Brick Slips Cut From Real Brick Or Pre-Cast Slips From Stock Explained!

Are All Brick Slips Cut From Real Brick?

Brick slips have gained significant popularity in recent years due to their versatile and aesthetic appeal. These thin slices of brick are used to cover walls and give them an authentic brick appearance. But, it begs the question – are all brick slips cut from real brick? In this blog, we will explore the different types of brick slips available in the market and their composition.

Types of Brick Slips:

1. Genuine Brick Slips:
   True to their name, genuine brick slips (which is what we supply) are cut from traditional clay bricks that our sister company imports. They maintain the characteristics and texture of full-sized bricks. These slips provide an authentic appearance and are typically used in historical restoration projects or for homeowners seeking the real brick look. Genuine brick slips are durable, weather-resistant, and are imported by us.
2. Thin Clay Brick Veneer:
   Thin clay brick veneers are made from a combination of clay, shale, and other natural materials. The bricks are thinly sliced to create uniform slips that mimic the appearance of traditional bricks. They are also fired in kilns, just like full-sized bricks, to achieve the desired strength and durability. Thin clay brick veneers offer a cost-effective alternative to genuine brick slips while still providing an authentic brick aesthetic. A good example of this would be our Toulouse Brick Slips at just 14mm
3. Faux Brick Slips:
   Faux brick slips, also known as brick veneers, are not cut from real brick. Instead, they are made from synthetic materials like fiberglass, polyurethane, or composite polymers. These slips are designed to imitate the texture and color of brick, offering a lightweight and easy-to-install solution. Faux brick slips are often chosen for their versatility, as they can be easily manipulated to achieve different shapes, sizes, and colors however for this they lack the genuine appearance and finish of true brick slips..

Advantages of genuine brick slips and thin clay brick veneers include:

1. Authentic appearance: Both genuine brick slips and thin clay veneers offer an aesthetically pleasing look, imitating the character of traditional brickwork.
2. Durability: These slips are durable, weather-resistant, and long-lasting, guaranteeing years of use.
3. Versatility: They can be used in both interior and exterior applications, offering design flexibility.

Disadvantages of faux brick slips include:

1. Less authentic appearance: Faux brick slips may not possess the same authentic look as genuine brick or clay veneers, which might disappoint those seeking an accurate brick aesthetic.
2. Limited durability: Synthetic materials used in faux brick slips may not withstand harsh weather conditions as well as genuine brick or clay veneers.

Conclusion:
While not all brick slips are cut from real brick, the majority of ours are and there is a variety of options available in the market to suit different preferences and budget constraints. Genuine brick slips and thin clay brick veneers offer an authentic appearance, durability, and versatility, making them ideal for those who desire the traditional brick look. On the other hand, faux brick slips provide a lightweight and cost-effective alternative, but may lack the same level of authenticity and durability. Choose the brick slip that best suits your needs and budget to enhance the aesthetics of your project.