When it comes to designing your home, one material has been making waves for all the right reasons is glazed thin brick. This beautiful and timeless element has captured the hearts of homeowners and designers alike – and it’s not hard to see why.
The natural allure of thin brick, coupled with its remarkable resilience, makes it a compelling choice for various areas in your home including kitchen backsplashes, fireplace surrounds, and yes, even shower walls!
In this informative post, I’m diving into the pros and cons of incorporating this stunning material into your home. I’m talking about everything you need to consider, from its price point and durability to its undeniable aesthetic impact. And of course, I’m sharing my thoughts on why brick has become a timeless design element, how it blends perfectly with modern colonial interiors, and why I chose it for our primary bathroom.
Shall we?
The Pros and Cons of Glazed Thin Brick (or “GTB”)
With any handcrafted material, there is bound to be a list of both pros & cons that can sway your decision on material selection. Here are some of the top things to consider before deciding to go with GTB in your home projects:
- Aesthetic Appeal: Glazed thin brick exudes character by adding texture and visual interest to shower walls. Most thin brick carries rich color variations due to its handmade nature, adding to its earthy charm.
- Durability: Thin brick is renowned for its durability and resilience. It can withstand moisture, heat, and daily wear and tear which makes it an ideal choice for areas that are subjected to frequent use.
- Easy Maintenance: Unlike traditional brick, GTB requires minimal maintenance. Its smooth surface is easy to clean and resistant to mold, mildew, and staining.
- Versatility: Thin brick comes in a variety of colors, sizes, and finishes which allows for endless design possibilities. Whether you prefer a classic offset pattern or a traditional herringbone layout, glazed thin brick can be installed in endless ways.
- Cost: Glazed thin brick tends to be more expensive than traditional ceramic or porcelain tiles due to its handmade nature. The cost of materials and installation can add up quickly – especially for larger areas.
- Installation Complexity: Installing glazed thin brick requires specialized skills and tools as well as careful attention to detail. Improper installation can result in uneven surfaces, grout lines, or water penetration issues.
- Weight: While thinner than traditional brick, GTB still adds excessive weight to walls. Proper reinforcement may be necessary to ensure structural integrity and prevent sagging or buckling over time.
What’s The Cost?
When considering glazed thin brick for your home, it is important to factor in both material and installation costs. Prices can vary depending on factors such as brand, quality, size, and color. On average, GTB can range between $10 to $20 per square foot excluding installation. While it may represent a higher upfront investment compared to other materials, its longevity makes it a worthwhile investment in the long run.
As mentioned above, one of the key benefits of glazed thin brick is its exceptional durability and low-maintenance nature. Unlike traditional brick which requires periodic sealing and upkeep, GTB is resistant to water, stains, and scratches. Its smooth surface is easy to clean with a mild detergent and eliminates the need for harsh chemical cleaners. Additionally, it is inherently mold and mildew-resistant which makes it an ideal choice for humid environments such as showers. With proper care and maintenance, GTB can retain its beauty and functionality for years.
(If your thin brick has visible crazing or a contrasting grout, you may want to consider sealing before and after grouting. Always refer to the manufacturers specifications and recommendations for glazed thin brick care before installing.)
Brick in Colonial Design
Brick has long been associated with colonial architecture and serves as a cornerstone of its timeless aesthetic. In modern colonial design, brick continues to offer a sense of tradition and continuity between the past and the present. Its versatility also allows for various installation methods from traditional bricklaying to fresh patterns.
From its humble origins to its resurgence as a design staple, brick has stood the test of time as a classic and organic design element. In the context of shower walls, glazed thin brick adds a ton of depth, texture, and character. When used appropriately, its rustic appeal, tactile qualities, and earthy tones evoke a sense of warmth and authenticity. Whether you use it as a focal point or as a subtle accent, GTB lends a sense of history and heritage to any space.
It’s no wonder I love this material!
In our primary bathroom, incorporating glazed thin brick into the shower really complements the existing architecture of our home. Our 90’s Colonial features a partial brick exterior, so the addition of interior brick elements feels very natural. Opting for a white glazed thin brick also adds a subtle yet impactful and bright touch to the space. Do you see how subtle the sheen is? To die for.
For this design, I opted for the Hoxton White option from Zia Tile. I am already loving how it looks! We’ve just started the process of installing the brick and decided to hire this out instead of attempting it ourselves. We’ve already run into a few issues, so I’m glad we have professionals here to help us out.
Final Thoughts
My goal with the final design for our bathroom is to make it feel like a modern, colonial cottage. I’m really happy with the results so far and think choosing thin brick will prove to be a design choice with both timeless and classic appeal. Whether you’re drawn to its organic charm, versatility, or historical significance, glazed thin brick offers endless possibilities for installation.
For those of you who have incorporated glazed thin brick into your home, what unexpected benefits or challenges have you encountered? Do you like the traditional look of GTB? I’m so excited to have a low maintenance tile in the shower, so I’d love to hear your likes and dislikes on this classic design element!
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