Guide

How to install a decorative brick wall

Want to give your kitchen, living room or bedroom a different look, but don't want to embark on a never-ending whirlwind of costly renovations? There's no need to put your bank account or your marriage to the test: opt instead for an interior brick wall that will completely transform your room!

Characteristics of a brick wall

Very fashionable, the panels of false brick or cladding plates are a nice alternative to the installation of small individual bricks, which require much more patience and skill.

These "sheets" of brick are easy to install and are only about 2 cm thick.
They have the same look and properties as solid bricks: insulating, very durable and fire resistant.
They can be installed like tiles.
They are ideal for a large wall that you find empty or a little cold, and they go well with many types of decor.
You can also install it on a sectional wall to completely change the look of the room.
Different shades are compatible with a conventional red brick wall: grays, yellows, whites, beiges, mauves or pinks.
All types of flooring look good with brick, as does furniture: wood, metal, glass, leather, etc.
When it comes to filling the joints, again, you have the option of playing with colors. There's more than just gray and white!

Be bold and daring! In fact, nothing prevents you from painting your brick wall the color of your choice. You will have a unique and personalized decor. Also consider faded or blackened effects, or a mix of colors for an original look.

On what type of wall should decorative brick be installed?

It is possible to install your own brick wall on a solid surface covered with concrete, wood, plaster, cement or wainscoting, provided that it can support 40 kg/m². On wallpaper, however, there is no shortcut, it must be removed or it will not stick. Painted walls need to be scraped or sanded so that the bricks hold, or you need to apply an undercoat (primer). The surface must be smooth, clean and dry before you begin.

What to do before installing the bricks?

Remove electrical outlets and switches and replace them at the brick level.
Determine the highest point of the floor, the one from which the first row must be installed.
Divide the wall into sections and draw the lines for the flooring. Simplex tool: laser level
Mix the cement-glue in a large bucket, ideally outside to limit damage. Simplex tool: electric drill with long agitator (rented separately).

For work at height, rent rolling scaffolds or scaffold frames.

How do you install an interior brick wall?

Spread 1/4" thick thin-set mortar on a section of wall 10 to 12 sq. ft. at a time, or on an area that can be covered with brick within 20 minutes. Wear latex gloves (it is not necessary to coat the back of the brick). Tool: square notched trowel
Apply the bricks from the bottom up and check the level frequently. Start with the corners if there are any (see image below). The entire surface of the brick must be in contact with the adhesive.
Cut the bricks at the desired angles. Wear a mask, goggles and ear muffs. Tip: To keep the cut bricks looking good, cut into the corners. Simplex tool: tile or paver saw
Wait 24 hours before applying the mortar (or according to the manufacturer's instructions).
Remove excess cement glue with a wire brush.

Variation: Depending on the style desired, apply a semi-gloss finish on the bricks or a matte sealer to prevent the bricks from absorbing the mortar. Wait 24 hours before applying the mortar.

How to apply mortar between decorative bricks?

Make the mortar mix of the desired color. The mortar should not be too liquid, but firm enough not to run. *Note the proportions of powder and water to ensure the same consistency. Tool: mortar bag or pouch
Apply the mortar into the joints with varying levels of pressure to obtain a flowing, solid or hollow appearance. Squeeze the bag of mortar while rotating for more uniformity.
For a different look, lightly press a finger (with latex gloves) into the joint to finish. Otherwise, wait until the mortar has set and press it in with a joint iron or the wooden handle of a paintbrush. Tip: If the brick is stained, clean it gently with a sponge soaked in water. For a more rustic, less smooth look, remove excess mortar with a stiff brush before it dries completely.

For an existing brick wall

If you want to freshen up a brick wall in your kitchen, living room, bathroom or bedroom, Simplex does steam cleaner rentals. You can then leave it as is, apply a finish or repaint it completely.

Variation: You can use a mortar with sand, which you will spread on the brick with a sponge as you apply it. You will need to rinse the coating 4-5 times afterwards, which will bring out the color. Follow the manufacturer's instructions.