Choosing materials for exterior wall cladding requires a mastery of the options, the environment, and the budget. Of course, personal preferences will also come into the picture. Bricks are often selected because of their durability, versatility, reasonable cost, and timeless appeal. A lot of brick homes and buildings still stand today after several decades or longer. A quick wash of their surfaces and they will look as good as new. These are highly resistant to heat so they are perfect for hot climates and places where a fire could be an issue such as restaurants. If you want to go even further, then consider using glazed bricks.

What are glazed bricks?

They have a base of regular bricks but their exterior surface is fused with a ceramic coating. The process thus involves firing twice which increases strength and durability. The base material already has excellent characteristics but the glazing pushes it up even more. Use this to achieve long lifespans that mean never having to replace it over the course of decades or even more. It is also better than plain paint or other chemicals as it does not emit toxic fumes. The shiny surface is non-porous so it can repel graffiti and other forms of vandalism. It won’t stain or retain dirt.

Cleaning will be easy.

These come in a wide range of colors. Match the surface color with the rest of the building’s exteriors for a unified look. They come in various shapes and sizes as well. Creating unique patterns and designs on the walls will be possible. These are great if you want a permanent wall system that does not fade over time. They can be used even in places that have extreme weather conditions thanks to their ability to resist frost and flames.

How do you extend their lifespan?

Despite all of these, it should be clear that no material is indestructible. Even these bricks can suffer from cracks and spalls if they are not used correctly. Water management is the key. They must not be installed in areas where water saturation is possible. Limiting water penetration is essential and creating a means for the moisture to escape is necessary. When used as a veneer, there should be a vented drainage system behind the wall for new installations. Selecting a suitable mortar is vital as well.

Glazed bricks can lead to virtually maintenance-free walls if you install them the right way.