Brick buyer guide

Bricks have been included in the making of buildings since time immemorial. Their use has been perpetuated due to their durability, evidenced by a number of ancient buildings which were made using bricks and have remained standing.

Due to their proven strength, they are used for much more than building houses and offices nowadays. Sidewalks, pavements, fireplaces and many other construction projects are made using bricks. As a result, there are different types of bricks for different purposes. If you are in the construction business or attempting a DIY project, you need to know the differences in order to know how to buy bricks for whatever purpose. You can use the following mini-guide for buying bricks to help you.

STEP 1 - Find out what types of bricks you need: The two main types of bricks are paving and building bricks. Paving bricks are those that are used to build driveways, patios, the area around a pool etc. In short, they are the ones that will be placed on the ground and walked/driven on. Building bricks, on the other hand, are used for walls and fences (upstanding structures).

STEP 2 - Determine the number of bricks needed: You will have to first measure the area in order to determine the amount of bricks required for your project. A general rule is to use 5 to 7 bricks per square foot depending on whether its for paving or for a wall. The actual amount will vary depending on what the size of the brick used is as well as the pattern and the thickness of each mortar space.

STEP 3 - Source high quality bricks: Check around local hardware stores that sell bricks to compare costs before making a final choice. When doing so, factor in delivery costs.

STEP 4 - Select the right kind of mortar/grout: Not all mortar mixes are suitable for the type of brick that you plan to use. Confirm the type with the hardware dealer you are buying the bricks from.me

STEP 5 - Buy more than enough bricks to cover the project: Having to go back for additional bricks to complete a project or to make minor repairs could mean that the colors do not match even though they are the same bricks.

STEP 6 - Start building: Knowing how to buy bricks will help you get the right kind for the job and be able to get your project off the ground promptly, once the other necessities are in place.

Go to http://www.unionbricks.co.za to learn more about the different types of bricks such as pavers, semi-face bricks and clay stock bricks. Union Bricks is a brick supplier in Gauteng, South Africa.

Hooray folks I am Luke Melendez and I am a freelance writer. I started and love to write since I was at my Junior High. Hope to inspire many citizens in my job.