Looking to add the 'wow' factor to your next brickwork project? Fancy adding a curved wall or arch to an existing structure? Then you're going to need some special-shaped bricks to help you achieve your goals while adding a spot of masonry magic...
Available in a variety of shapes, colours and materials, special-shaped bricks (specials) can enhance any brick surface. They provide architects with additional flexibility and offer functional solutions when designing distinctive buildings using non-standard brickwork.
There are loads to choose from and finding the right type can be challenging. But we're here to help with a comprehensive look at how specials are made and what you can do with them.
Talk to the teamWhat are specials?
Special-shaped bricks have been used for years in myriad architectural styles - in fact, if you look around any brick building today, you'll probably spot irregular-shaped bricks along corners, edges, door frames and arches.
Although specials were originally cut and manufactured in small batches for specific purposes, these days special-shaped bricks are just as easy to order as regular bricks.
They're fully customisable too, meaning they can play an important role in projects of all shapes, sizes and scopes.
How are they made?
Some special-shaped bricks are mass produced for common usage, but they are generally tailored specifically for each project.
Specials need a specific amount of heat during manufacturing and are often fired in a different kiln to standard bricks. This means they are sometimes produced in a separate plant and can contain slight colour variations from their standard brick counterparts.
Some standard bricks also have finished faces that emerge when the bricks are stacked together, but because the angular nature of specials prevents stacking, their finish can be slightly different.
However, with developments in the industry, many modern brick manufacturers can now create special-shaped bricks that match the colour and texture of any standard brick so that they appear identical.
Although specials were originally cut for specific purposes, they are just as easy to order as regular bricks these days
Cut-and-bond specials
While the best way to use specials is to opt for a made-to-order brick, there is a time-saving alternative if you're working to a deadline: we're talking 'cut and bond' here, a process which involves modifying standard bricks and sticking them together to make the required shape.
Where the surface of a made-to-order special will be seamless, with cut-and-bond bricks there might be a slight seam or other evidence of cutting visible on the face. It's worth remembering, though, that this process can be done in a few days. Make sure you weigh up your options and factor in the time needed when planning your project.
Where to use specials
Specials can be used in lots of different ways. Besides the aesthetic advantages, special-shaped bricks can also be used to renovate, restore and protect portions of existing brickwork.
For example, many people lay specials to add durability to a pre-existing structure, improve the bond between new bricks, and prevent mortar problems.
You can also save time on site by avoiding the hassle of cutting standard bricks to fit a particular measurement. Order the right specials in advance, and all your materials are pre-cut and ready to mortar.
For individual projects, special-shaped bricks are a great way to create a distinct look that sets your brickwork apart from others.
You can highlight your original brickwork by introducing 'plinth' bricks that have a different colour or texture; you can upgrade your current brick element with special-shaped bricks that match the existing surface; and you can create arches, spirals and subtle finishes to corners and frames that can alter the mood and ambience of a room or building... The possibilities are endless!
We're here for you
Looking to up the creativity level on your projects? We offer a bespoke brick cutting service to help you speed up that all-important build time and reduce waste on site!
All British Standard special shapes are available to order from Brickhunter - plus, we can get these made in any brick type for you too. Just ask the team for details.
And don't forget: we have a range of specialist services tailored to help you achieve successful brickwork - whatever the shape of your build or the size of your ambition.
Our experts are standing by to help you match, customise and calculate the exact amount of bricks you need, then source them and find the best price - we'll even arrange delivery too.
