Look, if you’re diving into home renovation or building and trying to make sense of the brick aisle, you’re not alone. The world of bricks can feel like a maze of jargon—“embodied energy,” “U-value,” “Class A vs Class B”—and let’s not even start on the flood of marketing fluff claiming miracle materials. You want something that’s green, durable, and budget-friendly. You want the facts, not a sales pitch.
Let’s cut through the confusion and talk about engineering brick properties, what you need to know about Class A versus Class B bricks, practical uses for engineering bricks, and how they stack up against other materials like concrete and timber. I’ll also share some real-world numbers on cost and performance, drawing on my 15 years’ experience as an architect who’s seen more bricks than I care to count (and yes, I always carry a battered brick sample in my bag—old habits die hard).
What Are Engineering Bricks?
First off, what exactly are engineering bricks? These are bricks specially made for structural applications where strength, durability, and low water absorption are crucial. Unlike your standard clay bricks used for garden walls or decorative facades, engineering bricks are fired at higher temperatures, resulting in a denser, harder brick with very low porosity.
Think of it like baking bread: if regular bricks are like a soft sourdough loaf, engineering bricks are a dense rye bread—harder to bite through and less likely to soak up water.
Key Characteristics of Engineering Bricks
- High compressive strength: Typically between 10,000 to 20,000 psi (pounds per square inch), much higher than standard bricks. Low water absorption: Usually under 4.5% for Class A bricks, meaning they resist frost damage and damp. Durability: Resistant to chemicals, frost, and general wear and tear. Consistent size and shape: Ideal for structural work where precision matters.
Because of these traits, engineering bricks are often used in foundations, damp-proof courses, sewers, retaining walls, and even fireplaces.
Class A vs Class B Engineering Bricks: What’s the Difference?
There are two main classes of engineering bricks, defined by their strength and water absorption:
Property Class A Engineering Brick Class B Engineering Brick Compressive Strength ≥ 13,000 psi (90 MPa) ≥ 7,300 psi (50 MPa) Water Absorption ≤ 4.5% ≤ 7% Typical Uses Foundations, damp-proof courses, areas exposed to frost Less exposed structural work, interior walls, general engineering Appearance Usually darker (blue or purple tones) Redder, more like traditional bricksIn short, Class A bricks are the toughened, low-absorption champions, ideal where moisture and frost attack is a concern. Class B bricks are strong but slightly more porous and less costly, suitable for less demanding structural uses.
Engineering Brick Properties vs Other Common Materials
Now, let’s talk numbers and compare engineering bricks to concrete blocks and timber, two popular alternatives among DIYers.
Material Compressive Strength (psi) Water Absorption Embodied Carbon (kg CO₂e/m² wall) Typical Cost Class A Engineering Brick ~13,000–20,000 ≤ 4.5% ~80–100 (varies by source) $0.50 to $2.50 per brick Concrete Block (standard) ~3,000–6,000 ~13–15% ~150–200 $1.50 to $3.00 per block Timber (structural lumber) Varies widely(~1,000–15,000 depending on species and grade) Variable, susceptible to moisture damage ~10–20 (can be lower if sustainably sourced) $2 to $6 per linear foot (varies)
Note: Embodied carbon is a rough estimate and depends on sourcing, manufacturing, and transport. Timber can be a low-carbon choice if harvested sustainably, but it may not match bricks for durability and fire resistance.
Why Choose Engineering Bricks for Your Project?
Here’s where my experience comes in. I’ve worked on projects where the choice of brick literally saved the building decades of repair work. Here’s why engineering bricks might be your best bet:
Durability and strength: If you’re building foundations, retaining walls, or anything exposed to moisture or frost, engineering bricks outperform regular bricks and concrete blocks. Low maintenance: Their low water absorption means less risk of frost damage, spalling, or mold growth. This translates to lower long-term maintenance costs. Fire resistance: Unlike timber, bricks don’t burn, making them safer especially around fireplaces or in regions prone to wildfires. Longevity: Engineering bricks can last over a century without significant degradation. That’s a big deal when you think about lifecycle costs and sustainability.Common Uses for Engineering Bricks
Here are some typical practical applications where I recommend engineering bricks:
- Foundations and footings: Their strength and low porosity prevent water ingress and frost damage. Damp-proof courses (DPC): Thin layers of engineering bricks are often used to block rising damp in walls. Retaining walls: The extra strength helps resist earth pressure and moisture. Chimney breasts and fireplaces: Their heat resistance and durability make them ideal for fire-exposed areas. Sewer and drainage structures: Engineering bricks resist chemical attack and water ingress.
What About the Cost? Is It Worth It?
Price-wise, engineering bricks are definitely at the higher end of the brick spectrum, ranging from about $0.50 to $2.50 per brick depending on quality, supplier, and volume. Glen-Gery and Belden Brick Company are two reputable manufacturers offering a range of engineering bricks in North America.
But here’s the kicker: the upfront cost can be offset by the long-term savings in maintenance, repair, and replacement. I’ve seen DIYers balk at the initial price only to spend more on patching up frost damage or replacing crumbling concrete blocks within a decade.
How to Budget Smartly
- Calculate the actual number of bricks needed, including wastage (usually 5-10%). Compare prices from multiple suppliers and consider bulk orders. Factor in labor costs—engineering bricks can be harder to cut and lay due to their density. Weigh long-term durability against short-term cost savings.
Embodied Energy and Environmental Impact: What You Should Know
Here’s the part where greenbuilding jargon creeps in. Embodied energy refers to the total energy used to extract, manufacture, transport, and install a material. Bricks have moderate embodied energy compared to concrete blocks, but they last much longer. This longevity means fewer replacements and less waste over time.
Concrete, while cheap and familiar, often has a higher embodied carbon footprint due to cement production. Timber can be a low-carbon option if sourced sustainably, but may require treatments or replacements that add up.
Engineering bricks from companies like Glen-Gery are often made with locally sourced clay and fired efficiently, reducing transport and manufacturing emissions. Plus, bricks are inert and recyclable—you can crush them for aggregate or reuse them in landscaping.
Final Thoughts: Are Engineered Bricks the Right Choice for You?
For the eco-conscious DIY builder who wants a practical, durable, and somewhat budget-friendly solution, engineering bricks strike a nice balance. They’re not the cheapest upfront, but their strength, water resistance, and lifespan make them a smart investment.
Just be wary of marketing claims that tout “green” bricks made from plastics or composites. Those often come with hidden environmental costs and limited durability—trust me, I’ve seen too many “miracle” materials fail in real-world conditions.
If you’re building something that needs to last, resist moisture, and stay strong under pressure, look no further than Class A engineering bricks. For less critical applications, Class B bricks will do the job without breaking the bank.
And if you ever want https://www.re-thinkingthefuture.com/technologies/gp4852-bricks-as-an-eco-friendly-building-material-reviving-a-sustainable-classic/ to hear my rambling take on how the Romans mastered brickwork 2,000 years ago, just ask. Until then, happy building!
Resources and Suppliers
- Glen-Gery Engineering Bricks Belden Brick Company TreeHugger (for green building insights) Apartment Therapy (for DIY inspiration)