General Description
Modern Day brick is double fired (to over 2100F*) ceramic glazed brick that are available in a variety of sizes, colors, and textures and are designed for residential and architectural uses and may be installed using most industry accepted systems including with pre-cast panels.
*(Custom brick may be produced at other temperatures and with other processes.)
Standard Specifications
This product is selected by the Architect/Designer/Owner from manufacturer’s standard sizes, shapes and glazes; and shall meet the requirements of ANSI 137.1 as Special Purpose Tile; ASTM C1088-12, Grade Exterior, Type TBX, for Physical Properties; and ASTM 1405-12 Class Exterior for Properties of Finish. Most units will meet PCI specifications, but need to be requested as such if required.
Note: Some glazes produced are crazed for decorative effects or to obtain certain color/characteristics and will not meet the crazing requirements of ASTM 1405-12.
Availability
This product is made to order and therefore subject to production limitations and order volume fluctuations. For purposes of specification, a lead time of 4-8 weeks is sufficient in most cases. Check with the factory or your local dealer for verification of delivery.
Color Variation
Most glaze colors vary from brick to brick, some more than others. These variations are intentional, resulting from our particular production methods and our choice of raw materials. When specifying a glaze, always work from a sampling of 3 or more bricks which represent the range of color you can expect on the job.
Crazing
Crazing refers to the hair-line cracks which may occur in the glaze surface of brick after firing and is common in hand crafted tile. Some glazes produced are crazed to achieve certain colors and/or decorative effects. To minimize the possibility of staining we recommend using a penetrating sealer or grout release. Trikeenan recommends testing a small section following the manufacturer's instructions.
Size Variation
Due to shrinkage from wet to fired tile in the manufacturing process, our bricks are subject to size variation. The thickness is 5/8” and can vary, along with other specified dimensions.
Custom Color Development
Specializes in custom color development. Generally, the hue and sheen of a sample submitted can be matched. For a fixed development fee, Trikeenan will conduct a series of glaze tests and make prototype brick for submittal. Custom glazed brick made for a job are surcharged 20%. Typically 2-10 weeks is needed for testing, however, please check with the factory for current development time in our glaze lab.
Installation
Installation methods should conform to the Tile Council of America "Handbook for Ceramic Tile Installation" (current edition). Brick from several different cartons should be mixed to achieve the best overall blend of color. Other systems are available and the manufacturer’s recommendations should be followed.
Grout Space
Recommends a 3/8" grout joint. Smaller grout spacing can be used including "a tight joint"; however, additional tiles will be required to cover a given area. Narrow grout spaces accentuate tile irregularities.
Maintenance
Minimal maintenance is required. Mild soaps should be sufficient for most cleaning. Test any cleaners before general use. (see high fired metallic glazes for special care)
Durability Considerations
Depending on specific site conditions, glazed thin brick are subject to wear over time. To determine the suitability for specific applications, each glaze has been tested and ranked on the MOHS scale and classified according to hardness and recommended use. Light colors and matte glazes are a better choice in heavy use areas rather than dark colors and gloss finished glazes because scratches on the tile surface are less apparent.
High-Fired Metallic Glazes
Metallic glazes with the exception of Washed Quarry, feature metal molecules embedded on the glaze surface for a sensational metal effect. The glazes are non-toxic in both manufacture and usage. The glaze surfaces are sensitive to oxidation and must be protected. Note that Bronze is pre-sealed at the factory. Periodically the sealer must be renewed to protect the metallic quality. These glazes are NOT suitable for areas where abrasion, water and/or strong chemicals are present or exterior applications. Pre-test any sealers or grout releases before general use. Some products will discolor the glaze/metal surface. This company will not be responsible for discoloration to this tile from chemicals or moisture.
