about two inches under the bricks and sides of the bricks as you lay. Adjust the brick slips when necessary for an even alignment with the use of boat level.

Once all the brick slips are installed, remove the spacers and fill the gaps with mortar. This is called grouting. Grouting bags should be used for easy and tidy application. Leave the brick slips to dry for at least an hour. Use a pointing iron to level out the grout in the joints. Excess mortar should be gently brushed off with bristle brush and cleaned with a damp sponge.