Bright Ideas

1. How to Avoid Efflorescence

Efflorescence is the unsightly white deposit which can appear on newly laid brickwork. Whilst the majority of bricks are tested to have low soluble salts, efflorescence can still occur. You can minimise the risk by keeping the bricks off the floor and keeping them covered whilst in storage and during construction. Attaching downpipes to avoid rainwater saturation will also help to minimise the efflorescence.

Despite your efforts it may still return. If this happens, do not treat it with chemical cleaners as you may ‘fix’ the salts to the brickwork. You are advised to allow natural weathering and time to take care of the deposits, otherwise brush down lightly with a nylon brush.

2. Brickwork Bonds

Not every project can afford the most expensive brick on the market, but there are ways to achieve stunning elevations with a small uplift in price. Most brickwork for new buildings is laid in single skin, 102mm thick walls. This doesn’t stop you using interesting brickwork bonds like Flemish Bond, English Bond, Running Bond, Stack Bond and many more besides. Moving away from stretcher bond (half lap) can make an inexpensive brick look amazing. Try it for yourself and see!