When it comes to building a home, office, or development project, bricks are more than just building blocks. They define the durability, energy performance, and long-term aesthetic of a structure. Choosing the right brick is not simply a matter of colour or cost, it is about understanding the materials, standards, and suitability for your specific project.
As a trusted clay brick supplier in South Africa, Apollo Brick has worked with architects, contractors, and homeowners across Southern Africa and the UK, helping them to make informed decisions that shape buildings designed to last for generations. Below, we outline the key considerations to keep in mind when buying bricks.
Face bricks are used on external or visible walls where appearance and uniformity are important. Plaster bricks are intended for internal walls or areas that will be plastered, where the finish will be covered and appearance is less critical.
SABS certification confirms that bricks meet the safety and strength requirements set by the South African National Standards (SANS). Using SABS-approved bricks ensures structural reliability, compliance with building regulations, and long-term durability.
Clay bricks have excellent thermal mass, helping to regulate indoor temperatures by absorbing heat during the day and releasing it slowly at night. This natural insulation reduces the need for artificial heating and cooling, improving overall energy efficiency and comfort.
Not all bricks are created equal. Clay bricks, for example, are fired at high temperatures, creating a dense, weather-resistant product that has been used for centuries. Within clay bricks there are further variations:
Identifying the type of brick needed for your project ensures that you are not overspending on appearance where it is unnecessary or under-investing in visible areas that will define the finished look.
Brick strength is measured in megapascals (MPa). For load-bearing structures, higher compressive strength is crucial, while for non-structural walls, lower MPa bricks may suffice. Always ensure the bricks are certified by the South African Bureau of Standards (SABS) and comply with the South African National Standards (SANS). Purchasing non-compliant bricks can lead to structural risks, wasted resources, and even failed inspections.
Apollo Brick’s clay products undergo rigorous testing to ensure consistent quality and compliance with SANS specifications, giving builders and developers peace of mind that their bricks are indeed SABS approved bricks.
Bricks are not only structural; they also influence the comfort of a building. Clay bricks have excellent thermal mass, which helps regulate indoor temperatures, cooling interiors during hot summer days and retaining warmth in winter. They also provide natural sound insulation, improving privacy and comfort in both residential and commercial spaces.
When choosing bricks, consider how their thermal and acoustic properties align with your project’s energy efficiency goals.
The colour, texture, and finish of bricks contribute significantly to a building’s character. Clay bricks naturally vary in tone, creating a warm, timeless look that does not fade with age. Whether you prefer a rustic, earthy appearance or a sleek, uniform finish, your brick selection becomes part of your architectural identity.
Durability should always weigh heavily in your decision. Clay bricks are known for their long lifespan, often outlasting the buildings themselves. Unlike synthetic materials, they do not require regular painting or treatment, reducing long-term maintenance costs.
Sustainability is also key. Clay bricks are made from natural materials and, once fired, become inert and recyclable. Choosing clay bricks means investing in a construction material that aligns with long-term environmental responsibility.
Beyond the brick itself, the reliability of your supplier matters. Consistent stock, on-time delivery, and technical support ensure that projects run smoothly without costly delays. Apollo Brick, as an established clay brick supplier, combines manufacturing expertise with customer support, ensuring builders and developers receive both high-quality products and professional guidance.
When buying bricks, focus on more than price or appearance. Consider structural strength, compliance, thermal efficiency, aesthetics, sustainability, and supplier reliability. With decades of experience in clay brick production, Apollo Brick helps clients build with confidence, ensuring each project balances quality, durability, and design.
Clay bricks have traditionally served as fundamental components in structural masonry, admired for their strength, thermal mass, and longevity. However, advancements in design thinking and material usage are unlocking a range of non-structural applications where clay bricks contribute both functional and aesthetic value.
In the context of enhancing thermal insulation for buildings, clay bricks play a crucial role, offering both natural insulation properties and contributing to a more energy-efficient and sustainable built environment.
