Clay Brick Slips

Colour Options

Handformed - Arezzo-nero

Handformed - Autumn Leaves

Handformed - Colorado Flamed

Handformed - Florence Antique

Handformed - Old Millhouse

Handformed - Red Blue Flamed

Handformed - Red Nuance

Handformed - Red Sand Flamed

Handformed - Royal Antique

Handformed - Flame Colour

Montana - Ravenna

Sanded - Dark Red Nuance

Sanded - Leonardo

Sanded - Red Nuance

Smooth - Bordeaux

Smooth - Grenoble

Smooth - Staffordshire Blue

Vintage - Charleroi

Vintage - New York

Vintage - Oslo

Waterstruck - Auckland

Waterstruck - Boston

Weathered - London Buff

Weathered - Old Millhouse

How Does the Cost of Clay Brick Slips Compare to Real Bricks?

Every homeowner or commercial property owner wants their building to have a fresh, distinctive look. That’s one reason so many have opted for Licata clay brick slips. Clay brick slips have myriad advantages over real clay bricks including the fact that they are easier to install than brick and they generally cost less. Below, we will look at the cost of clay brick slips as opposed to the cost of real clay brick and hopefully provide you with the information you need to make a sound, informed choice.

Clay Brick Slip Vs Real Clay Bricks: A Cost Comparison

Determining the price of brick slips vs real clay bricks requires an examination that goes beyond what you paid for them. Stay with us and we will explain.

Factor #1: The cost of materials

Many people don’t look any further than the retail price of brick slips as opposed to real clay bricks when they’re considering the relative costs. This is a mistake. Yes, brick slips tend to be slightly more expensive than real bricks when measured per square foot, but that is only the beginning of the story. In addition, keep in mind that not all brick slips will cost the same per square foot due to the thickness of the brick slips and the manufacturing process involved.

Factor #2: Installation costs

The installation process is typically where the cost of real clay bricks catch up to and exceed the cost of clay brick slips. Real bricks are heavier and require a lot of time and labour to install correctly. Clay brick slips by comparison are relatively light, much thinner than real bricks and are installed in sections, rather than 1 brick at a time. There is very little specialised knowledge required to install clay brick slips. A reasonably talented DIYer should be able to complete the process with little difficulty. That’s another way clay brick slips can save money over real bricks.

Factor #3: The cost of maintenance

Both real bricks and clay brick slips are known for being extremely durable and low maintenance. Both will need to be cleaned occasionally, but with real bricks you also have to keep an eye open for damage to the mortar between the bricks. If holes develop they could lead to water intrusion, and that could lead to very expensive repairs of the exterior walls. There’s none of that with clay brick slips.

The total long-term cost of installing Licata clay brick slips as opposed to real clay bricks typically ends up being considerably lower. Considering you will enjoy pretty much the same benefits from clay brick slips that you will from real brick, it can be difficult to justify the added expense associated with real bricks.

The Bottom Line

The difference in cost between real clay bricks and Licata clay brick slips involves factors beyond the retail cost of the two cladding materials. In addition to costing less over the long-run Licata clay brick slips also provide other advantages including aesthetics, convenience and maintenance requirements. 

Any type of side by side comparison of building material costs is likely to be problematic simply because each material is available in a range of options. We present this cost comparison as a way solely to demonstrate the potential cost-effectiveness of Licata clay brick slips and it should be understood in that fashion.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

The thin nature of clay brick slips leads many to assume that they simply are not as durable as real brick. Not so. Clay brick slips will last for decades with minimal maintenance and will resist wear and tear from the elements like real bricks.

We always recommend our customers do, simply to provide long-term peace of mind. That said, because of their lightweight nature and their easy-to-understand installation instructions it is not unusual for brick slips to be installed by experienced DIYers.

No. The cost of a particular brick slip will depend on various factors including size and finish.

Yes, all our clay brick slips are suitable for both internal and external use. Whether you’re updating fireplaces, feature walls, or full external walls, our range is manufactured to handle it. They’re fully frost resistant, highly durable, and ideal for UK weather conditions.

Our internal brick slips are just as effective indoors, creating a traditional brick look without the weight of real brick. With our full range of brick slips, you can complete any project with style, using reliable materials made to last.

Clay brick slips are made using the same material as genuine clay bricks, which means they are naturally breathable but not fully waterproof. When installed correctly using the right brick slip adhesive and mortar, they help keep external walls protected while allowing trapped moisture to escape.

That balance is what makes them ideal for both internal and external use. Whether it’s for internal brick slips in kitchens or external cladding for your house, the surface stays dry and clean, with minimal upkeep needed.

Real clay bricks are traditionally used as load-bearing materials in construction. Clay brick slips however are not load-bearing, they’re designed for aesthetic cladding rather than structural support. That’s why they’re much lighter and easier to install on existing walls.

When installing brick slips from Licata, you get the look of traditional brickwork without adding bulk or structural load. Our brick slip range is the ideal choice for feature walls, fireplaces, or external finishes that don’t need to carry weight.

Clay brick slips are slim slices of genuine clay bricks, cut specifically for wall cladding. Brick tiles are often ceramic or concrete and may not match the texture or colour of real clay. At Licata, we focus on clay brick slips for their natural finish and reliable performance.

Our slips offer better brick matching for period homes or renovation projects. They’re perfect for those who want the appearance of traditional brickwork with quicker installation and a wide colour range to choose from.

Yes, cut brick slips are used to finish corners, window reveals, and external edges, helping your wall look like it was built from full bricks. Licata supplies corner pieces that match the full range, so you can keep the brickbond pattern consistent.

These are ideal for completing both internal and external walls without compromising on style or detail. Installing brick slips with proper corners makes the finish seamless and adds that authentic touch to any space.