When it comes to brick slips, most people focus on texture, colour, and layout — but there’s another element that has a surprisingly powerful visual effect: the mortar colour.
Often overlooked, the mortar acts as the backdrop that ties the entire wall together. Whether you’re installing brick slips indoors or outdoors, the shade of the mortar can dramatically alter the tone, depth, and character of the finished surface.
So, does the mortar colour really make a difference? Absolutely — and here’s why.
How Mortar Colour Influences the Overall Look
Mortar isn’t just there to hold your brick slips in place; it’s an integral part of the final aesthetic. Because the joints can make up to 15–20% of the wall’s surface area, the colour of the mortar has a strong visual presence.
Choosing the right shade can:
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Enhance contrast and highlight the brick pattern
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Create harmony for a seamless, modern finish
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Affect perceived colour and warmth of the brick tiles
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Alter the style — from traditional to contemporary
Even a subtle shift in mortar tone can completely change how a wall feels under different lighting conditions.
Contrasting vs. Matching Mortar Colours
Your choice comes down to the style you want to achieve:
1. Contrasting Mortar
Using a mortar colour that contrasts with your rustic brick slips (for example, light grey mortar with deep red bricks) makes the brick pattern stand out more prominently.
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Ideal for: Industrial, rustic, or heritage designs
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Effect: Adds depth, texture, and definition
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Tip: Ensure joints are neat and consistent, as imperfections are more visible
2. Matching Mortar
If you want a more subtle, uniform look, choose a mortar colour that’s close to your brick slips. For example, pairing warm beige mortar with buff-coloured slips or grey mortar with charcoal slips.
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Ideal for: Modern, minimalist interiors or sleek façades
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Effect: Creates a soft, seamless flow
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Tip: Great for smaller spaces where too much contrast could feel busy
Light vs. Dark Mortar: The Mood Factor
Light-coloured mortars can make walls appear brighter and more spacious, reflecting more natural light. Conversely, dark mortars add drama and sophistication, grounding the wall visually.
A dark mortar with pale brick slips can give a bold, graphic edge — while light mortar softens deep tones and keeps the overall aesthetic relaxed.
Practical Considerations
Beyond appearance, there are practical reasons to think carefully about mortar colour:
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Maintenance: Light mortars may show dirt more easily, particularly on exterior walls.
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Consistency: Mixing batches should be done carefully to avoid colour variation.
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Longevity: Pigmented mortars may fade slightly over time — always use high-quality, UV-stable products.
Conclusion: Small Detail, Big Difference
Mortar may seem like a small detail, but its colour has a huge impact on how your brick slips look and feel. The right choice can either make your wall pop with contrast or flow effortlessly with tonal harmony.
Before you commit, it’s worth experimenting with sample panels — different lighting and mortar tones can produce surprisingly different results.
In short: the mortar colour matters. Treat it as part of your design palette, not an afterthought, and you’ll achieve a finish that perfectly complements your space.