brickfaced

Brickfaced is an architectural term describing a surface treatment in which bricks or brick-like units form the visible exterior of a wall, giving the appearance of solid brickwork. In common usage, brick-faced can refer to either traditional brick masonry in which bricks are load-bearing or to brick veneer applications where an outer brick layer is attached to a structural wall and does not carry all of the building's loads.

Brick-faced is most commonly associated with brick veneer construction, which became popular in many regions during the late 19th and early 20th centuries and remains widely used. Veneer systems use interlocking metal or wood studs, with flashing, moisture barriers, and insulation behind the brick skin; proper installation is essential to prevent moisture intrusion and ice damming.

From an aesthetic perspective, brick-faced surfaces offer variation through brick size, color, and bonding patterns, and can range from traditional running bond to more decorative faces. The term can also apply to facades where the bricks are visually emphasized but the underlying structure is concrete, steel, or timber.

Maintenance considerations include repointing of mortar joints, cleaning, and repainting of any non-brick elements; brick-faced structures generally require less maintenance than painted masonry but may need periodic weatherproofing and tuckpointing.

See also: brick veneer, brick cladding, masonry.