Some basic knowledge of building materials can help you to better assess your next project and what types of bricks will be needed. This article gives valuable insight intowhat to look for in a masonry project.

As a building material, brick is as old as dirt and water, and the basic way bricks are made hasnt changed much in the thousands of years people have been using them. But there are many varieties available, and which kind you choose depends mostly on what your aesthetic goals are.

Bricklaying, or masonry, is enjoyed by many people as a relaxing hobby — Winston Churchill was an enthusiast — though of course it is more commonly used for its practical applications. Brick walls dont need to be painted or weatherproofed, and they provide good insulation. They look sturdy and beautiful, too.

Building bricks have holes in them to reduce weight and save on materials. “Face bricks” are the more familiar bricks, the solid ones that are used when the entire brick will be visible. There are also paving stones, or “pavers,” which are used for decorative purposes such as patios and sidewalks. Firebricks are specially made heat-resistant items to be used in fireplaces and other heat-intensive places.

Another style of brick is the cinderblock. Its not nearly as nice to look at as the standard red brick, but being larger, its useful for building particularly large walls, as not as many bricks are required. Cinderblocks can be glazed or burnished, too, in order to make the wall look more appealing.

If youre planning a brick-laying project with the standard red bricks, plan on about five bricks per square foot if its a paving project, or seven per square foot for walls. A pallet of bricks has 516 of them. Buy a few extra bricks to allow for mistakes, particularly if youll be cutting any in half and are not experienced at it. Cutting bricks is tricky business — always wear protective goggles! — and even pros ruin one now and then.

brickchoice.com is packed with information on facing bricks and faux bricks