Energy efficiency is currently a major consideration nationwide. Due to ever-rising energy costs, environmental concerns, and more stringent regulations, builders and developers cannot help but adopt energy-efficient materials and methods. Among all the reliable construction methods, masonry contributes significantly to a building’s energy efficiency. Brickwork contractors in Sheffield offer a combination of durability, insulation compatibility, and thermal stability that delivers long-term energy savings.
However, different brick profiles have varying effects on a building’s energy efficiency. Today, you will learn more about brick profiles and how to build better and save on costs.
Understanding the Role of Brick Profiles in Energy Efficiency
The basic purpose of brick profiles is to ensure that a wall is constructed evenly, without gaps. They can be set up easily, allowing bricklayers to complete multiple courses without having to adjust the profile.
Based on the model, the brick profile can help the bricklayer create the required air space when erecting a wall. This space acts as an extra layer of insulation, preventing heat loss.
If bricklayers do not use brick profiles, the wall may turn out uneven, with gaps, or lack the required air space insulation. This would not bode well for the homeowner, as the loss of energy would increase their energy bills and make their homes less efficient.
How Certain Brick Profiles Can Dictate the Thermal Insulation of a Property
The following examples show how different bricks affect a property’s thermal insulation.
Fly Ash
Bricks made of waste products from coal furnaces have a very low thermal insulation factor. That is why brickwork contractors in Sheffield rarely use them. This particular type of brick always lets out more heat, making a building much cooler than it should be.
Air Bricks
These bricks are fabricated with holes to remove damp air and improve airflow. However, the same air flow can affect thermal insulation. The best places for air bricks are chimneys, fireplaces, and similar projects.
Facing Bricks
These bricks are designed to improve a building’s exterior aesthetics. This extra layer of brick usually helps to minimise thermal loss and lower energy bills.
Refractory Bricks
Refractory bricks are exclusively designed for kilns, furnaces, pizza ovens, etc. They have excellent thermal retention and can retain heat with relative ease.
Concrete Bricks
These bricks are not visually stunning, but they can provide immense strength. They are also versatile and exceptionally cost-efficient. The thermal insulation properties of concrete bricks are said to be high, reducing reliance on interior heating systems.
Common Bricks
These are crafted with a high thermal mass and low thermal conductivity. Common bricks are good at providing the energy efficiency required by a home or commercial building, helping keep energy costs low.
Engineered Bricks
These bricks have a low water absorption factor. That is why they are best suited for damp construction projects and areas. The thermal insulation properties of engineered bricks may not be as good as those of the others on this list, which means you may need more heat to stay warm.
Choosing a Brick Profile for Your Home
Selecting an appropriate brick profile can be challenging, as there are various options to choose from. Also, every type of brick has its own unique qualities, which make it perfect for some buildings but not so good for others. One criterion is to use the ones installed in the neighbouring houses or buildings. Another criterion involves the purpose served by bricks. Finally, you need to consider the shape.
In any case, you will probably need the help of brickwork contractors in Sheffield for your project. Chesterfield Pointing & Brickwork Ltd is one of the most reliable brickwork contractors you will find. We offer top-quality services for a range of projects. Whether you need bricklaying services for an extension or a new construction, our contractors have your back. For over four decades, our company has built a solid reputation in the industry. Our ethos is grounded in the variety of the work we do, which we tailor to accommodate your diverse requirements.
Get in touch with us today.