Warm Up Rio Rancho Homes With Builders Materials: Stunning Fireplaces, Brick & Stone Designs for You

What’s the Difference Between Full Brick and Thin Brick?

When most people picture a brick home or wall, they see a traditional, solid unit that can stand strong for centuries. But modern building practices and design flexibility have made thinner brick options an increasingly popular alternative for those that don’t want something so heavy duty that takes a long time to build.

Why opt for one over the other?

• Full brick is a solid masonry unit, typically 3 – 4 inches thick, that’s made from clay that’s fired in a kiln for durability. Full bricks are self-supporting and can form entire walls, chimneys, and load-bearing structures.
• Thin brick is a slice of real brick or a manufactured veneer, usually ½ – 1 inch thick. It’s meant to be more cosmetic and decorative and won’t provide much structural strength or support. In addition, it must be attached to a backing surface, like drywall, concrete board, or masonry.

Between thin brick and full brick, which will perform better and last longer?

You can probably guess the winner here – full brick will last longer and provide better insulation, fire resistance, and durability than its thinner counterpart. In fact, with proper care and maintenance, we’re talking generations of lasting beauty.

While thin brick provides the look of brick, it doesn’t deliver the same thermal mass, load-bearing capacity, or weather resistance. However, when properly sealed, it still offers good durability and can last a long time.

What’s easier to install – full brick or thin brick?

Here thin brick wins out. It’s much lighter and easier to install than full brick, and it can quite easily be applied indoors or outdoors. On the flip side, full brick installation requires traditional masonry techniques and materials – think mortar beds, proper foundations, and skilled labor – which can make projects heavier, longer, and more costly.

So, which is best for my project – full brick or thin brick?

Full brick adds substantial depth and texture to a building, contributing to a classic, timeless aesthetic. Choose full brick for structural masonry projects, exterior walls, and situations where strength and longevity are essential.

Thinner brick allows for brick-like finishes in places where full brick isn’t practical, such as accent walls, fireplace surrounds, or remodeling projects. Choose thin brick for decorative applications or for when you want the look of brick without the cost and weight of traditional masonry.

When Should I Choose Pavers Instead of Full Brick?

Brick and pavers may look similar, but they’re designed for different purposes.

• Brick is typically used in vertical applications like walls, chimneys, and facades, offering strength, insulation, and a timeless aesthetic.
• Pavers, on the other hand, are made specifically for flat surfaces such as patios, driveways, and walkways.

Bricks used in flat surfaces may chip or spall more easily under foot or vehicle traffic compared to purpose-made pavers, which are engineered to handle heavy traffic, resist cracking from freeze-thaw cycles, and be easily replaced if one section gets damaged.

Your Rio Rancho Source for Fireplace Products: We Love This Area

Rio Rancho, also known as “City of Vision” is a city focused on growth and development. While it’s part of the Albuquerque metro area, it still retains its own identity, featuring more space, a bit more of a suburban/rural feel, and stunning views of the Sandia Mountains. For many, it’s a sweet balance – closeness to the amenities of Albuquerque, but with more breathing room and a strong sense of community.

Fun fact: The Rio Rancho High School campus has been used for filming scenes in both Breaking Bad and Better Call Saul.

What’s there to do around town? Consider visiting…

• Rio Rancho Events Center, a multipurpose arena that hosts concerts, sporting events, rodeos, trade shows and more.
• A Park Above, a fully inclusive and accessible playground spanning several acres, with adaptive swings, musical installations, splash pad, labyrinth walk, and more, designed for all ages and abilities.
• Willow Creek Trail, which is a great spot for hiking and getting outdoors locally.

From community parks like Haynes Community Center & Park (with pools, courts, picnic spaces) to local eateries, game spots, and music venues, Rio Rancho is a city with lots to offer. We provide fireplace services here, as well as throughout Paradise Hills, Los Ranchos de Albuquerque, Sandia Heights, Carnuel, Pajarito Mesa, Alameda, Bosque Farms, Peralta, Edgewood, and more.

Can Thin Brick Be Used Both Indoors and Outdoors?

Thin brick is a versatile building material, designed to capture the authentic look of full brick without its weight or installation demands. It’s lightweight, easy to handle, and comes in a wide range of styles and colors, making it a great alternative to the “real thing.”

But many wonder if its benefits can be extended past indoor spaces… Can thin brick be used for outdoor projects?

The answer is yes…but with some important considerations for the outdoor use:

• Consider moisture protection. Thin brick isn’t structural, so it needs a solid backing and proper flashing, drainage, and mortar to prevent water damage.
• Invest in proper installation. Adhesive and mortar systems vary for interior vs. exterior applications, so outdoor installations generally require more durable bonding methods. Work with a pro to make sure nothing is missed or overlooked.
• Think about the effects of your climate. When installed correctly, thin brick holds up in a variety of climates, but in freeze/thaw regions, choosing high-quality products and proper sealing is important – not a huge problem for us in the Rio Rancho area, but something to consider, nonetheless.

Long story short: Thin brick is an adaptable option for both indoor and outdoor use, as long as installation follows best practices, especially for moisture management.

Where’s the best place to utilize thin brick indoors and outdoors?

Inside the home, thin brick is often used for accent walls, kitchen backsplashes, fireplace surrounds, and even basements or wine cellars. Commercial spaces like restaurants and offices also use thin brick to add atmosphere and a timeless look.

Outdoors, thin brick can be applied to facades, siding, garden walls, and entryways for classic curb appeal. It’s also a smart choice for outdoor kitchens, bars, and fire features since it delivers the charm of masonry without the structural demands of full brick.

Thin Brick vs. Full Brick: Which Lasts Longer?

So, you can’t decide… Go with the lasting (albeit more expensive and time-consuming to install) heavy classic brick for your project? Or make installation easier with thin brick, knowing it may not stand the test of time quite as well? Let’s break it down.

How long does thin brick last? How long will full brick last?

• Full brick walls or features can last 75 – 100+ years with proper construction. When cared for correctly, full bricks are capable of withstanding decades of weather exposure and load-bearing applications.
• Thin brick can last 30 – 50+ years with proper installation and sealing. That’s still a long time! Although not as lasting as full brick, thin brick is still tough… It’s just not load-bearing, so its strength comes from its backing surface and installation system.

Of course, longevity can be extended with proper maintenance. The good news is that both are fairly low-need in terms of extra care.

Thin brick is more vulnerable to cracking or chipping if struck, so try to avoid collisions – although individual pieces can typically be replaced fairly easily, if needed. Thin brick may also need occasional washing with mild soap and water.

Full brick just requires some occasional washing to remove dirt or moss. Just remember that, over time, mortar can deteriorate, requiring tuckpointing or repointing, usually needed every couple decades. We also recommend investing in a waterproofing sealant.

Work With Builders for New Fireplace Installation

Your home in Rio Rancho deserves more than the basics… It deserves features that reflect your taste and enhance the way you live. Builders Materials is here to provide just that with new fireplaces, brick facades, and stone designs built to last. Whether you’re updating a family room, adding an outdoor fire feature, or reimagining your exterior, we’ll guide you every step of the way.

Stop by our Albuquerque showroom or reach out today.