How to Install Interior Brick Veneer

Install brick veneer on an interior wall.

You can add depth, dimension and warmth to any wall in your home by installing brick veneer. Brick veneer is simply a brick that has been sliced to about a third of its original thickness. The thinner brick is lighter, making it preferable for wall applications. The lighter weight of the brick keeps it from slipping from the wall the way full bricks would. A little planning and some careful application will give you professional-looking results.

Things You'll Need

• Brick tiles
• Thin-set adhesive
• Notch trowel
• Wet tile saw
• Sanded tile grout
• Sponge
• Bucket

Instructions

1. Measure 2 and 7/8 inches from the floor and mark a line for the first row of brick with a piece of chalk. This measurement will accommodate the brick and 3/8-inch grout. Mark a line every fourth row to help keep you on track during installation.

2. Spread thin-set adhesive to a 4-foot section of the wall with a notch trowel. Working in smaller sections keeps the thin-set from drying too quickly. Use a thin-set with a slightly thicker texture to keep the tiles from slipping.

3. Place the brick veneer tiles in the thin-set. Insert a 3/8-inch spacer between tiles. Set the entire first row of brick veneer. Offset the second row so that the midpoint of the first brick is lined up with a spacer in the row above. Continue in this manner across the wall, placing all whole bricks.

4. Trim edge pieces with a tile cutter. Choose a manual tile cutter or a wet saw.

5. Spread thin-set directly to the back of the cut bricks. Place the bricks on the wall and press firmly into place. Allow the adhesive to dry overnight.

6. Grout the brick veneer tiles. Use sanded grout to most closely resemble brick mortar. Scoop up grout with a pointed trowel and work the grout between the bricks. Spread grout with a grout float to smooth the grout and eliminate air pockets.

7. Wipe the brick veneer clean with a wet sponge. Clean up all residue. Rinse the sponge and water often. Allow the grout to dry completely.

References

• Brickit.com: Brick Types
• Brick Salvage: Install