New England Cream

By definition bricks that sit below the DPC will be exposed to potential saturation from water migrating from the ground up through the brickwork. In such a situations it is important to choose bricks that are both Frost Resistant (F2) and have low Active Soluble Salts content (S2) as defined in EN771-1 Standard for Clay Masonry Units. All our facing brick products meet the F2/S2 classifications and as such are suitable for use in locations subject to severe exposure. This includes areas above and below ground level (approximately 2 courses above and below). Bricks used deeper below ground level, whilst equally saturated, are less likely to be subjected to freezing conditions.

Unless specifically instructed otherwise all bricks should be laid from a mix of at least four packs, and unload each pack diagonally. Whilst every effort is made to ensure consistency some products can show slight variation between batches and loads should be checked for colour consistency and where possible mixed further to obtain a consistent blend or their use managed to avoid ‘banding’ in areas of brickwork already.

Bricks should be cut using a wet saw supplied with a constant flow of clean water. Dry cutting or the use of dirty recirculated water can result in a build-up of dust / slurry on the face of the bricks which is often impossible to remove without having a detrimental effect on the appearance of the product. Cutting and drilling of bricks should be carried out in accordance with all relevant safety and environmental requirements.