Brick Siding

Brick is formed from surface clays, shales, and fire clays, which are natural sources of silica, alumina, and metallic oxides. Clays from different sources are mixed at the mining site to reduce variation in chemical composition and physical properties of the final product. The composition in this Common Product reflects the common oxide make up of the various clays and shales that are mixed. The clay is then mixed with water, which allows it to be formed into bricks. The bricks are dried at temperatures ranging up to 400°F and kiln-fired at temperatures ranging up to 2400°F. Firing is required to induce chemical reactions that give the brick its final properties. The final color of the brick depends on the chemical composition, firing conditions, and pigments. 

Brick veneer is non-structural brick that can be applied to interiors or exteriors. Depending on the substrate, installation will vary, but it can be applied with traditional portland cement mortar, polymer-modified cement mortars, or adhesives. Anti-graffiti coatings that may be applied to brick can contain organofluorine compounds, which will add additional hazards not considered by this Common Product. Dimensions of bricks will vary. Standard brick is typically 3-⅝ inches thick, while thin brick is typically between 0.5- and 1-inch thick, and ASTM C1088 allows for a maximum thickness of 1-3/4 inches. 

Brick can contain some recycled content, such as grog from ground brick not meeting standards or other ceramic materials. It also can incorporate bottom ash or fly ash. Brick used in both interiors and exteriors can contain glazes, but these were beyond the scope of this Common Product. For a better understanding of the chemical composition of typical glazes see the Ceramic Tile Common Product.