How Come Brick Slips Last Longer Than Tiles?

When it comes to choosing wall cladding for interior or exterior projects, both brick slips and ceramic or porcelain tiles are popular choices. They’re both visually appealing, versatile, and relatively easy to install. But when it comes to long-term durability, brick slips tend to outlast traditional tiles—especially in high-traffic areas and external environments. So, what gives brick slips the edge? Let’s take a closer look.

1. Material Strength and Durability

The main reason brick slips last longer than tiles lies in their material composition. Brick slips are either cut from real bricks or made from concrete or clay-based materials engineered to mimic the strength and texture of traditional brick. This gives them a rugged, dense structure that is designed to withstand the elements.

Tiles, on the other hand, are usually made from ceramic or porcelain. While these materials are hard and wear-resistant, they are also more brittle. Over time, tiles can crack, chip, or even break entirely under heavy impact, especially in colder outdoor climates where expansion and contraction are frequent.

2. Weather Resistance

Brick slips are far more suited to outdoor conditions than standard tiles. They can withstand:

• Frost and freeze-thaw cycles

• Heavy rain and moisture

• UV exposure

• Strong winds and temperature fluctuations

Tiles, particularly ceramic ones, can struggle in outdoor environments. If water penetrates behind them and freezes, it can cause the tile or grout to crack. Porcelain tiles are more resilient than ceramic, but even they can suffer damage in harsh conditions.

Brick slips, by contrast, have been designed to handle external stresses, especially when installed with the correct adhesive and pointing mortar. That’s why they’re often used for external facades, garden walls, and commercial buildings.

3. Thicker and Heavier Construction

Brick slips are generally thicker than tiles—typically around 20mm, compared to tiles which are often 8–12mm thick. This extra thickness adds to their durability and helps them absorb impact without cracking.

The heavier, denser structure also contributes to a more solid and secure bond to the substrate when installed with suitable adhesives and priming methods. Tiles, due to their thinner profile, can become loose over time if subjected to moisture or surface movement.

4. Less Prone to Surface Damage

Brick slips have a textured, rustic finish that naturally disguises wear and tear. Scratches, chips, and staining are less noticeable compared to glossy tiles, which tend to show every mark. This makes brick slips ideal for high-traffic areas like hallways, kitchens, and commercial spaces.

Tiles, particularly those with glazed finishes, can show surface wear over time, especially in busy areas or where furniture or equipment may come into contact with them regularly.

Conclusion

While tiles certainly have their place—especially in bathrooms and kitchens—brick slips offer superior longevity thanks to their robust construction, weather resistance, and ability to handle wear and tear. Whether used indoors or outdoors, brick slips are built to last, making them a smart investment for anyone looking for a stylish and durable finish that stands the test of time.