Brick Selection Guide for Architects & Builders

By Clayon · Technical guide for premium projects

Choosing the right bricks is one of the most important things to do at the start of any building project. Choosing the right bricks directly affects the structure's performance, the quality of the finish, the speed of construction, and the long-term upkeep. If you make the wrong choice at this point, it could cause problems that no design or finish can fully fix later.

This guide lists the most important things that architects and builders should think about when choosing bricks, especially for high-end and high-quality building projects.

1. First, make sure you understand what the project needs

Before you pick a brick, make sure to:

  • What kind of building is it? (single-family home, villa, apartment building)
  • How many floors there are
  • Requirements for the load and structure system
  • Style of architecture (traditional, modern, exposed brick, or a mix of the two)
  • A budget range that doesn't lower quality

When choosing bricks, you should always think about the design and structural needs, not just the price.

2. Consistency and Accuracy of Size

Brick uniformity is one of the most important things for good masonry.

When looking for bricks, architects and builders should look for:

  • Length, width, and height that are always the same
  • Edges that are sharp and in the right place
  • Little difference in size between batches

Uniform bricks make sure:

  • Walls that are straight
  • Thinner plaster
  • Better alignment of finishes, doors, and windows

This is very important in high-end construction, where people pay close attention to how well the finish is done.

3. Strength in Compression and Ability to Bear Loads

The building's structure must be able to support the bricks.

Things to think about when making a decision:

  • Strength under pressure according to standards
  • Ability to handle loads that go up and down
  • An internal structure that is the same all over and has no weak spots

Bricks with more strength help with:

  • Better stability of the wall
  • Fewer cracks in the structure
  • Better safety margins in general

It's important that the bricks in multi-story houses and villas are always strong.

4. How well it absorbs water and how long it lasts

The ability of masonry to absorb water has a direct effect on how long it lasts.

Bricks that are of good quality should:

  • Take in water within acceptable limits
  • Keep out moisture and leaks
  • Stay strong over time

Less water absorption causes:

  • Better bonding with mortar
  • Less likely to have efflorescence
  • Wall finishes that last longer

This is very important in places where the weather changes a lot.

5. Mortar Bonding

The texture of the brick surface is very important for mortar bonding.

When choosing bricks, make sure:

  • The texture of the surface helps the mortar stick
  • No extra smoothness or dust buildup
  • Consistent bonding behavior across groups

Strong bonding leads to:

  • Better transfer of loads
  • Less cracks that shrink
  • Less long-term upkeep

6. Quality of the finish and how well it fits with the architecture

Bricks should fit in with the project's architectural vision.

Think about:

  • If the walls will be plastered or left bare
  • Works well with paint, cladding, or natural finishes
  • Visual consistency across levels

When brick is used in exposed brick buildings or modern elevations, its look becomes a design element, not just a structural one.

7. How easy it is to work with and how efficient the site is

From a builder's point of view, bricks should help the work go smoothly.

The best bricks let:

  • Masonry work goes faster
  • Mortar use that can be predicted
  • Less waste and breakage
  • More control over the quality of the work

This has a direct effect on:

  • Timeframes for construction
  • Productivity of workers
  • Control of the overall cost of the project

8. Keeping the supply steady and checking the quality

Architects and builders must make sure that:

  • Quality that stays the same across all deliveries
  • A reliable supply chain and manufacturing process
  • Ability to meet project deadlines without making any changes

Inconsistent brick quality can lead to:

  • Walls that look different
  • Delays in execution
  • Rework and arguments

9. Long-Term Maintenance and Performance

Brickwork lasts forever. It can't be easily replaced like fittings or finishes.

The right bricks make sure:

  • Long-term dependability of the structure
  • Less need for repairs and complaints
  • More value over the client's lifetime

High-end projects need materials that will last for decades, not just during construction.


Last Thought

Choosing bricks is not something that architects and builders do every day. It is a technical and design choice that sets the standard for good construction. Picking bricks that are strong, accurate, long-lasting, and have the right finish makes the job go more smoothly, looks better, and keeps clients happy for a long time.

Building is easier with the right brick.
Everything is harder when you pick the wrong brick.