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How have concrete bricks changed since the 70s?

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By Craig McBride
3 min read

Concrete blocks in the 70s were functional precast products where strength was the primary focus and appearance was very much a secondary consideration. Manufacturing methods were simple compared with today’s modern factories, where concrete facing bricks are now produced. These modern derivatives of concrete blocks deliver both form and function to meet the housebuilder’s most demanding aesthetic project requirements. 

Precast dense concrete blocks were made from powdered Portland cement, water, sand, and gravel. By varying the ingredients and manufacturing processes, lightweight or aerated concrete blocks could also be produced. However, unlike the fashion for flares in the 70s their visual appearance was not the primary concern. They tended to be used in applications where their strength and functionality was paramount rather than their appearance, such as replacing clay bricks in the inner leaf of cavity walls.  

However, out of the concrete block came the development of the concrete brick. With this new product, the humble precast concrete products came out of the shadows and onto the construction catwalk. The concrete facing brick matched the performance and aesthetic appeal of clay bricks and became increasingly specified by housebuilders looking for readily available, cost-effective walling solutions.  

Why are housebuilders increasingly specifying concrete facing bricks?  

Housebuilders are increasingly specifying concrete facing bricks as they can offer a wide range of colours and finishes to meet the aesthetic requirements of each development and match the strength and functional requirements of clay bricks.  

Tobermore offers the smooth facing bricks of the Kingston range or the rustic effect of Lansdowne concrete bricks that have been tumbled to give an aged appearance. Both use high quality iron oxide pigments to produce a range of vibrant colours, consistent through the entire brick and suitable for modern or period properties.  

The contrast in manufacturing conditions between the precast concrete blocks of the 70s and today’s production processes for concrete bricks could not be greater. The slow production machines of the past have been replaced by modern automated processes, producing high volumes of concrete bricks of consistent quality. Tobermore’s state-of-the-art facilities manufacture concrete facing bricks under strict quality-controlled factory conditions to meet the requirements of the latest British Standards. 

concrete bricks

They have excellent resilience to frost with an F2 level of freeze-thaw resistance, with a compressive strength in excess of 22N/mm2 and continue to gain strength as they age. Tobermore concrete bricks are specifically manufactured with three voids in each brick. These voids fill with mortar to create a stronger bond between the bricks to provide greater durability. This gives housebuilders the reassurance that the performance of Tobermore concrete facing bricks will match that of clay bricks. 

When asked why many housebuilders are turning to concrete facing bricks, Craig McBride, Tobermore’s Technical and Product Training Manager, comments:

“We have a team of dedicated people and a history of investing in the latest technology to produce quality products for our customers. This is backed up by an exceptional technical and after sales service to ensure housebuilders can maximise the benefits to their developments when specifying concrete facing bricks.”  

 To add further to their appeal to housebuilders, concrete bricks are either readily available from stock, or can be ordered on short lead times and are competitively priced when compared to clay brick alternatives. 

If I am thinking of specifying concrete facing bricks where can I get more information? 

At Tobermore, we have a wealth of experience that can help you explore the benefits of specifying concrete facing bricks for your next housing development.  

We know how important the aesthetic aspects of projects are to you and that there is no substitute for seeing a physical example of a product that you are considering before you place an order. To that end, we have a quick and easy way to request a sample. We can provide you with full size samples, sample boards, and sample panels so you can really get a feel for how well the product will fit in with your vision for the development. 

For more information on which concrete facing brick is best suited to your project, please contact our sales team who will be happy to take you through the most appropriate specification options.  

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Craig McBride

Craig is the Technical Manager at Tobermore. With over 26 years of experience in the paving and walling industry, he is responsible for ensuring that all technical requirements for our products are in line with the latest guidance and legislation. He also provides technical support and guidance to the wider business and our customers.