Brick slips, often called brick tiles or brick veneers, are thin cuts of brick used primarily in building interior and exterior decoration. They provide the aesthetic of real bricks but are lighter, more versatile, and easier to install. Whether you aim to bring a rustic charm into your living space or add a traditional touch to your home’s façade, brick slips could be the perfect solution. Our guide to brick slips will detail the types of brick slips and the benefits they bring, both externally and internally.

What are brick slips?

Brick slips, also known as brick tiles or brick veneers, are thin slices of brick designed to replicate the appearance of traditional brickwork. They are an increasingly popular choice for residential and commercial properties, offering the aesthetic and texture of real bricks with a fraction of the weight and bulk.

Types of brick slips

1. Clay Brick Slips: These are made from real clay bricks, cut into thin slices from the face or side of the brick. They offer the most authentic brick appearance and texture and are available in the same colours and finishes as traditional bricks. These slips are typically 20-25mm thick, and because they are made from natural clay, they exhibit excellent durability and colour retention.
2. Concrete Brick Slips: Constructed from a concrete mix, these brick slips are often more cost-effective than their clay counterparts. They can be moulded and coloured to mimic various brick types and are generally robust, though they may not offer the same depth of colour or texture as clay slips.
3. Glazed Brick Slips: These are clay brick slips treated with a ceramic glaze, offering a glossy or matte finish in a wide range of colours. They are particularly moisture-resistant and easy to clean, making them ideal for kitchens, bathrooms, and other wet environments.
4. Reclaimed Brick Slips: Made from bricks salvaged from old buildings, reclaimed brick slips are perfect for adding a piece of history and character to a space. Each slip is unique, featuring weathered textures and varied tones that only come from age and exposure to the elements.
5. Eco Brick Slips: These are a newer development in the brick slip market, made from recycled materials or designed to be more environmentally friendly in production and performance. They offer a sustainable alternative while still providing the aesthetic benefits of traditional brick slips.
6. Acrylic Brick Slips: Unlike traditional clay or concrete brick slips, acrylic slips are made from high-density acrylic, making them lightweight and versatile. This type of brick slip is ideal for projects where weight is a concern or installation needs to be quick and less labour-intensive. They can be cut easily with household scissors.

Manufacturing techniques

• Extruded Brick Slips: These are made by extruding a clay mixture through a mould to form long columns, then wire-cut into thin slips before being fired in a kiln. This method allows for consistent quality and uniformity in size and shape.
• Moulded Brick Slips: In this method, clay or concrete is pressed into moulds to create the desired shape and texture, allowing for a wider variety of profiles and designs. Moulded slips can include intricate details and varied textural finishes that mimic hand-made or aged bricks.

Finishes and textures

Brick slips come in a range of finishes and textures, from smooth and contemporary to rough and rustic. Some are even designed to look like they have been weathered or aged, offering an authentic, lived-in appeal right from installation.

Benefits of using brick slips

Aesthetic appeal

Brick slips offer the timeless appeal of genuine bricks and are available in a variety of textures, colours, and finishes—from rustic and weathered to sleek and modern. This makes them an excellent choice for both contemporary and traditional designs.

Versatility

One of the main advantages of brick slips is their versatility. They can be used on both interior and exterior walls. Internally, they are perfect for features such as fireplace surrounds, kitchen backsplashes, and accent walls. Externally, they can enhance the façade of a building, add character to garden walls, or be used in porches and conservatories.

Space-saving

Because they are thin, brick slips are ideal for use in spaces where using full-size bricks would be impractical. This makes them especially suitable for refurbishing existing walls without significantly reducing room space.

Easy installation

Installing brick slips is quicker and less labour-intensive than traditional bricklaying. They can be applied to virtually any existing wall surface with adhesive, and the process is similar to tiling, making it accessible for DIY enthusiasts as well as professionals. Acrylic brick slips can even be cut using household scissors. This makes them particularly suitable for application around corners.

Insulation and durability

When installed with appropriate backing insulation, brick slips can help improve a building’s thermal and acoustic properties. They are also durable and require minimal maintenance, standing up well to wear and tear.