It is unlikely that anyone will undertake to argue that the term "clinker" is on the lips of most Russians. And at the same time, clinker brick has a history of its existence of about two hundred years. It is popular in European countries and USA.

Clinker brick has properties such as frost resistance and strength.

Clinker is often used in the construction of buildings in the style of ancient eras, but it can also act as an excellent cladding for modern buildings. In our country, clinker bricks are more often used in private construction for luxury housing. What are clinker products, what are their sizes, and how they differ from classical ceramics, we will talk about this further.

Description of clinker facing material

Clinker products are made from a special kind of refractory clay by firing at elevated temperatures (over 1000 ° C). The result of firing at such a high temperature is a homogeneous composition of products, without voids and particles of foreign origin. This technology gives the clinker high strength and durability. Clinker facing material has excellent characteristics in operation: it is resistant to water, frost, creates a good barrier against the penetration of sounds and heat leakage. The density of the structure gives it excessively high wear resistance and prevents contamination.

Clinker acts as a universal building material, which allows it to be used in various areas of construction. Such brick is involved in the process of construction of new buildings and in the reconstruction of worn-out ones, they are used to line the facades of houses and construct columns from it, decorate window openings, etc.

For cladding, facade clinker, specially designed for this purpose, or colored (or glazed), is used. Glazed clinker products can have not only different shades but also available in glossy and matte finishes. It depends on the glazing method.

Conventionally, the glazing method looks like this: paint of the required shade is applied to the finished clinker products (2 layers), they are placed in the oven for a short period of time. Repeated firing is carried out at a temperature of more than 1200 ° C. As a result, the coating is sintered with the clinker surface. Glazed material does not lose its rich color for many years.

Quite often, clinker bricks are used in the arrangement landscape design. Such a variety as paving clinker fits perfectly into the surrounding natural conditions natural landscape. When laying paths from clinker products, there is no need to worry: the paths will not deteriorate over time.

Figured clinker brick is a real find for design ideas. With his participation, it is possible to transform the most banal landscape into a whole work of art. Clinker is used when it is necessary to pave sidewalk areas near large office buildings, since such a brick is able to withstand more significant loads than analogous materials.

Without a doubt, clinker cladding is durable, strong and beautiful. But few people realize that it is also safe from an environmental point of view. Clinker production technology does not provide for the addition chemical substances and impurities. Therefore, such a brick is rightfully environmentally friendly. pure material for construction. What becomes an important factor in the conditions of mass propaganda of environmental protection.

New building materials often crowd out already tried and tested products on the market. Due to affordable cost or high performance characteristics, products allow you to complete processes with less labor and more practicality. For example, clinker brick is a piece product with huge advantages and the most wide area applications in construction. Despite the fact that the cost of the product is high, it is popular with professionals and beginner developers.

Advantages and disadvantages of clinker bricks

Clinker brick (CC) is a building product that has standard dimensions, indistinguishable from red full-bodied ceramic bricks. The products are distinguished by high aesthetic and operational performance. Refractory clay acts as a raw material for products, the manufacturing process includes firing at high temperature under pressure.

The study of any material begins with pros and cons. Knowing the indicators, it will be easy for the builder to determine the purpose of a particular product, its strengths and do not use the product where it is inappropriate. The advantages that clinker bricks have include the following factors:

1. Huge service life. From the moment the object is put into use, this material can serve for more than a century, which is due to the technology and raw materials of preparation.
2. High levels of aesthetics. As a rule, clinker bricks are produced standard forms and sizes, but you can make any texture, color and shape, which affects the incredible range of products.
3. The wide scope of application is also due to the variety of types of products.
4. Versatility. Affect the aesthetic appearance and strength. The material can be used as a facing brick, building product and material for paving paths, sidewalks. But it should be remembered that the use of QC for full-scale construction is a laborious and very costly business, therefore, despite such high performance, the product is used for finishing the front surface of buildings.

The only drawback is the price. It is at least 2 times higher than for ordinary bricks and can be from $ 1 per piece - housing construction will be durable, but very expensive.

Clinker characteristics

The main technical parameters are:

• Strength varies within 250-350 kgf/cm2.
• Water absorption is 1500 kg/m3.
• In terms of frost resistance, clinker bricks can withstand more than 220 freeze/thaw cycles at 100% humidity.
• The density is 1500kg/m3.
• Void maximum 30%.
• Standard sizes are 250 * 120 * 65 mm, however, there are products whose dimensions can vary greatly. Standardization of GOST allows sizes that are different from the main ones in the direction of increase and decrease, therefore it is important to determine the purpose of the product and the application before considering the overall parameters of a batch of bricks.
• Weight up to 3.5 kg.

There are narrow technical characteristics of products, but they are of little importance when choosing. It should be remembered that each manufacturer has the right to set its own product dimensions, while other parameters (density, frost resistance) may change.

Advice! In order not to buy a poor quality product, you should carefully examine several samples from different batches. If the size of the clinker brick is significantly different, then it is better to either refuse to purchase or request certificates to ensure that there are high basic quality characteristics product.

Varieties of clinker bricks

The whole range of products is divided into 6 types, the price of which varies depending on the main characteristic features. Clinker brick happens:

• Tile is a decorative facing material used for cladding facades, indoor interiors. There is no bearing load, but there is a separation: facade and internal KK.
• Technical - this is a KK called sidewalk and used for paving footpaths and other surfaces. Possessing the highest strength characteristics, the product can be ideal flooring for high traffic areas.
• Acid-resistant product is able to withstand aggressive influences.
• Waterproof is QC, often used for hydraulic structures, where elevated level humidity.
• Specialized QC- a product shown for use in the decoration of objects of complex shapes. Production is carried out not only in the form of tiles, bricks, but also various angular, circular, radial elements.
• Sidewalk. Do not confuse with technical, because both types have differences in appearance and purpose. Paving clinker brick, as seen in the photo, is excellent for laying out decorative paths and platforms. The price of such a material is much higher than technical QC, and the dimensions are diverse, as is the shape of the product.

There is also ceramic KK, which serves only for finishing objects that do not carry any load or with an extremely low load on the walls. As a rule, these are buildings of small forms: fences, sheds, rotundas and gazebos.

Styling features

Having figured out what a clinker brick is, it is worth looking at the advice of professionals who will help to carry out the correct layout of products:

1. Technology is used, as in laying out building bricks: rows, dressings, but the solution should be a little more rigid.
2. It’s good to use a template or lay out for stitching.
3. Be sure to use a grouting material that is used in decorative works with regular tiles.
4. Accuracy of work is required - contact of the mixture for laying out with the front side of the KK should not be allowed.

A considerable price for products consists of the features of manufacturing technology. In addition to the fact that expensive raw materials are used, both extrusion production and the semi-dry pressing method can be applied. Pressing is cheaper, which is justified by the absence of an oven drying process, however, the products will not be as high quality as if made in a standard way followed by firing. Therefore, let the price not have the most important, the main thing in clinker is quality, practicality and aesthetics.

Clinker is deservedly considered ideal for finishing the facade, it retains its beauty and reliability for many years of service, isolates the premises from external noise and prevents heat loss. But when choosing this option, you should be prepared for significant final investments, both because of the high cost and the relatively complex installation technology.

Description and characteristics of clinker

Clinker bricks are obtained by molding and high-temperature processing of mixtures of carefully ground refractory clay, minerals and silicates with a slight addition pure water. The main requirement of the manufacturing technology is the slow firing of products in tunnel-type furnaces with heating up to 1300°C. Under these conditions, the raw mass is sintered with the highest possible uniformity, forming a high-strength element without cracks and fine pores.

It is characterized by high color stability, but due to the absence of foreign impurities in the composition, its shades are always natural. The range of colors is wide - from light to almost black. The texture can be anything: from smooth to rustic or velvet. The sizes correspond to the standards, in case Russian production- GOST 530-2012, foreign - to European ISO standards. To reduce weight and improve thermal insulation qualities, they are mostly hollow, but there are exceptions. In spite of different shape edges and the possible absence of chamfers, they have a high accuracy of geometric parameters.

Properties and characteristics of facade clinker

Performance indicators:

• The value of water absorption does not exceed 6%, for most advanced manufacturers - 5.
• Withstands at least 100 freezing cycles.
• The minimum allowable strength grade is M250.
• Not afraid of fire and withstands direct contact with the flame. For this reason, it is recommended to buy it not only for facades, but also for facing fireplaces.
• The minimum density is 1500 kg / m 3, the average for most products is 2000-2100.
• Thermal conductivity does not exceed 1.15 W/m °C.
• The average voidness is 30%. Slotted clinker brick size 1NF weighs no more than 2.3 kg.
• Durability reaches 100 years or more.
• Absolutely resistant to UV and biological hazards.

Pros and cons of application
The considered features and disadvantages include fragility, in order to avoid unnecessary expenses, the terms of delivery, unloading and laying are negotiated separately. This finish is considered elite, the minimum cost is 1400 rubles / m 2 (excluding installation services). When buying foreign-made products, they increase at least twice.

Unambiguous advantages - resistance to most external influences, high decorativeness, strength and durability. Facades made of clinker bricks remain unchanged throughout their entire service life, this option is chosen when finishing "for centuries". The scope of application is not limited by climatic conditions, but installation is carried out exclusively in warm and dry weather.

Overview of brick manufacturers

1. LSR. Wall materials.

A Russian manufacturer producing up to 25 million conditional products per year. Of the 4 plants included in the group, Nikolsky KZ, located next to the largest Cambrian clay deposit in the Russian Federation, is engaged in the manufacture of facade cladding. The availability of raw materials and a well-established production line make it possible to reduce the cost of production, the retail price does not exceed 30-40 rubles per 1 piece. In terms of quality, they are not inferior to foreign analogues, they are subjected to high-temperature firing up to 1200 ° C.

The range is presented in 10 basic colors, 3 formats, including 0.7 NF, 1 NF and 1.4 NF, and 3 types of surface: smooth, rusticated and imitating reed. Notches are made on all front faces, high geometric accuracy speeds up and simplifies their installation. In addition to facade cladding, this group specializes in the production of paving clinker, porous and solid ceramics. The quality of VP is time-tested, the line was successfully launched in 2013, in this moment its technological capacity is constantly growing.

2. Group of companies Magma.

Dubensky KZ, which is part of this production association, specializes in the manufacture of premium class ceramic and clinker products, products are also lime under the Magma Keramik & Klinker brand. The offered assortment includes facing bricks of 1NF and 1.4NF formats with uniquely low water absorption within 5%, acid resistance from 95% and higher. The coloring is limited to 5 positions (White, Pearl, Red, Chocolate, Flash firing, texture - 2 (smooth surface and Antique). Voidness does not exceed 33%, the scope of application, in addition to facing external walls, includes the design of window sills, stairs, fireplaces, chimneys, balconies and similar structures subjected to frequent saturation with moisture and temperature changes.

3. Feldhaus Klinker, Germany.

The collection is represented by more than 50 variations of color and texture solutions, including hand-molded facing bricks. The distinctive features include ultra-low water absorption (2-4%, no more), high mark strength (up to M1000) and frost resistance up to 1000 cycles. Aesthetics and performance remain unchanged over a long service life (from 50 years and above). Compared to Russian clinker, they have a non-standard format: DR, RF, NF, WDF and 2SDF. This is due to the use of different standards during production, the products of this company are regulated by European standards, and not GOST 530-2012. But the main difference lies in the variety of products, they are multi-colored.

4. Daas Baksteen, Holland.

This trademark was introduced to the market in 1890, currently the range includes over 100 items. The distinctive features include the uniqueness of the color and shape of each element with a fully automated production line that controls the dimensions and performance with the utmost precision. The brick for the facade of this company is considered to be super-dense, after laying such a cladding, vandals and any external influences are not afraid, for the entire time of operation, its surface remained clean of moss and was not covered with cracks. Prices depend on decorativeness and vary from 50 to 135 rubles apiece.

The world leader in the production of ceramics is known to the Russian consumer by the Terca line, in particular, by the Nordic Klinker Line series. The range is represented by 4 main brands (Tallinn, Stockholm, Helsinki, Oslo) with smooth and rough planes of burgundy, red, light and dark brown colors. Their declared strength grade reaches M400, frost resistance - 100 cycles, water absorption does not exceed 6%. Unlike other foreign analogues, the dimensions and weight correspond to Russian standards: with a mass of 2.26 kg exact dimensions are 250×85×65 mm.

They are made by the plastic forming method, which allows to show all the advantages of classic refractory ceramics and get an original velvety surface. Smooth and natural lines are inherent, there is no chamfer. Prices are average, with an estimated cost of 60 rubles apiece, they can be bought at any building supermarket.

European concern specializing in the manufacture of paving stones, facing and molding bricks and clinker tiles for the facade, which includes 17 plants in the group (7 in Holland, 5 in Poland, 5 in Germany). The quality is time-tested, the advantages include high color fastness, abrasion resistance and mechanical damage, temperature fluctuations and moisture. The choice of colors and textures is large, the format meets Russian standards.

Installation nuances

The work may coincide with the construction of walls, but most experts recommend cladding after the construction of all supporting structures and insulation (if necessary). Standard scheme includes the following steps:

• Checking the condition of the foundation. Such a brick is placed on a stable and fairly wide tape; in the absence of a plinth or a protruding part of the base, the corresponding bar is securely fixed on the walls. Horizontal deviations in this case are not allowed.
• Checking the verticality and condition of the walls. The presence of depressions does not play a special role, but any protrusions and interfering elements are carefully removed.
• Laying the first row: at first without mortar, starting from the corners and taking into account the selected joint thickness and grouting method. On the doorways bricks are interrupted, if necessary, they are cut to the desired size.
• Mixing cement-based compound in a clean plastic container (but not in a concrete mixer). In the absence of experience, preference is given to ready-made specialized mixtures.
• Application of the first leveling layer, laying the corners and the bottom row of bricks, checking the level, setting the order and cord.
• The construction of all other rows with the obligatory control of the level and thickness of the seams.
• Seam grouting.

Among general requirements emphasize the need for a uniform distribution of the solution and the rapid removal of excess from the front surface. To the main secrets beautiful facade include:

• Facing each individual plane with bricks from the same batch, but from different pallets, to speed up the work, it is advised to mix the elements.
• The use of homogeneous, carefully ground compositions with the desired consistency.
• Compliance with a uniform and sufficiently large thickness of the seams, in the absence of experience, they are performed using a special template.
• Work with products in dry form, they are not wetted before installation.
• Scraping the mortar 20 cm deep and filling the joints with special grout mixtures to match the main cladding.

clinker brick price

Imported products include the lines Roben, Feldhaus Klinker, Murh, A.D.W, Hagemeister (Germany), CRH and Daas Baksteen (Holland), Wienerberge (European concern). Currently, 2 joint groups have established production in Russia - LRS and Magma, most of the factories specialize in the production of brick tiles (the same plus Ecoclinker, Zeus-Keramika and many others).

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A fairly new building material, widely used, has increased strength indicators. Clinker bricks were "accidentally" obtained at brick factories before. If the firing technology was violated, the temperature in the furnace increased, the sand turned into glass. The brick lost its shape, became heavy and waterproof. Marriage was used during the repair dirt roads. Modern technology has made it possible to accurately maintain the annealing temperature, the material does not lose its shape, but acquires new properties. The annealing temperature reaches +1300°C. The temperature in the kiln during the annealing of classic bricks is within +800°C.

The color of clinker bricks depends on natural impurities in clay and sand or is created by adding mineral dyes during the molding of wet blanks. Due to the heterogeneity of the composition source material even on the same pallet, the shade of the bricks is slightly different. When facing buildings with clinker bricks, it is imperative to mix bricks from at least three pallets. If this is not done, then large areas with various spots may appear on the plane of the wall.

Knowledge of not only positive, but also negative properties of clinker bricks will make it possible to take optimal solution on its use. Technical parameters, requirements for physical characteristics, resistance to aggressive chemical compounds and linear dimensions are prescribed in the provisions of GOST 530-2012.

GOST 530-2012. CERAMIC BRICK AND STONE. Download file

For the manufacture of clinker, “lean clay” is used, the main difference of which is an increased percentage of quartz sand. Basalt volcanic rocks can be added to improve properties. Volcanic basalt - natural glass. As we have already mentioned, the color is determined by natural ingredients or mineral additives. The second production technology significantly increases the cost of production, but makes it attractive, makes it possible to create a wide range of uniform color solutions.

Table physical characteristics several types of clinker materials

Prices for various types of clinker bricks

Clinker brick

Positive qualities of clinker bricks

1. High resistance to compression and bending. According to this indicator, the material exceeds ordinary brick at least twice. Builders use clinker to build load-bearing architectural elements.
2. Low moisture absorption. Due to this characteristic, clinker bricks can be used as plinth masonry material for outdoor structures without the need for protection from atmospheric precipitation. Ordinary brick can absorb up to 25% moisture from dry weight. A large number of moisture destroys the brick structure during freezing.
3. High resistance to mechanical damage. The surface of the brick does not lose its original properties throughout the entire period of operation. Facing does not require maintenance, it is not washed or painted, the surfaces are not plastered.
4. Low porosity. In addition to water resistance, low porosity prevents the appearance of mosses on the front surface. The front surface has almost no microscopic pores, dust does not accumulate in them and mosses do not grow. Plant roots quickly destroy red brick, special measures must be taken to protect it. Clinker facades are much easier and cheaper to maintain in their original form.

Unfortunately, the material also has significant drawbacks.

Objective data on the physical and operational performance of clinker bricks, a description of not only its advantages, but also its shortcomings, will serve as initial data when choosing a material for facing buildings for various purposes. In addition, developers will have the opportunity to compare the price with the benefits received.

Standard sizes single brick(1 NF) 250×120×65 mm, one and a half (2NF) 250×120×88 mm, double (2.1 NF) 250×120×140 mm. But there are manufacturers who establish their own technical specifications (TU) for products, in connection with this, not all building materials have standard sizes.

The European standard (0.7 NF) has dimensions of 250 x 85 x 65 mm. Incomplete types of "quarter", "half", "three quarters" are produced. The clinker modular block (1.3 NF) has dimensions of 288×138×65 mm. During calculations required amount materials, keep this information in mind. Dimensional deviations cannot exceed ±4 mm in length, ±3 mm in width and ±2 mm in thickness. Non-parallelism of planes and faces cannot exceed ±3 mm. The newer the equipment and the more responsible the employees of the manufacturer, the more accurate the output dimensions. Do not try to buy products of a cheap segment, in the end the savings will turn into losses.

The technology of facing buildings with clinker bricks

We have already mentioned that for clinker bricks, the requirements for a cement-sand mortar differ from the standard ones; only an experienced bricklayer can prepare the mass. Only he knows how much to reduce the amount of water, taking into account the weather and the place of masonry. Otherwise, the thickness of the seams and the degree of adhesion will be violated, and this has an extremely negative effect on appearance and indicators of stability of the lined wall.

It is possible to clad buildings both during the construction of walls and after its completion. In addition, during cladding it is possible additional insulation facade.

We will tell step by step instructions all types of work, we will separately consider each technology. Let's talk about possible mistakes inexperienced masons.

Building cladding without insulation

The method is most often used during the repair of old structures with satisfactory heat saving performance. General Tips for all types of cladding - the mortar should have a viscosity slightly higher than for laying with ordinary red bricks, add more cement to it, use only river sand without including clay.

For facing works you will need a mason's spirit level, a mason's pickaxe, a tape measure, metal square bars with a side of 6-10 mm, a trowel, special tools for internal and or external jointing.

Can be purchased at a hardware store plastic or metal fixtures to equalize the thickness of the seams. How to work with them, what are their advantages and disadvantages, we will describe below.

Prices for building levels

Building levels

And the last. The requirements for the quality of masonry during cladding are much higher than when laying walls. Accordingly, these works can be performed only by those masters who have considerable practical experience as a bricklayer.

Step 1. Checking the condition of the foundation and load-bearing walls. Highly important point, take this procedure with great responsibility, it is very difficult to correct the errors found during the cladding, and in some cases it is impossible, you will have to disassemble the finished cladding. How to check and what to look for?

Step 2 Lay out the first row of facing bricks without mortar. Start at one of the corners and work your way to the opposite. If the last brick in the corner protrudes too much, or vice versa, its length is not enough to overlap, then try moving the entire row to the left or right. It is impossible to find the optimal position - you have to cut the brick. Measure the length with a tape measure, make the cut as even as possible. You need to have as many such cut bricks as there are rows of cladding. You can immediately prepare several pieces, or you can measure and cut each separately as needed. How to overlay door and window openings, we will describe below. The laying of the first row is a very important point, you need to dwell on it separately.

Practical advice. In order to make the problem area less noticeable, during laying, use not one very short brick, but several with a difference in length of no more than a centimeter.

You will have to cut several bricks, which complicates the cladding process a bit. But the problem is solved professional level and becomes invisible. And one more note. You will find out the specific width of the seam only after the tape is completely laid out around the perimeter. Start fitting with eight millimeters, and later, after laying out and shifting the bricks, you will find out the exact width of the seam. Based on these data, select the dimensions of metal bars for cladding.

Step 3. Prepare a cement-sand mortar. We have already mentioned that clinker does not absorb water, make the solution somewhat thicker. If the cladding is made of non-standard bricks, then every 4-5 rows you need to stop work for a day or two to solidify the mortar. It doesn't mean that construction works generally stop, just move on to finishing the next wall and so on around the perimeter of the house.

Important. Be sure to sift sand for mortar or buy clean in warehouses. Small stones will create problems during laying, you will have to remove the laid brick and remove the stone. Otherwise, the seam will be uneven, and this should absolutely not be allowed.

Prepare all the tools, they should be at hand. Don't make too much mortar, cladding is much slower than laying walls. The solution during this time will be able to freeze or exfoliate into fractions. Both the first and the second require additional efforts to restore its properties. You need to start facing from the corners of the building.

Masonry corners

A very important and responsible moment. Then the entire lining will be equal in the corners, any mistake can be critical.

Step 1. Put a layer of mortar about 1 cm thick on the foundation tape, if the unevenness of the tape is alarming, then the thickness of the mortar can be increased up to two centimeters. In the future, due to this, it is possible to maintain the horizontality of the first lower row of cladding without problems.

Step 2 The height of the corner should be done by about 4-5 bricks. To do this, the first row should be 4 bricks long, all subsequent rows are half a brick shorter. Lay the first row of the corner, constantly control its position horizontally and vertically with a level. To level the position, lightly tap on the surface of the bricks with a hammer or trowel handle. The thickness of the seam at the junction of the ends of the brick can be controlled by home-made or purchased devices. What is it and how to work with them, we will tell in the course of the article.

Step 3 Carefully continue to pull the corner up, once again check its position in all planes. Watch the thickness of the seams with special devices.

Lay the second corner of the wall according to the same algorithm. If cladding technology is required, then all corners of the building can be made immediately. How many there will be depends on the architectural features of the structure. Next, you can start facing the surfaces of the walls.

Practical advice. If you do not have enough experience, then be sure to use various devices to control the thickness of the seam. Devices can be made independently or bought at a factory-made store.

Homemade devices for controlling the thickness of the seam

To create a seam of the same thickness, squares, hexagons or wire rod of appropriate sizes are used. For a horizontal seam, rods about 50 cm long are needed, a vertical seam is controlled by rods about 15 cm long. The main condition for all rods is that they must be as even as possible. The thickness is selected taking into account the required dimensions of the seam; during cladding, it is recommended that it be approximately eight millimeters. Before starting the cladding, pull the rope between the corners at the level of the front surface, make sure that it does not sag. It controls the position of the bricks. For each new row, you need to raise the rope in the corners. When the height of the cladding is equal to the height of the corners, proceed to laying new corners and the same height. When and how to embroider the seams, we will tell further. How to use the devices?

Step 1. Start laying a horizontal seam, prepare a container with mass, a trowel and a rod.

Step 2 Place a long bar on a row of bricks, it should lie on about three bricks at a time. The outer edge of the bar should be in line with the edge of the bricks.

Step 3 With a trowel, put the mass on bricks with a thickness slightly greater than the thickness of the bar.

Step 4 Align the mass layer. At the same time, keep the trowel slightly at an angle. One side should slide along the bar, and the other side should equalize the mass. Mass thickness with opposite side may be slightly more than the height of the bar, but in no case less. The fact is that you can level the horizontal position by lightly tapping the hammer on the raised part of the brick. If it lies below horizontal level, you will have to remove it and re-enclose the solution.

Step 5 Lean a short rod against the end of the brick, align its position in the corner.

Step 6 Apply cement-sand mortar, level it. Align also with a margin of thickness at the opposite side of the brick.

Step 7 Put the brick in place and correct its position. Use a skein or trowel for this.

Step 8 When the length of the horizontal bar is not enough, take it out and put it in a new place. If the bar is smooth and even, then you can not completely remove it, but stretch it along the seam. With minimal skill, this technology significantly speeds up laying - you do not have to overwrite the seams, or this work will be much easier.

Practical advice. Start facing the house from the wall opposite the facade. If there are minor errors, then no one will pay attention to them. And further. During work, you will be able to gain practical experience in masonry, and this is very important. You can be sure that you will lay each row much faster, it will turn out smoother and more beautiful.

factory fixtures

We recommend using a plastic mason's set. It consists of two accessories: for a horizontal seam and for a vertical seam. The kit allows you to make a mortar of uniform thickness on bricks, increases the speed of facing and has a positive effect on quality. Additionally, the position of the bricks in each row is controlled, they are automatically aligned along one line. Disadvantages - it is impossible to adjust the thickness of the seam depending on the layout of the first row. Another drawback - the small length of the device for a horizontal seam complicates the work somewhat.

Important. Purchase fixtures for the size of clinker bricks.

How to use plastic fixtures?

Step 1. Put the device on the bricks, sketch the mortar and level its surface with a trowel, remove the excess.

Step 2 Move the plastic frame to free place and repeat the operation. Continue to lay the mass on three or four bricks. As the template moves, the back side will evenly remove excess mortar and level the surface.

Step 3 Put the first brick in place and lightly tap it on the surface until the mass is extruded. If you have experience, then there is no need to check the level of the position. Do such checks after several rows, problems are found - fix them in several steps.

Step 4 Place the smaller fixture at the end of the laid brick, throw in the mass and level it. Lay the next brick, move it a little to the one already lying before the mass is squeezed out.

Experienced craftsmen do not use such devices, and for beginners, such a measure will help to fill their hands. We have already mentioned that the specific width of the solution can only be determined after the layout of the first row. Depending on how it lies, the thickness of the seam changes, and the device has fixed parameters, this is a disadvantage.

How to make jumpers

For jumpers you can use metal corners or twigs. If the corner has dimensions of 100 × 100 mm, then you can put one, if the shelves are smaller, then take two, one on each side of the brick. The number of bars depends on the diameter, but in any case there cannot be less than two. The diameter of the bars cannot exceed the thickness of the seam.

The metal should be cleaned of rust and covered with a high-quality primer; after finishing the lining, the surface will be painted in the desired color. The length of the jumper stop on each side of the opening is at least 15 cm. You should not use too thick jumpers for two reasons. Firstly, the elements must hold the weight only until the solution hardens, in the future, the load on them is minimal. Secondly, too thick jumpers are then difficult to make invisible, and this spoils the appearance of the building.

Stitching

An important point, the complexity depends on the correctness of the chosen time. You can find advice to do the stitching 3-4 days after the end of the work. Do not take into account such recommendations, they are given by those who have never done anything with their own hands. After 3-4 days cement mortar completely hardens, you will have to scratch the surface with great effort to level the seam. When exactly to start jointing depends on the speed of laying. The more practical experience, the more bricks you will have time to lay. Focuses on the state of the solution. As soon as it begins to resemble soft plasticine, proceed to align the seams.

The patch can be:

• concave or convex. Most complex types, it is possible to embroider only on a relatively fresh solution. The convex part of the solution should lie in the same plane with the bricks;
• straight with deepening or undercut. The former is most commonly used due to its simplicity and versatility. The second is used only by the most experienced craftsmen on high quality bricks. Requires great practical skills, the plane of the jointing must exactly match the plane of the facing bricks;
• single-sided or double-sided. It is rarely used, mostly for decoration of decorative architectural elements.

Stitching tools can be purchased at stores or made from any materials at hand, such as metal, plastic or wood.

Practical advice. The width of any type of joint should be slightly less than the thickness of the joint. The fact is that it will never be possible to achieve ideal thickness parameters over the entire area of ​​\u200b\u200bthe house, there will be sections a few millimeters wider or narrower. The device must pass through all lines without jamming.

Most hard way stitching - the use of special colored decorative mixtures. We will consider it in detail.

Step 1. Using a joint and a metal brush, clean the seams from the mortar to a depth of about 8-10 millimeters, remove dust and grout residues with a stiff bristle brush.

Step 2. E If the seams are completely dry, it is recommended to moisten them with water. Use spray guns or watering hoses for this.

Important. If dirty streaks appear on the front surface of the cladding, wash them off immediately or wipe them with a clean cloth.

Step 3 Prepare a special solution for jointing, it is sold in hardware stores. There is no way to purchase - make it yourself. To do this, mix dry sand with cement in a ratio of 3: 1 and add mineral dye desired color. Mix everything thoroughly. Prepare a dry solution immediately for the whole house and with a margin. Further, as necessary, portionwise dilute it with water and use for jointing.

Step 4 Take the desired jointing and gradually fill the gap between the rows of bricks with it. Level and remove excess at the same time. If the solution gets on the front of the brick, then remove it with a slightly damp cloth or foam rubber. The mortar is pressed in with sufficient force, otherwise the new joint will fall off and fall out of the seams.

The work is long and uninteresting, but the result always justifies the effort.

How to do simultaneous warming

Today, a number of legislative acts have been adopted on the compliance of buildings for various purposes with energy efficiency standards. Do it without using modern technologies and thermal insulation materials is almost impossible. For example, for middle lane RF thickness of a brick wall must be at least 120 cm, and the thickness of a wooden frame within 50 cm. Only such walls meet the heat saving standards.

No one will build houses with such wall thickness, the way out is the use of effective heaters. The most commonly used mineral wool (pressed or rolled) and foam. Simultaneously with wall cladding, it is recommended to make insulation.

Step 1. Decide on the type and size of insulation. We will consider an example of using pressed mineral wool 6 cm thick and 60 cm high.

Step 2 Using the above method, bring the height of the cladding to the level of 8 rows, in height it will be approximately 60 cm. Specific values ​​\u200b\u200bdepend on the thickness of the seam and the dimensions of the clinker facing brick.

Step 3 Buy thermal insulation material. During the acquisition, pay attention to the density and the possibility of shrinkage. The fact is that the sheets will lie vertically on top of each other, under the influence of gravity they should not deform and sag.

Step 4 Drop into the gap between bearing wall and lining the thermal insulation plate, the distance between the lining and the insulation should be approximately two centimeters. Through them, natural ventilation of the space will occur.

Mineral wool prices

Mineral wool

Ventilation in the air space between the insulation and the cladding is provided by air, they can be made with special gratings inserted into the cladding or by not filling some vertical seams with a cement-sand mass. The second option looks better externally, but is less effective. Which ventilation method to choose depends only on the preferences of the developer and the material used to make the load-bearing walls. If you have chosen a suture arrangement of products, then they should be every three meters in height and every meter in width in a checkerboard pattern.

Step 5 To ensure a gap between the insulation and the cladding, use flexible ties. They consist of both a fiberglass rod and wide spacer washers. They are laid on the brickwork and pressed against the load-bearing wall insulation. Use at least three ties for each mat.

Ways of fixing the cladding to the bearing walls

There are two opinions among professionals about strengthening the rows of cladding. Some argue that the masonry in the corners is securely connected and no additional work needs to be done to increase its stability. Others, on the contrary, insist on fixing in without fail. We believe that fixing never hurts, and it can bring many benefits. In addition, time does not play an important role in the cladding process. Make a fix and live in the house quietly.

Cladding is fastened in several ways.

With the help of building reinforcement. Use reinforcement with a diameter within 5 mm, there is no need for thicker, it is difficult to work with. Using a drill with a victorious solder, make holes in the wall up to a depth of 10 cm, drill at an angle to the plane of about 45 °. This position prevents the reinforcement from pulling out during loading. The advantages of using building reinforcement: high reliability, the ability to adjust the length of the rod depending on the characteristics of the load-bearing wall and cladding. Disadvantages: each bar has to be aligned along the plane of the facing bricks; it should not protrude beyond the seams.

With perforated profiles. Such profiles are sold in stores and are used during the installation of suspended ceilings or plasterboard wall cladding. Advantages - the plates bend under right angle, which makes it possible to install clamps on the entire wall even before the building is faced with clinker bricks, and then precisely adjust their position. Disadvantages - the cost is slightly higher than that of building reinforcement.

It is recommended to strengthen the wall after 5-7 rows, specific distances should take into account the characteristics of the load-bearing wall and cladding. If there are many window openings, then between each of them it is necessary to install metal clamps. This is especially true for cases where window frames fixed to the lining.

The brick does not hold. There are three reasons. The first is too liquid solution. The second is too thick a solution. Third - the brick is laid very unevenly from the first time, to level the position you have to tap several times with different parties. During the shifts, the mortar exfoliates from the plane of the brick, dries up a little, and the adhesion weakens sharply. Remove the old solution and apply a new one.

Non-professionals try to adjust the position of the bricks with an accuracy of tenths of a millimeter. It is not necessary to do this, we have already mentioned that frequent movements reduce traction. For any masonry, a deviation from the stretched rope of ±1 mm is acceptable. It is completely invisible to the eye.

After the laying of the cladding, spots remain on the surface. This is a consequence of untimely cleaning of the cladding from the trapped solution. Clean it with a damp cloth immediately after you find it, do not leave it for later. Do not let the solution completely harden.

Take the brick with only one hand, always hold the trowel in the second. They put the brick in place - immediately correct it with the handle of the trowel. The faster you do this operation, the stronger the masonry.

If the mortar settles quickly, add cement and stir. If it hardens quickly, there is little sand. Keep an eye on consistency. Don't leave the solution on your lunch break. It is not a problem to dilute it with water, the problem is that the cement will lose its original properties. And this should not be allowed when facing walls with clinker bricks. It already has a lower adhesion coefficient with mortar compared to red brick.

Silicate brick size: parameters and features of the material

Reading time ≈ 4 minutes

Today, new building materials often crowd out traditional ones on the market, occupying their niches, due to low cost, ease of manufacture, use and operation, and the possibility of organizing mass production. In particular, this trend can be traced in the field of production and use of various types of small-piece products. Nevertheless, the fact remains that it is very difficult for the new materials being popularized today to push clinker bricks on the market. This is explained by the fact that this type of brick is characterized by a huge number of colors and textures. And if we add to this impressive durability, reliability and environmental friendliness, it becomes clear why, until now, clinker bricks in the construction industry are out of competition.

Production technology

The term "clinker" itself has German roots and means "brick" in translation. It is traditionally believed that small-piece clinker products with the best properties are produced in Germany and Poland. The manufacturing technology of this type of brick is very simple: it is produced by firing in specially equipped kilns by exposing refractory grades of clay to high temperatures (working temperature indicators, which are about 1200 ° C, are an order of magnitude higher than when firing standard ceramic bricks) until complete sintering raw materials. As a result, we can safely say that since only clay is included in the clinker bricks produced today, such material is more likely to be ceramic products like faience or terracotta. It should be noted that the clinker production process requires scrupulous observance of all technological nuances, a special attitude to the molding of products and the quality of the feedstock.

Varieties of clinker bricks

The varieties of this material that exist today determine the features of the application of each specific type of these products.

1. Clinker facade tiles is a kind of decorative facing small-piece material used in the decoration of facades, as well as as a decorative finishing material(for interior decoration) premises various types. Its release is regulated by GOST 530-2012. Today, hollow, full-bodied facade clinker is produced.
2. Technical clinker is used for arranging sidewalks, pavements, garden paths, platforms both outside and inside. Paving clinker is a more expensive type of technical clinker, which has the same scope.
3. Acid-resistant clinker has excellent ability to withstand various aggressive environments. It is actively used when laying out the facades of buildings and structures.
4. Waterproof clinker has proven itself well in the arrangement of various hydraulic structures operated in high humidity conditions.
5. Specialized clinker allows you to finish surfaces with intricate, complex shapes. The production of small-piece products of this type involves the manufacture of diverse corner elements (in addition to standard ones). Some manufacturers offer clinker facing bricks for various surfaces.
6. Clinker used in decorative finishing works or in the construction of structures (arbors, fences, sheds, etc.) with a small load on the supporting structures.

The production of all types of clinker bricks, except for facade bricks, is not standardized and regulated specifications each specific manufacturer. The difference in the characteristics of each type of clinker is achieved by using different types of clays that differ in the initial data.

Dimensions and weight

The main dimensions of the clinker:

• 250 x 120 x 65 mm (1 NF - single);
• 250 x 85 x 65 mm (0.7 NF - "euro");
• 250 x 60 x 65 mm (0.5 NF - half).

In the manufacture of non-standard products, deviations in dimensions are allowed (dimensions are set by a specific manufacturer on an individual basis).

The weight of clinker bricks depends on the manufacturer and can vary from 1.6 to 3.3 kg.

Technical characteristics of clinker bricks

Depending on the brand and manufacturer, there may be the following characteristics:

• strength grades: M200-M1000;
• water absorption: 3-6%;
• density: from 1500 to 2000 kg/m³;
• thermal conductivity: from 0.4 to 0.9 W / (m ° C);
• frost resistance: from 100 to 300 cycles;
• voidness: up to 48%.

Advantages

• more than a solid service life (at least 100 years);
• high aesthetic qualities;
• high strength characteristics;
• the possibility of manufacturing a huge range of products with any shape, color, texture;
• the possibility of a wide scope of application;
• versatility.

Flaws

The disadvantages of clinker products include a very significant point - their high cost, exceeding at least 2 times the price of conventional ceramic bricks. However, if we consider this factor in the light of the fact that the service life of clinker objects is several times higher than the same indicators for structures made of ordinary brick, then talk about the shortcomings of the first does not stand up to criticism. In addition, for laying this type of brick, it is necessary to apply special solutions, due to its low water absorption.

Reasoned Choice

When deciding on the choice of clinker bricks as building material, it is worth studying in detail the photo, video of various examples of its use in the construction of objects of varying complexity and purpose. After reviewing the reviews on the operation of clinker brick structures, we can conclude that today it is the optimal material for the construction of objects of any complexity.

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