Why Spacers Are Used for Brick Slips: A Must for a Perfect Finish
When it comes to creating an authentic brick-look wall using brick slips, one crucial but often overlooked component is the humble spacer. Spacers play a vital role in achieving a professional, even, and structurally sound finish. Whether you're a DIY enthusiast or a seasoned tradesperson, understanding why spacers are used for brick slips can make a big difference in the success of your project. Here’s why they matter.
What Are Brick Slips?
Brick slips—also known as brick veneers or brick tiles—are thin slices of real or manufactured brick. They're designed to mimic the appearance of a full brick wall but are much lighter and easier to install. Ideal for both interior and exterior applications, brick slips are popular in homes, restaurants, and commercial settings for their aesthetic charm and industrial character.
The Role of Spacers
Spacers are small, often plastic, devices that are placed between brick slips during installation. Their primary function is to maintain consistent gaps—known as mortar joints—between each slip. These joints are then filled with pointing mortar to replicate the look of traditional brickwork.
Here are several reasons why using spacers is essential:
1. Consistent Joint Widths
Without spacers, it's difficult to keep joint widths uniform across the entire wall. Inconsistent gaps can make even the most beautiful brick slips look amateurish. Spacers help maintain a clean, straight layout that mirrors traditional brickwork, giving the final installation a polished and professional appearance.
2. Structural Integrity
Even though brick slips are decorative, they need to be applied in a way that prevents shifting or cracking over time. Uneven gaps can cause uneven weight distribution, which may lead to failure of the adhesive or pointing mortar. Spacers ensure that each slip is properly positioned to evenly distribute stress.
3. Easier and Faster Installation
Spacers can significantly reduce the time it takes to install brick slips. Instead of constantly measuring gaps manually, installers can rely on spacers to set the exact distance between each slip. This makes the job quicker, more efficient, and less prone to errors.
4. Better Pointing Finish
Pointing—the process of filling joints with mortar—is much easier and more effective when the gaps are consistent. It not only looks better but also ensures that the mortar bonds properly with both the wall and the slips. Inconsistent joints can result in weak spots where water or dirt can enter.
5. Professional Results
In both DIY and professional projects, the goal is usually the same: a realistic, high-quality finish that resembles traditional brickwork. Spacers help achieve that look by keeping rows level, joints even, and the overall pattern true to the original brick style.
Conclusion
While it might be tempting to skip spacers to save time or money, doing so can seriously compromise the appearance and durability of your brick slip wall. These small tools ensure your project turns out looking crisp, aligned, and authentically brick-like. For the best results, always use the right size spacer for your chosen brick slips and follow the manufacturer’s guidelines. It's a small detail that makes a big difference.