Building a brick wall is more than just stacking one brick on top of another. Whether you're constructing a wall yourself or hiring someone else to do the work, it’s helpful to understand the different types of walls and what kind of wall you’re getting.
In this article, we’ll go over the three main types of brick walls commonly used today - solid, cavity, and veneer - and explain why each type is used.
And if you're thinking of building one yourself, why not head to the clearance page in our Brick Library to see what bricks are on offer before you start...
Types of walls
When it comes to construction, there are three main types of brick walls: solid walls, cavity walls, and veneer walls. These wall types are chosen based on the specific needs of the building, such as the structural requirements, insulation needs, and aesthetic preferences. Here’s an overview of each type:
Load bearing v non-load bearing walls
Before diving into the specific types of brick walls, it's important to understand the difference between load-bearing and non-load bearing walls. This distinction is key when considering the construction and design of a building.
⦿ Load-bearing walls A load-bearing wall is an essential part of a building’s structure. It carries the weight of the roof, floors, and any additional loads above it. Because of the important role it plays in supporting the structure, load-bearing walls must comply with building regulations to ensure their strength and stability.
⦿ Non-load bearing walls In contrast, non-load bearing walls only need to support their own weight and the weight of any cladding (such as brick or siding) attached to them. These walls do not support any structural load from above. Non-load bearing walls are often used as partition walls inside a building to divide rooms, and they can be removed without affecting the building’s overall stability. Some non-load bearing walls may also be found on the exterior if the structure’s support comes from an internal load-bearing wall or veneer.
Why it’s important to know the type of wall
When it comes to altering or removing a wall, it’s crucial to know whether the wall is load bearing. If you’re planning to knock down a wall, make sure to check whether it’s load-bearing, as removing or modifying a load-bearing wall without proper support can lead to serious structural problems.
Finding out whether a wall is load-bearing or not may require the expertise of a structural engineer or a surveyor. Even if the exterior layer is non-load bearing, the internal layer might be load-bearing, so it’s important to ensure the necessary support is in place before any demolition or construction begins.
Finding out whether a wall is load-bearing or not may require the expertise of a structural engineer or a surveyor
Common types of brick walls
Now that we’ve covered load-bearing and non-load bearing walls, let’s take a closer look at the three main types of brick walls:
1 Solid walls
Solid walls are one of the oldest and most reliable types of masonry construction. These walls are typically made up of two or more layers of brick, which are held together by metal ties or header bricks. The header bricks lie perpendicular to the wall's plane, creating a robust, load-bearing structure. Solid walls are known for their durability and strength, making them a popular choice for older buildings. While solid walls require a large number of bricks, making them more expensive to construct, they offer excellent longevity.
2 Cavity walls
Cavity walls were first introduced in the mid-20th century and are now one of the most commonly used types of brick walls. Cavity walls consist of two outer layers of brick with an inner support layer that is usually made of concrete blocks or poured concrete. The space between the outer and inner layers—referred to as the "cavity"—creates an air gap that helps prevent moisture from penetrating the wall. This design makes cavity walls particularly effective at keeping buildings dry. Cavity walls are also effective at improving thermal insulation. The outer brick layer provides aesthetic appeal, while the inner layer bears the load.
3 Veneer walls
Veneer walls are typically used for their aesthetic appeal and are often chosen for their cost-effectiveness. Veneer walls consist of a single layer of brick, which is attached to the building’s load-bearing structure, often made of steel or wooden studs. The brick layer in veneer walls is not load-bearing, meaning it serves mainly a decorative purpose. The insulation material is usually attached to the studs and not incorporated into the brickwork itself, so veneer walls tend to have lower insulation value than solid or cavity walls. Despite this, veneer walls are popular for their affordability and simplicity to construct.
Considerations for building with brick
When choosing the type of brick wall for your building, there are a few factors to consider:
⦿ Cost Solid walls are generally the most expensive option due to the number of bricks required, while veneer walls are typically the least expensive.
⦿ Durability Solid walls are the most durable and long-lasting, making them ideal for buildings that need to withstand heavy loads and wear over time.
⦿ Aesthetics Cavity and veneer walls are popular choices when aesthetics are important. The outer brick layer in both types can be chosen for its appearance, offering more design flexibility.
⦿ Insulation If energy efficiency is a concern, cavity walls tend to provide better insulation due to the air gap between the layers.
When in doubt, ask the experts
Now that you have a better understanding of the different types of brick walls and their respective benefits, you can make an informed decision about which type is best suited for your project. Whether you are concerned about load-bearing capacity, insulation, or aesthetic appeal, understanding these wall types will help you choose the right construction method.
If you’re still unsure about which type of brick wall to choose, it’s always a good idea to seek expert advice. Consider reaching out to a professional or visiting a trusted supplier's Brick Library to explore your options. With the right type of brick and wall construction, you can create a strong, durable, and visually appealing structure.
Nail your project with Brickhunter
Finally, remember that we’re here to help with any questions or advice you may need during your construction journey.
From selecting the right type of brick to ensuring you get the best price for your project, we offer a range of services to guide you through the process. Explore our extensive Brick Library, and don’t hesitate to reach out to our expert Brick Advisors for assistance in choosing the right materials and arranging delivery for your project.
Whether you’re a first-time builder or an experienced professional, we’re here to support you every step of the way.
