BRICKS & BLOCKS
CHOOSING AND PROCURING CLAY BRICKS Steve Wharton, Technical Manager of the Brick Development Association, talks about the issues of material shortages in the construction sector and how to reduce or avoid them when choosing clay bricks.
18
we seem A ttothehearmoment, almost daily
Key things to consider are:
about more and more material shortages as the UK continues to recover and open up after over a year of lockdowns and other restrictions. The additional problems of a shortage of experienced site labour and lorry drivers is also exacerbating the issue. With construction activity levels at a seven-year high, what can we all do to ensure that the materials you need are there when you need them? Common sense prevails and hence, planning and communication are essential to implementing best practice and will help to ensure that the supply of clay bricks for your project does not impact your construction programme. It will also help minimise confusion and make for a more streamlined procurement process. The concept design stage is likely the first point in the project lifecycle, when the project team will consider the specification of the external materials.
Preferred colour, size and texture of the clay brick. Ask for samples, if required. The type and colour of mortar to be used and its profile The brick bonding to be specified such as stretcher, header, Flemish, English, honeycomb or textured Consider whether specialshaped clay bricks and sizes will be required early in the design process. Most clay brick manufacturers produce the full range of special shapes which will complement the facing bricks and provide attractive features. Some of the more commonly-used standard specials are usually stocked but others will frequently be made to order. It is essential that early engagement with the manufacturer takes place to discuss purpose-made nonstandard specials. Due to the different manufacturing process, some specials can have subtle differences from the standard brick. A ‘cut-and-bonded’ specialshaped brick or contrasting colour may be a quicker option.
It may seem early in the process to engage with a clay brick manufacturer or supplier but making key decisions at this stage can help smooth the design and procurement process. Remember that clay bricks are available in thousands of different combinations of colours and textures. There are two main routes of engagement with regards to the initial specification of bricks, either direct to the clay brick manufacturer or through a supplier such as a brick factor or builder’s merchant.
Both options have their positive and negative considerations. The clay brick manufacturers will have a better understanding of their product whereas suppliers will usually be able to provide a range of bricks from multiple manufacturers. Whichever route you decide to follow, a good starting point for procurement is often through local clay brick manufacturers. It is likely that they will have a history of supplying the local area and will be able to provide great knowledge and guidance on a suitable clay brick specification.
