Published by UK Bricks & Slips. First published 18 July 2025. Updated 26 October 2026.
Brick slips are thin facing pieces used to create the appearance of brickwork on a suitable backing. Instead of building a full-depth brick wall, the slips form its visible finish. They are also sold as brick tiles or brick veneers, so it is useful to compare the actual material and specification behind the name.
If you are planning a feature wall, an extension finish or a brick-faced interior, this guide explains the decisions to make before ordering. To compare colours and products, visit our brick slips range.
How are brick slips made?
Some slips are cut from full bricks, keeping the texture and colour of the original face. Others are manufactured directly in a thinner format. Brick-effect products can also be made from other materials, so a similar photograph does not necessarily mean two products have the same composition or performance.
Cut slips can offer a way to coordinate a thin facing with full bricks elsewhere in a project. Our bespoke brick slip builder lets you explore the available cutting options. Confirm the proposed brick, format and quantities before relying on a particular match.
A weathered or rustic appearance does not mean the material is reclaimed. If the origin or manufacturing method matters to your design, check the individual product information rather than relying on a style description.
Brick slips, full bricks and tiles: what is the difference?
The main distinction is the role each product plays in the construction. A brick slip is a facing; full masonry units may form part of a designed wall. Slips do not replace the structural function of full brickwork, and the backing must be suitable for the weight and fixing system.
| What to compare | Brick slips | Full bricks |
|---|---|---|
| Purpose | A brick-faced finish on a suitable backing | Masonry units for the specified wall construction |
| Dimensions | Check face size and slip thickness | Check length, width and height |
| Installation | A compatible fixing or cladding system | The mortar, bond and detailing specified for the masonry |
| Order planning | Area, joints, cuts and corner formats | Wall construction, quantities, openings and special shapes |
Brick slips and tiles both offer surface finishes, but installation requirements vary with material and application. Check whether the chosen product needs pointing, grouting, sealing or a particular adhesive. There is no single method that applies to everything described as a brick tile.
For a fuller comparison, read brick slips versus traditional brickwork. Our sizes and thickness guide explains how to measure the complete finish.
Where can you use brick slips?
Interior feature walls
A brick finish can bring colour and surface texture to a living room, hallway or other interior. Start by assessing the wall surface and the proposed fixing system. Account for the complete build-up at sockets, skirting, door frames and adjoining finishes.
Kitchens and splashbacks
Consider cleaning and exposure to grease or water as well as appearance. Ask whether the selected product needs a compatible treatment and what maintenance is recommended. Test any approved sealer on a sample because it may change the look of the face.
Fireplaces and stove surrounds
A decorative surround and the inside of a working firebox are different applications. Suitability depends on the appliance requirements, clearances, backing and temperature limits of the complete installation, including adhesive and pointing materials. Do not assume that a clay facing makes the whole system suitable for heat exposure.
Exterior walls
For an outside application, establish that the slips and fixing system suit the intended exposure and wall construction. External cladding needs appropriate detailing and a suitable specification. Use the relevant manufacturer guidance and project advice before choosing products.
Explore feature-wall ideas, the practical considerations for kitchens and bathrooms, and the specific checks for fireplaces and chimney breasts or external brick slip systems.
Choosing colour, texture and mortar
Look at the overall blend rather than one piece in isolation. A red multi, a pale cream and a weathered yellow can each create a different effect, and variations within a blend influence the finished wall. Texture also changes the way light and shadow fall across the surface.
The joints are a visible part of the design. Compare mortar colours and the intended joint width alongside the slips. Check sample availability and view your selection in the light where it will be installed before committing to a full order.
For existing brickwork, use our brick matching service. Photographs, measurements and samples help narrow the choice; a screen image alone cannot establish an exact match.
Use our guides to colours and mortar combinations, assessing samples and brick slip patterns to refine your shortlist.
How many brick slips will you need?
Measure the area to be covered and account for openings. Record returns, reveals and corners separately, then check the coverage and ordering unit for the product you have selected. Slips with different dimensions or joint widths can cover different areas.
Use our brick slip calculator for an initial estimate. Allow for the actual layout, cuts and wastage, and round up to the available box or pack quantities. Confirm which formats are included: a header, stretcher and corner piece should not be treated as interchangeable.
The measuring guide and worksheet walks through the calculation. Record corners and reveals separately; for a bespoke finish, read our cut-to-order planning guide.
Planning installation and the total cost
Compare the complete order rather than the price of a single box. Depending on the project, you may also need corner pieces, adhesive, pointing material, spacers, surface preparation and installation labour. Delivery is another part of the total, particularly for mixed orders.
Check the compatibility and coverage of the selected fixing products. The installer should follow the product and system guidance for preparation, setting out, fixing and finishing. Resolve any uncertainty about the substrate or intended use before materials arrive.
Read our delivery information when planning access and scheduling. If you need a coordinated order, request a quote with your preferred products, measurements and finishing details.
Build a budget with the brick slip cost guide, then work through wall preparation and the installation sequence. The guides to adhesive selection, pointing and mortar and cleaning and sealing explain the product-specific checks.
Frequently asked questions
Are brick slips real bricks?
Many are cut from real bricks, while others are made in a thin format or from alternative materials. Check the composition and manufacturing information for the specific listing.
Do brick slips have one standard thickness?
No. Confirm the selected product's dimensions and allow for the backing, adhesive and other system components when planning the finished depth.
Can I use the same slips indoors and outdoors?
Only where the product and complete fixing system are suitable for both applications. A product being suitable for an interior feature wall does not establish exterior or heat-exposure suitability.
Where should I start?
Choose a shortlist from our brick slips and brick tiles, check sample options and confirm the application. If you need help with a particular wall or finish, contact our team with the project details.