How to Easily Install Thin Bricks: A Comprehensive Guide

by Howard Webb
Materials Needed:

  • CMU Block (Optional)
  • Water Resistant Drywall (Optional)
  • Green Board or Blue Board
  • Cement Board (Optional)
  • Hardie Board or Durock
  • Reinforcing Lath and Mesh (Optional)
  • Corrosion-resistant materials like galvanized or stainless steel
  • Metal lath: 2.5 lb/sq yd or 3⁄8 in. rib, 3.4 lb/sq yd complying with ASTM C847
  • Self-furred lath or lath attached with self-furring fasteners recommended
  • Woven wire mesh: minimum 18 gauge complying with ASTM C1032.  


To Be Used For Installation:

Mortar (Optional)
Non-Sagging Adhesive - Compatible With Thin Brick Veneer & Substrate (Optional)
Alkali-Resistant Glass Fiber Mesh Tape (Optional)


Tools Needed:

  • Caulk & Adhesive Gun (Optional)
  • 1/8“ Square-Notched Trowel (Optional)
  • 3/8” Brick Joint Spacers
  • Rubber Mallet
  • Striking Tool or Trowel
  • Angle Grinder With Masonry Cutting Disc
  • Level
  • Mortar Gun or Grout Bag
  • Bucket
  • Stiff Brush
  • Safety Glasses
  • Dust Mask or Respirator
  • Gloves
  • The need for optional items may vary depending on the installation method that is chosen.


Substrate and Surface Preparation:

  1. Ensure the substrate is structurally sound and free of loose debris or residue
  2. Remove all substances that could impede bonding of the veneer
  3. Surface should not vary from plane by more than 1/4 in. in 10 ft.
  4. Apply leveling coat if surface does not comply with tolerance.


Exterior Installation

  1. Apply metal lath or wire mesh over the water-resistant barrier as recommended.
  2. Attach lath or mesh to wood stud framing with corrosion-resistant fasteners.
  3. Apply a scratch coat of mortar with a nominal thickness of 1/2 to 3/4 in. until fully embedded in the mortar.
  4. Apply a bond coat of mortar or modified mortar over a damp scratch coat to a nominal thickness of 1/8 in. and groove with a square-notched trowel.
  5. Firmly press or tap each thin brick into place, maintaining proper level, spacing, and alignment.
  6. Fill the mortar joints between thin bricks.
  7. Allow the bond coat to cure 24 hours or until joints can be filled without displacement of the brick.     

 Interior Installation

Choose installation method: Adhesive or Modified Mortar.

 

  1. Clean entire back of the thin brick veneer with a damp sponge.
  2. Apply adhesive or modified mortar according to manufacturer’s instructions.
  3. Firmly press or tap each thin brick into place.
  4. Fill the mortar joints between thin bricks.
  5. Allow the bond coat to cure 24 hours or until joints can be filled without displacement of the brick.

Maintenance:

Minimal maintenance is required if properly designed and constructed.
Inspect brick veneer annually for performance and potential problems.
By following these steps and guidelines, installing thin bricks can be a straightforward and rewarding project.

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