Brick Slip Cladding in New Build Homes

As specialists in new build home inspections, we at Brickkickers have seen an increasing use of brick slip cladding in modern construction. These thin slices of brick, typically around 20mm thick, are designed to mimic the appearance of traditional brickwork without the full structural properties. While brick slips can offer certain advantages, it's important for homeowners to understand their use and potential implications.

Brick slips are essentially the face of a brick, either cut from full bricks or manufactured specifically as thin units. They're applied to walls using adhesive, similar to tiles, to create the look of exposed brickwork. Popular in both exterior and interior applications, brick slips have become a common feature in many new build homes across the UK.

Why Are They Used in New Builds?

There are several reasons why developers may opt for brick slips:

1. Cost-effectiveness: Brick slips can be cheaper to transport and quicker to install than traditional brickwork, potentially reducing construction costs.

2. Lightweight alternative: They place less load on the building's structure, which can be advantageous in certain construction methods or when adding cladding to existing buildings.

3. Insulation compatibility: Brick slips work well with external wall insulation systems, allowing developers to improve energy efficiency while maintaining a brick aesthetic.

4. Design flexibility: They offer the ability to create a brick look in areas where full bricks would be impractical, such as interior feature walls.

Developers are increasingly turning to brick slips in new builds for several compelling reasons. These thin brick facades offer a cost-effective solution, as they are easier to transport and quicker to install than traditional brickwork, potentially leading to significant savings in construction costs. Their lightweight nature also makes them an attractive option, particularly in certain construction methods or when adding cladding to existing structures, as they place less load on the building's framework.

Brick slips provide excellent compatibility with external wall insulation systems, allowing builders to enhance energy efficiency without compromising on the desired brick aesthetic. This dual benefit of improved insulation and traditional appearance is particularly appealing in the UK's climate-conscious construction industry. Additionally, brick slips offer greater design flexibility, enabling the creation of a brick look in areas where full bricks would be impractical or impossible, such as interior feature walls or in spaces with weight restrictions.

What Homeowners Should Be Aware Of

While brick slips can be an effective solution in many cases, there are some considerations for homeowners:

1. Installation quality: Proper installation is crucial. Poor application can lead to issues like detachment or water ingress. During our inspections, we pay close attention to the quality of brick slip installation.

2. Longevity: While manufacturers often claim long lifespans for brick slips, their long-term durability in UK weather conditions is still being established, especially compared to traditional brickwork.

3. Maintenance: Like any exterior cladding, brick slips require maintenance to ensure they remain in good condition and continue to protect the building envelope.

4. Authenticity: Some homeowners may feel that brick slips lack the depth and character of full bricks, particularly in heritage-style homes.

While brick slips offer numerous advantages, homeowners should be aware of certain considerations. The quality of installation is paramount, as poor application can result in issues such as detachment or water ingress. At Brickkickers, we scrutinise the installation quality during our inspections to ensure these problems are identified and addressed. Additionally, while manufacturers often tout long lifespans for brick slips, their long-term durability in UK weather conditions is still being established, particularly when compared to traditional brickwork.

Maintenance is another key factor to consider. Like any exterior cladding, brick slips require regular upkeep to maintain their condition and continue protecting the building envelope effectively. Lastly, some homeowners, especially those with heritage-style properties, may find that brick slips lack the depth and character of full bricks. This perceived lack of authenticity is an aesthetic consideration that potential buyers should weigh carefully when considering a property featuring brick slips.

Brickkickers' Perspective

In our experience inspecting new build homes, we've seen both high-quality and poor applications of brick slips. When done well, they can provide an attractive and functional finish. However, we've also encountered issues such as:

• Inconsistent mortar joint widths

• Poor alignment of slips

• Inadequate weatherproofing at junctions with other materials

• Cracking or detachment of slips

These problems underscore the importance of thorough inspections and quality control during construction.

Brick slips represent an evolving technology in home construction, offering certain benefits but also requiring careful consideration. As with any aspect of a new build home, the key is quality workmanship and proper installation. At Brickkickers, we recommend that homebuyers familiarise themselves with the materials used in their new home and ensure that all work meets the required standards.

If you've recently purchased a home with brick slips and have concerns about their application or quality, it's crucial to address these issues promptly. At Brickkickers, we offer comprehensive snagging surveys specifically designed to identify and document any defects or issues with your new build home, including the installation of brick slips. Our experienced inspectors can thoroughly assess the application of brick slips, checking for proper adhesion, alignment, weatherproofing, and overall quality.

By conducting a professional snagging survey, you can gain peace of mind and, if necessary, have documented evidence to approach your developer for rectifications. Don't let potential issues with brick slips compromise the quality and value of your new home – consider a Brickkickers snagging survey today.