Tiilin

Tiilin is the Finnish word commonly associated with brick. In Finnish grammar, tiilin is one inflected form of tiili, the noun for brick, and appears in phrases describing bricks and brickwork. Beyond its linguistic usage, tiili refers to a widely used building material known in many languages as brick.

Bricks are ceramic units typically made from fired clay, though some are formed from concrete or other materials. The production process generally involves shaping the raw material, drying it to reduce moisture, and firing at high temperatures in a kiln. This results in a hard, durable unit with good compressive strength and fire resistance. Standard brick dimensions help ensure compatibility in construction, though sizes vary by region and application.

Common brick types include clay bricks, which come in various colors and textures depending on the clay and firing, and concrete bricks, which are made from cement, aggregate, and water. Specialized bricks such as facing bricks (for exterior aesthetics), engineering bricks (higher density and strength), and perforated or hollow bricks (reduced weight and improved insulation) serve different structural and architectural needs.

In construction, bricks are typically laid in mortar to form walls, facades, pavements, and arches. Their thermal mass helps stabilize indoor temperatures, while their durability and fire resistance contribute to long-term safety and maintenance considerations. Brickwork can also influence aesthetics, offering a range of colors, textures, and patterns.

Environmental considerations in brick production focus on energy use, emissions, and the reuse or recycling of bricks where feasible. Standards and quality controls govern brick strength, absorption, and dimensional tolerance to ensure reliable performance in buildings.