The Ultimate Guide to Exposed Brick Masonry

Exposed brick masonry is more than a construction method; it is an architectural philosophy that celebrates the raw, unadorned beauty of fired clay. When executed correctly, as seen in the detail shot above, it creates a facade that is structurally sound, visually arresting, and effectively maintenance-free.

1. The Importance of The Joint

The mortar joint constitutes about 15-20% of your wall purely by surface area. For exposed work, we recommend a consistent 10mm recessed or "raked" joint. This shadow line adds depth and highlights the individual character of each brick.

2. Selecting the Right Brick

Not all bricks are suitable for exposed use. You need high-density wirecut or machine-pressed bricks with low water absorption (ideally <12%) to prevent efflorescence (the white patchy salt deposits). Our UrbanClay wirecut series is specifically fired at 1000°C+ to ensure this durability.

3. Timeless Bond Patterns

While the Stretcher bond (running bond) is the most common, exploring Flemish or English bonds can add significant heritage character to contemporary buildings. The texture and light-play change dramatically based simply on how the bricks are stacked.