Mistakes to Avoid When Installing Brick Slips

Installing brick slips in your home can be a great way to enhance its appearance. However, there are a few things you should keep in mind to ensure a successful installation. Here are some common mistakes to avoid:

1. Neglecting Corner Brick Slips
   To achieve a realistic brick-like look, it's important not to overlook corner brick slips. These slips are designed to create a seamless finish at 90-degree corners. Avoid using regular brick slips at external corners, as this will give away that you are using brick slips and give a tiled appearance instead.

2. Misaligning Vertical Mortar Joints
   For a neat and natural-looking finish, pay attention to the alignment of your vertical mortar joints, also known as perps. When laying brick slips in a standard brick bond pattern, ensure that the perps are centrally aligned with the bricks in the course below. This will help you achieve a sleek and cohesive look.

3. Avoid Installing By Eye
   While it may seem tempting to rely on your eye for installation, it's best to use a spirit level for accuracy. Installing brick slips by eye can lead to an uneven finish that gives away their artificial nature. Start by ensuring the first course is level, as the subsequent courses will follow suit. Check the levels every 3-4 courses and make adjustments as necessary.

4. Don't Mix All Adhesive in Advance
   When starting the installation process, it may be tempting to mix the entire bag of adhesive upfront to save time. However, this can lead to complications, as the adhesive may dry out and harden before you can fit all the brick slips. To have more control and ample time, it's recommended to mix only a quarter of the bag at a time.

By avoiding these common mistakes, you can ensure a smooth and professional-looking installation of brick slips in your home. Take the time to consider these tips and enjoy the enhanced beauty they bring to your living space.