types of exterior brick

Types of Exterior Brick: A Comprehensive Guide

By Mark RodriguezJanuary 15, 2026

Brick, a timeless building material, offers a wealth of options for exterior cladding. With a variety of types, each boasting unique characteristics, selecting the perfect brick can enhance your home's curb appeal, durability, and energy efficiency. Let's delve into the fascinating world of exterior brick types.

Exterior bricks can be categorized into several types based on their manufacturing process, composition, and appearance. Understanding these categories can help you make an informed decision when choosing the ideal brick for your project.

Manufactured Bricks

Manufactured bricks, also known as artificial or clay bricks, are produced in factories under controlled conditions. This process allows for a high degree of standardization and a wide range of designs and colors.

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Manufactured bricks are typically made from a mixture of clay and other materials, which are then molded, dried, and fired in a kiln. This process results in a durable, uniform product that is resistant to weathering and easy to maintain.

Wire-Cut Bricks

Wire-cut bricks are one of the most common types of manufactured bricks. They are extruded through a die, cut with a wire, and then dried and fired. This process gives wire-cut bricks a smooth, uniform surface and straight edges, making them ideal for modern architectural styles.

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Wire-cut bricks are available in a variety of colors, from earthy tones to vibrant hues, allowing for endless design possibilities. They are also relatively inexpensive, making them a popular choice for both residential and commercial projects.

Stock Bricks

Stock bricks, or machine-made bricks, are produced using a similar process to wire-cut bricks but with a different cutting method. Instead of being cut with a wire, stock bricks are cut with a machine, resulting in a slightly irregular surface and edges.

Stock bricks are often used in traditional and heritage-style architecture, as their texture and appearance mimic the look of handmade bricks. They are also a cost-effective option, offering a balance between aesthetics and affordability.

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Natural Bricks

Natural bricks, also known as clay bricks, are made from naturally occurring clay deposits. They are typically fired at lower temperatures than manufactured bricks, resulting in a more rustic, earthy appearance.

Natural bricks are often used in restoration projects and for maintaining the historic character of a building. They are also an eco-friendly option, as they are made from renewable resources and require less energy to produce than manufactured bricks.

Frog Bricks

Frog bricks, or frogged bricks, are a type of natural brick that features a depression, or "frog," on one or more of its surfaces. This depression was originally designed to hold mortar, making it easier to lay the bricks and ensuring a strong bond between them.

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Today, frog bricks are often used for their aesthetic appeal. The frogs can be filled with mortar or left empty, creating a unique textured surface that adds visual interest to a building's exterior. Frog bricks are commonly used in traditional and historic architecture.

Handmade Bricks

Handmade bricks are produced using traditional methods, with each brick being shaped by hand. This process results in a unique, irregular shape and texture that is prized by architects and builders seeking an authentic, historic look.

Handmade bricks are typically made from local clay, giving them a connection to the land and a sense of place. They are often used in restoration projects and for maintaining the historic character of a building. However, they can be more expensive than other types of bricks due to the labor-intensive production process.

When selecting exterior bricks, consider factors such as durability, maintenance, energy efficiency, and, of course, aesthetics. By understanding the different types of bricks available, you can make an informed decision that will enhance your home's curb appeal and stand the test of time. So go ahead, explore the world of exterior bricks, and let your creativity run wild!