Whether you are looking to renovate the inside or outside of your home, the first thing that you may think of is cost. Considering the costs of contractor labor, materials, removal of old materials, and other associated renovation expenses can be daunting. This is one compelling reason to opt for a do-it-yourself indoor or outdoor renovation using an adaptable masonry material like thin brick. With self-sufficiency, ease, and affordability as the driving factors of your renovation, then the question becomes: what can I realistically do on my own? Believe it or not, it’s surprisingly easy to change the look of many places in your home with thin brick.

In the living room, dining room, kitchen, or den, you can apply thin brick to a full wall for a more urban, exposed brick look. With the wide range of colors-white, gray, red, cream, and combinations of those colors-that thin brick comes it, you will be able to effortlessly match your furniture and decor. You could also place thin brick around a fireplace to create a more traditional look. Thin brick splash backs are also popular kitchen renovations. You can also line doorways with thin brick or cover entire kitchen island with it for a distinct look.

Outdoors, thin brick is equally useful. Try it as part of garden walls, patios, and as a cover for exposed outdoor surfaces. You could also use it to cover the entire facade of your home (although it is recommended to call a contractor for help with this job, just because it is such a large project).

Wherever you decide to use it, the process for installing thin brick is relatively straightforward. First you need to gather materials. Buy enough thin brick for your entire project. Be sure also to keep the bricks clean, so store them in a clean, dry place until you are ready to use them. You also will need mortar, tools for applying the mortar, and a material (like cement) to help affix the brick to the wall behind it. Clean the surface you will be applying the thin brick to. Then, once the wall surface is dry and clean, you are ready for the brick. Apply the affixing agent to the back of each brick. Place on wall in pattern you desire. Then, once all the bricks are on the wall, and dried into place, fill in the gaps between them with grout. Be sure to wipe the excess grout from between the individual bricks. Check also that the grout is evenly applied; if it is uneven, smooth out and fill in places that need more grout. From there, in a matter of hours, you should have a finished wall, door frame, splash-back, or outdoor surface.

Do-it-yourself thin brick projects are easy, affordable, and will really change the look of your living space. Before starting, however, be sure to thoroughly research your options and materials. Head on down to your local masonry materials store for more information!

Author Bio: Mr. Masonry LOVES to \’DIY\’ and General Shale\’s selection of \’thin brick\’ makes those projects fun and easy.

Category: Home Management
Keywords: thin brick