Common Brick Types Explained: Sizes, Uses and Differences
Brick is not one single product. Bricks are manufactured for different purposes, appearances and performance requirements, from decorative facing brick to engineering and fire-resistant products.
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Use the Brick Calculator How Many Bricks Do I Need?Common Brick Types at a Glance
| Brick Type | Common Purpose | Main Characteristic |
|---|---|---|
| Facing brick | Visible exterior or interior masonry | Appearance and weather exposure |
| Common brick | General masonry | Functional construction |
| Engineering brick | Demanding structural or moisture conditions | High strength and low absorption characteristics |
| Fire brick | High-temperature linings | Heat resistance |
| Paving brick | Walkways and pavements | Wear and traffic resistance |
What Is Facing Brick?
Facing bricks are intended to remain visible in the completed building.
They are selected for characteristics such as:
- Color
- Texture
- Shape
- Consistency
- Weather resistance
Manufacturers may offer many colors and surface textures within the same general brick category.
What Is Common Brick?
Common brick is generally intended for masonry where appearance is less important than function.
It may be covered by another finish or used in locations where visual uniformity is not the primary concern.
What Is Engineering Brick?
Engineering bricks are manufactured for demanding applications where properties such as strength and water absorption are important.
They may be used in certain foundations, retaining structures, civil works or moisture-exposed details depending on local construction practice.
What Is Fire Brick?
Fire bricks, also called refractory bricks, are manufactured to withstand high temperatures.
They may be used in:
- Fireplaces
- Furnaces
- Kilns
- Other high-temperature linings
Ordinary facing or common bricks should not automatically be substituted for refractory products in high-temperature applications.
What Are Paving Bricks?
Paving bricks are designed for horizontal surfaces and traffic rather than typical vertical wall construction.
They may be used for patios, paths and driveways when rated for the intended load and climate.
Clay Brick vs Concrete Brick
Clay brick is produced by forming and firing clay-based material.
Concrete brick is manufactured from cement-based material.
They can differ in:
- Color behavior
- Texture
- Dimensions
- Moisture absorption
- Strength
- Installation requirements
Are All Bricks the Same Size?
No. Brick dimensions vary by region, style and manufacturer.
That is why a brick calculator should use the actual dimensions of the product you plan to buy.
Actual Size vs Nominal Size
Actual brick size refers to the physical unit itself.
Nominal or modular size may include the intended mortar joint, creating a convenient overall masonry module.
This difference matters when estimating how many units fit into a wall.
Why Mortar Joints Matter
Brick walls are not made from bricks touching each other directly.
Mortar joints contribute to the finished dimensions of each brick module.
Changing joint thickness changes the number of bricks required per square foot.
Solid vs Cored Bricks
Some bricks are solid or nearly solid, while others contain cores or perforations.
Cores can affect:
- Weight
- Manufacturing
- Mortar bonding
- Handling
Structural performance should be based on product specifications rather than appearance alone.
What Is Brick Veneer?
Brick veneer is a non-structural exterior masonry layer attached to a structural wall system.
It typically requires components such as:
- Wall ties
- Air space
- Flashing
- Drainage openings
The exact assembly depends on the building design.
Facing Brick vs Brick Veneer
These terms describe different things.
Facing brick describes a brick product intended to be visible.
Brick veneer describes how a masonry layer functions in the wall assembly.
Which Brick Is Best Outdoors?
Use masonry rated for the expected weather exposure and climate.
Exterior durability can depend on:
- Water absorption
- Freeze-thaw exposure
- Strength
- Manufacturing quality
- Wall detailing
Which Brick Is Best for a Fireplace?
Areas directly exposed to high temperatures generally require refractory materials designed for that environment.
Decorative facing bricks around the exterior of a fireplace do not necessarily have the same requirements as the firebox lining.
Brick Color Variation
Natural and manufactured variation can occur between batches of brick.
For a more blended appearance, installers may draw bricks from several pallets at the same time rather than completing one pallet before opening the next.
How Many Bricks Do You Need?
The calculation depends on:
- Wall width
- Wall height
- Openings
- Brick face dimensions
- Mortar-joint dimensions
- Waste allowance
Calculate your brick order
Use the actual brick dimensions for a more accurate estimate.
Calculate BricksHow Much Extra Brick Should You Buy?
A modest allowance can help cover cutting, breakage and future repairs.
About 5% to 10% is often used as a planning range for straightforward projects, but the actual requirement depends on wall design.
How to Choose Brick
Before buying, check:
| Specification | Why It Matters |
|---|---|
| Dimensions | Determines layout and quantity |
| Strength | Must suit the project |
| Absorption | Affects moisture and durability characteristics |
| Exposure rating | Important for exterior use |
| Color / batch | Affects finished appearance |
| Intended use | Wall, paving or high-temperature service |
Common Brick Buying Mistakes
Choosing by Color Alone
The brick must also meet the performance needs of the project.
Assuming All Bricks Have the Same Dimensions
Different formats can significantly change unit count.
Using Ordinary Brick in High-Temperature Areas
Fireplace or furnace linings may require refractory brick.
Ignoring Batch Variation
Ordering all visible brick together can reduce matching problems.
Buying the Exact Mathematical Quantity
Cutting and breakage should be considered.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the difference between facing brick and common brick?
Facing brick is selected for visible appearance and exposure, while common brick is generally intended for more functional masonry where appearance is less important.
What is engineering brick?
Engineering brick is manufactured for demanding performance characteristics such as high strength and controlled water absorption.
What is fire brick?
Fire brick is a refractory masonry product designed for high-temperature environments.
Are all bricks the same size?
No. Brick dimensions vary by manufacturer, region and product type.
How many bricks do I need?
Calculate net wall area and divide it by the installed brick module area, then add an appropriate waste allowance.