Thin brick, or brick veneer, gives the charm and strength of regular brick. The terms thin brick and brick veneer are often used interchangeably, as both provide the look of traditional brick while being lightweight and versatile for various applications. Thin brick can be used for homes or businesses. It works well on interior walls or outside facades. This material helps architects, designers, and homeowners add warmth and beauty to any space.
 
What is Thin Brick/Brick Veneer?
Thin brick is a lightweight alternative to full-size brick, typically ½ inch to 1 inch thick, making it easier to install without the structural reinforcements required for traditional brick walls. Unlike synthetic or faux brick panels, Glen-Gery thin brick is real clay brick, cut from full-sized bricks or manufactured to a slimmer profile while maintaining the same textures, colors, and variations found in standard full-depth brick.
 
Benefits of Thin Brick Veneer
1. Lightweight & Easy to Install
Thin brick is different from full-depth brick. Full-depth brick needs a foundation and strong support. In contrast, thin brick can be applied directly to many surfaces. These surfaces include drywall, cement board, and other types of masonry. This makes DIY installation quicker, less labor-intensive, and more cost-effective. View Glen-Gery’s DIY Thin Brick veneer installation guide for adhesive applications. (*Note there are many other installation techniques/methods, see below)
 
2. Versatile Applications
Thin brick can be used in virtually any space—indoors or outdoors. Some common applications include:
•    Interior accent walls – Add warmth and texture to living rooms, kitchens, and office spaces.
•    Fireplaces – Create a classic brick hearth without major renovations.
•    Exterior facades – Give homes or commercial buildings a timeless brick exterior without the added weight.
•    Commercial spaces – Enhance storefronts, restaurants, and hotels with an inviting, rustic appeal.
 
3. Wide Range of Colors & Textures
Thin brick veneer comes in many colors, sizes, and textures. It can fit any design style, from modern sleek finishes to reclaimed, weathered looks. You can choose from a modern gray, a classic red, or a rustic style. There is a thin brick option to match your vision.
 
4. Cost-Effective Alternative to Full Brick
Thin brick uses less material, lowers labor costs, and removes the need for extra structural support. This makes it a more budget-friendly choice. 
 
5. Durability & Low Maintenance
Brick has long been valued for its strength and resilience, and thin brick is no exception. Thin brick keeps its color and texture over time. Unlike painted walls, it does not chip or fade. It also needs minimal maintenance.
 
6. Sustainable & Eco-Friendly
By using thin brick, less raw material is needed compared to full-size bricks, reducing environmental impact. Additionally, many Glen-Gery thin brick products incorporate recycled content, making them a sustainable choice for modern construction.
 
Explore Glen-Gery’s Thin Brick Veneer Collection
At Glen-Gery, we offer a wide selection of premium thin brick options, ensuring you get the perfect look for your next project. Explore our thin brick collection and bring the enduring charm of brick to any space.
 
Ready to transform your space with brick? Contact us today!
 
Other Brick Veneer Installation Methods: 

ADHESIVE This method is often used for interior applications or on substrates where traditional mortar might not be suitable.  
 
THICKSET (LATH + SCRATCH) Involves a thick mortar bed, ideal for uneven surfaces or when additional leveling is needed, often used in interior or limited height exterior installations. 
 
THINSET (MODIFIED MORTAR + CEMENT BOARD) Utilizes a thin layer of adhesive mortar with improved characteristics, suitable for flat and even substrates, commonly used in commercial or multi-story installations. 
 
SUPPORT SYSTEM BY GLEN-GERY: THIN TECH® AND TRU BRIX® Panel are Pre-engineered metal support solutions that can speed up installation, enhance performance and ensure uniformity. 
 
EMBEDDED: PRECAST AND TILT-UP These are factory-made or site-poured panels with thin bricks embedded in concrete.

White brick has become a design must-have in both residential and commercial architecture, offering a crisp, clean aesthetic that works across styles—from modern farmhouse to industrial lofts. Whether you’re designing a new build or updating an existing space, white brick provides timeless elegance, durability, and versatility.
 
In this guide, we’ll explore the benefits of white brick, popular design trends, and how to achieve the perfect look—plus, we’ll highlight Glen-Gery’s top white brick options for your next project.

Why Choose White Brick?
White brick isn’t just about aesthetics—it’s a practical, long-lasting choice. Here’s why:

Timeless & Versatile: White brick works with virtually any style—whether you’re aiming for a sleek contemporary feel, a classic colonial look, or a rustic farmhouse vibe. It complements wood, glass, and metal beautifully.
 
Brightens Space: White brick reflects natural light, making spaces appear larger and more inviting. It’s a great way to add airiness and warmth to interiors and exteriors alike.
 
Durable & Low-Maintenance: Unlike painted surfaces that require frequent touch-ups, white brick is naturally resistant to fading, chipping, and harsh weather. Plus, occasional cleaning is all it takes to keep it looking pristine.
 
Energy Efficient: Brick’s natural thermal properties help regulate indoor temperatures, keeping homes cooler in summer and warmer in winter, which can reduce energy costs over time.

White Brick Trends in 2025:

How to Achieve the Perfect White Brick Look

There are multiple ways to bring white brick into your design:
1. Choose manufactured White Brick
Opting for a manufactured white brick means achieving your chosen color aesthetic instant without painting. 
2. Consider Painting Brick (If Using Existing Brickwork)
Painting red brick white can create a fresh, modern look, but it requires more maintenance over time, as paint can chip and peel. If you choose to paint, be sure you are satisfied with the texture of your brick, as that will remain even when painted. 
3. Explore Whitewashing & Limewashing
Both techniques allow some of the brick’s original color and texture to show through. Limewashing, in particular, provides a breathable, natural finish that ages beautifully.
4. Pair with the Right Accents
For Modern Designs, use black metal fixtures, clean lines, and minimalist landscaping. For Rustic Styles, complement white brick with wood beams, stone pathways, and warm-toned shutters.

Maintaining White Brick: Tips for Long-Lasting Beauty

While white brick is naturally low-maintenance, here’s how to keep it looking fresh:
✅ Occasional Cleaning – Use water and mild soap to remove dust and dirt buildup. Avoid harsh chemicals. 

✅ Sealing (Optional) – A breathable sealant can help protect against stains in high-traffic or high-pollution areas.

✅ Spot Cleaning – A soft brush with a water-vinegar mix can remove minor stains without damaging the brick. We recommend reviewing your Glen-Gery brick’s cleaning document for more specific cleaning instructions. 

Bring White Brick to Your Next Project
Whether you’re planning a stunning white brick exterior, a cozy interior feature wall, or a modern industrial space, Glen-Gery’s premium white brick options offer unmatched quality and design flexibility.
🔎 Ready to get started? Contact us today to talk to an expert. 
 

The Timeless Appeal of Brick, Reinvented
Brick has long been cherished for its durability, warmth, and classic charm. From historic structures to contemporary designs, brick's aesthetic remains a favorite for homeowners and architects alike. Thanks to advancements in building materials such as thin brick veneer wall systems, achieving this timeless look has become easier, faster, and more versatile than ever. Thin Brick panel systems combine the beauty of traditional brick with the ease of modern installation, making them an attractive option for a variety of applications, from residential projects to large-scale architectural endeavors.

What Are Thin Brick Veneer Panels?
Thin brick veneer panels are lightweight systems designed to provide solutions and options to architects and builders. These panels allow thin brick to be mounted on specialized backing systems, offering a cost-effective and flexible alternative to conventional masonry.

Advantages of Thin Brick Veneer Panels
1. Versatile Applications
Thin brick veneer panels are suitable for both interior and exterior use. They can transform walls, fireplaces, and even commercial facades.
2. Lightweight and Easy to Install
Thanks to their reduced weight, thin brick veneer panels eliminate the need for heavy masonry support, making them a popular option for retrofits and a variety of installation techniques.
3. Durability and Authenticity
Modern thin brick systems are crafted to maintain the durability and appearance of traditional brick. With advanced systems like Glen-Gery’s Thin Tech® Wall System or Tru-Brix, users can enjoy long-lasting, visually stunning results.
4. Cost-Effective Solution
Thin brick veneer panels reduce material and labor costs while offering the premium appearance of real thin brick. They are an excellent choice for budget-conscious homeowners and large-scale projects alike.

Installation Made Simple
The installation process for thin brick veneer panel systems is designed to be efficient and user-friendly. For builders, it translates to faster completion times and reduced labor costs.
 
Installation will vary slightly based on the system you employ. That said, we’ve provided a brief overview of the installation process below to give you an idea of what’s involved:
1. Surface Preparation: Ensure the wall or surface is clean, stable, and capable of supporting the panel system.
2. Mounting the Panel System: Attach the mechanical support system (like Thin Tech® or Tru-Brix) to the surface. These systems are pre-engineered for easy alignment and secure installation.
3. Setting the Thin Bricks: Thin bricks are snapped or mechanically locked into the system. 
4. Finishing Touches: Add mortar between bricks, ensuring a seamless, traditional look.
Many systems come with detailed guides. For a more comprehensive understanding of installation, check out Glen-Gery’s Thin Tech Installation Manual or watch the Thin Tech Installation video.

Applications for Thin Brick Veneer Panels
For Homeowners
Thin brick veneer panels are perfect for DIY’ers looking to refresh their homes. Some common home projects include creating stylish brick accent walls and adding charm to kitchen backsplashes or fireplaces.
For Architects and Builders
These panels expand the design palette for architects, offering a lightweight alternative to traditional brick laying without compromising on style or performance. From commercial facades to multi-family housing, thin brick veneer panels are redefining modern masonry.

Conclusion: Why Choose Thin Brick Veneer Panels?
Thin brick veneer panels provide the perfect balance of aesthetics, durability, and practicality. Whether you’re embarking on a home improvement project or an architect seeking innovative design solutions, these panels offer endless possibilities. Glen-Gery’s Thin Tech® and Tru-Brix systems represent the pinnacle of thin brick technology, blending style with functionality to meet diverse needs. Explore the full range of Glen-Gery’s Advance Cladding Systems to bring your vision to life and experience the timeless beauty of brick, reimagined for modern applications.

When it comes to selecting the exterior material for your home, one of the pivotal decisions you'll face is choosing your exterior façade, the “face” of your home. Year after year, building with brick remains a classic choice for many reasons. Let’s explore why building with brick is most ideal through 7 key factors to consider.

1. Durability and Longevity: Brick is renowned for its unparalleled durability. Unlike vinyl siding, which can be prone to damage from harsh weather conditions, impact, and even pests, brick can withstand the test of time. A well-constructed brick home can last for generations, requiring minimal maintenance over the years. This longevity not only saves you money on repairs and replacements but also adds significant value to your property.

2. Aesthetic Appeal: One of the most compelling reasons to choose brick is its timeless beauty. A brick home never goes out of style. The warm, natural earthy tones of brick complement a wide range of architectural styles, from rustic or traditional to modern. Glen-Gery brick is also available in sleek, modern styles with glazed and Klaycoat finishes, which allow the homeowner to choose a custom color. Unlike vinyl siding, which can fade, warp, or discolor over time, brick maintains its original appearance for decades, ensuring your home always looks stunning.

3. Energy Efficiency: Clay brick is an excellent insulator, helping to regulate indoor temperatures more effectively than vinyl siding. The thermal mass property of brick allows it to absorb and store heat during the day and release it slowly at night, reducing your reliance on heating and cooling systems. This translates to lower energy bills and a more comfortable living environment year-round.

4. Low Maintenance: While vinyl siding is often marketed as low maintenance, it is not maintenance-free. Over time, it can accumulate dirt, algae, and mold, requiring regular cleaning and sometimes even replacement due to damage. Brick, on the other hand, requires minimal maintenance as there's no need to worry about fading or warping.

5. Fire Resistance: Brick is a non-combustible material, offering superior fire resistance compared to vinyl siding, which can melt and ignite in the presence of extreme heat. Building your home with brick provides an added layer of safety and peace of mind.

6. Eco-Friendly Choice: Brick is an environmentally friendly choice for your home's exterior. It is made from natural clay and requires minimal processing compared to the energy-intensive manufacturing of vinyl siding. Brick also has a long-life cycle, reducing the need for replacements, which can contribute to landfill waste.

7. Increased Property Value: Brick homes often have a higher resale value compared to vinyl-sided homes. The timeless appeal, durability, and energy efficiency of brick make it an attractive option for homebuyers, which can translate into a better return on your investment when it's time to sell.

In conclusion, while vinyl siding has its merits, building your home with brick offers a myriad of benefits that make it the more ideal choice for many homeowners. Its energy efficiency, low maintenance requirements, fire resistance, eco-friendliness, and potential for increased property value make it a wise investment that will stand the test of time. So, if you're looking to build a home that combines elegance, longevity, and functionality, brick is the way to go.

Design and Color Trends for 2023

Today, builders and architects are finishing 2022 projects and predicting what’s to come in this new year ahead. What are the colors, textures, and finishes that will stay popular? What will we leave behind in 2023? And perhaps most anticipated, Glen-Gery's debut of their inaugural brick color of the year.

In 2022 we saw calming, nature-inspired tones. Serene shades of blue and green were consistently top color choices. While these soothing tones are expected to stay popular in 2023, warmer, richer colors with earthy undertones will take center stage. In fact, home design experts predict homeowners will become bolder and more creative in their color choices throughout the coming year, even opting for shades of pink and blush.

Design Colors to Expect in 2023

2023 promises to be a year of earth tones and warm neutrals with pops of pink and blush colors. The year ahead may also bring a surprise resurgence of pastel colors in elements like furniture and design accents.

Textures and Finishes to Expect in 2023

If there’s one thing architects and designers are sure of, it’s that 2023 will be all about texture. When a home’s exterior has a monochromatic color scheme, mixing home-building materials like stone or brick can create definition. Mixed-material exteriors add character and interest to a home’s outward appearance.

The use of texture inside of the house is expected to continue trending as well. With remote and hybrid work environments, homeowners spend more time at home. The use of texture can help separate indoor spaces. Mixing textures becomes an important element to add depth and interest to open rooms, and define an alcove or nook.

What Trends Have Phased Out?

Home design trends we expect to see less of in the coming year include faux finishes, stark whites and grays, and, in commercial design, smooth textures. Moving forward, homeowners are looking for authentic and realistic materials to add warmth with hygge-inspired colors that evoke a cozy and comfortable feel.

Conclusion

Home design trends for 2023 can be summed up in three words: texture, warmth, and coziness. While warm neutrals and earth tones lead the color palette, adding definition and visual interest with textured finishes will increase in popularity. For both interior and exterior finishes, brick and stone surfaces offer the best option for adding depth and dimension because of their ability to integrate light and shadows, creating variations in textual elements.

View more in the 2023 Style Guide.

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