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Brickslip Tiling – The Ultimate Guide to Achieving a Stylish Exposed Brick Look
February 21, 2025 at 12:00 AM
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What Are Brickslips?

Brickslips are thin slices of real brick (or manufactured alternatives) designed to be adhered to walls like tiles, giving the appearance of a full brick wall. They are available in various finishes, from weathered reclaimed bricks to smooth contemporary styles.

Types of Brickslips

Real Clay Brickslips – Cut from genuine bricks for an authentic look.
Manufactured Brickslips – Made from ceramic, concrete, or resin for a lightweight alternative.
Reclaimed Brickslips – Salvaged from old buildings for a rustic, vintage aesthetic.
Glazed Brickslips – Modern styles with a polished, colored finish, often used in bars & restaurants.

Why Choose Brickslips?

✅ Stylish & Versatile

Brickslips bring industrial charm, rustic warmth, or sleek modernity to any space. They are commonly used in:

  • Kitchen splashbacks – Adds texture & warmth.
  • Feature walls in living rooms & bedrooms – Creates a striking focal point.
  • Fireplaces & log burner surrounds – Heat-resistant and visually appealing.
  • Retail, bars & restaurants – Gives a trendy urban look.

✅ Lightweight & Space-Saving

Unlike full brick walls, brickslips are thin and lightweight, making them ideal for renovations where space and weight are concerns.

✅ Suitable for Interior & Exterior Use

Brickslips are weatherproof and durable, meaning they can be used:

  • Indoors for feature walls, kitchens, and bathrooms.
  • Outdoors for garden walls, exterior facades, and porches.

✅ Low Maintenance & Durable

Once sealed, brickslips are easy to clean and maintain, requiring only occasional dusting or wiping down.

How to Install Brickslips

Tiling with brickslips requires special attention to spacing, adhesive selection, and pointing to ensure a seamless, professional finish.

Step-by-Step Installation Guide

1️⃣ Surface Preparation

Before installation, the surface must be:
Clean & Dry – Free from dust, grease, or loose material.
Level & Stable – If necessary, use a backing board or render uneven walls.

2️⃣ Choosing the Right Adhesive

Brickslips require a strong adhesive to hold their weight. Recommended adhesives:

  • BAL Rapid-Flex One (for interior walls).
  • Mapei Keraquick S1 (for heat-resistant or exterior applications).

💡 Tip: If tiling onto plasterboard, use a primer first for better adhesion.

3️⃣ Applying the Brickslips

Start from the bottom and work upwards.
✅ Use spacers (usually 10mm) to ensure consistent mortar gaps.
✅ Press firmly into the adhesive, ensuring full coverage behind each brickslip.

4️⃣ Pointing the Joints (Mortar Filling)

Once the adhesive has set, the joints must be filled with mortar for a realistic brick effect.
✅ Use a grouting bag or pointing gun to apply the mortar.
✅ Smooth with a brick jointer for a clean finish.
✅ Wipe off excess mortar before it dries.

💡 Tip: For a modern look, use light grey or white mortar instead of traditional sand-colored mortar.

Popular Brickslip Design Ideas

💡 Rustic Farmhouse Look – Reclaimed red bricks with rough textures.
💡 Industrial Loft Style – Exposed dark or weathered bricks with black grout.
💡 Modern & Minimalist – Smooth white or glazed brickslips for a clean finish.
💡 Scandi & Neutral TonesBeige or light grey bricks with soft lighting.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

❓ Can brickslips be used in bathrooms & kitchens?

Yes! Water-resistant brickslips can be installed in kitchens and bathrooms but should be sealed with a protective coating to prevent staining.

❓ Are brickslips fire-resistant?

Yes! Brickslips are often used around fireplaces, log burners, and feature walls where heat resistance is important.

❓ Do brickslips require sealing?

If installed in kitchens, bathrooms, or outdoors, sealing is recommended to protect against moisture, grease, and dirt.

❓ Can I install brickslips over plasterboard?

Yes, but it’s best to use tile backer boards or a primer for extra strength.

Why Choose Coventry Tiling for Your Brickslip Installation?

At Coventry Tiling, we specialize in professional brickslip installations for homes and businesses. Whether you want a stunning feature wall, a modern kitchen splashback, or a full restaurant brick design, we deliver expert craftsmanship and a flawless finish.

Why Work With Us?

Experienced Installers – We ensure perfect spacing, grouting, and sealing.
Interior & Exterior Specialists – Skilled in indoor & outdoor applications.
Commercial & Residential – We’ve worked on homes, bars, restaurants & offices.
Fast, Clean & Professional Service – No mess, no stress!

Get a Free Quote Today!

Looking to install high-quality brickslips in your home or business? Contact Coventry Tiling today for expert advice and a flawless finish.

Serving Coventry, Warwickshire, and surrounding areas.