When it comes to choosing between real brick cladding and concrete brick cladding, both options have their pros and cons. Understanding the key differences can help you make an informed decision based on your specific needs and preferences.
Real Brick Cladding
Real brick cladding, or brick slips, is essentially thin cuts of real bricks. They offer the same aesthetic and tactile appeal as traditional brickwork but in a more lightweight and manageable form.
Pros of Real Brick Cladding
- Authenticity: Real brick cladding offers an authentic look and feel that is hard to replicate. Each brick slip carries its unique texture and subtle color variations, contributing to a rich and natural aesthetic.
- Durability: Just like full-sized bricks, real brick slips are extremely durable and can last for decades with proper care.
- Aging Gracefully: Over time, real brick cladding weathers naturally, often enhancing its charm and character.
Cons of Real Brick Cladding
- Cost: Real brick cladding can be more expensive than its concrete counterpart due to the manufacturing process.
- Installation: Although thinner and lighter than full bricks, real brick slips can still be somewhat cumbersome to install.
Concrete Brick Cladding
Concrete brick cladding, on the other hand, is made by casting concrete in molds that mimic the texture of real bricks. This type of cladding is a more recent innovation, often used for its cost-effectiveness and versatility.
Pros of Concrete Brick Cladding
- Cost-Effective: Concrete brick cladding is typically less expensive than real brick cladding. It’s an affordable way to achieve a brick-like appearance however it lacks the authenticity of our real clay brick slips.
- Versatility: Concrete brick cladding can be molded and colored to resemble various types of brick, offering a wide range of aesthetic possibilities but again it lacks real authenticity of real clay brick slips.
Cons of Concrete Brick Cladding
- Authenticity: While modern techniques have improved the realism of concrete brick cladding, it still lacks the authenticity of our real clay brick slips.
- Durability: Concrete cladding is generally less durable than real brick and may not age as gracefully.
Frequently Asked Questions
- Which is more expensive, real brick cladding or concrete brick cladding?
Concrete cladding tends to be more expensive due to its manufacturing process and the authenticity it provides. - Which is easier to install, real brick or concrete brick cladding?
Clay brick cladding is easier to install, but both require similar installation techniques. - Which one lasts longer, real brick or concrete brick cladding?
Real clay brick cladding generally lasts longer and ages better than concrete brick cladding. - Can concrete brick cladding mimic the look of different types of brick?
Yes, concrete brick cladding can be manufactured to mimic a variety of brick styles and colors however it’s still not genuine clay like our brick slips - Can real brick cladding and concrete brick cladding be used outdoors?
Both types can be used outdoors. However, real brick cladding is typically more durable and weather-resistant.
