Had the first visit today with a potential client … a criminal defense attorney. She wants to fix up her 1920’s house, primarily the kitchen, but she also wants to add a half bath. Could be fun.
As part of the kitchen remodel, she thinks she wants a brick floor. The existing floor is oak … I think it is … the kitchen is covered in cheap vinyl squares now. The previous owners did a real hack job when they tried to improve it. I have seen thin brick pavers, like 1/2″ thick. I assume they would be installed like ceramic tile. Looking for comments and cheap advice.
Whenever you are asked if you can do a job, tell’em “Certainly, I can!” Then get busy and find out how to do it. T. Roosevelt
Replies
I've seen the ½" thick brick pavers in stores. They are real brick and look realistic to me. Like you, I imagine they install like tile, but I don't really know.
Being rectangular, they have a certain intended joint width, which limits the patterns you can create. So long as you're happy with one of the patterns that work, you're fine.
Since the brick is porous, you have to apply a sealer before grouting so the grout cleans off easier, and then seal again after grouting for double protection. Tec makes some really good sealers.
I think the roughness of brick would make even sweeping the floor difficult, but that's for your client to judge. Obviously she's aware of that and doesn't mind.
All the usual considerations about floor stiffness and subfloor preparation would apply to brick as to tile.
you'll be back changing that out...
Soak the brick in sealer 1st and drip dry..
nice looking floor sorta.. but the ultimate PITA to clean and maintain...
Life is not a journey to the grave with the intention of arriving safely in a pretty and well preserved body, but rather to skid in broadside, thoroughly used up, totally worn out, and loudly proclaiming
WOW!!! What a Ride!
Well, since neither a mop nor a broom seem to fit my hand, I'm not worried.
What would happen if it was sealed with a polyurethane? Would that make it easier to clean?
Whenever you are asked if you can do a job, tell'em "Certainly, I can!" Then get busy and find out how to do it. T. Roosevelt
yup....
did one with road bricks... didn't last 6 months...
i think the glass of juice ppushed it over the edge.....
Life is not a journey to the grave with the intention of arriving safely in a pretty and well preserved body, but rather to skid in broadside, thoroughly used up, totally worn out, and loudly proclaiming
WOW!!! What a Ride!