If you’re looking to add some character and texture to your home, then installing brick is the perfect way to do it. Over the years, we’ve completed various brick projects, and I can tell you that thin brick is our go-to choice. Chad, being a mason by trade, is always a joy to watch in action, but don’t worry—I am going to teach you how to install brick, and it is doable for anyone! With the right tools and steps, you can create a stunning brick feature in your home. Here’s how we did it for our latest project, using a cool product called Brickwebb.
What is Brickwebb
Brickwebb is a fantastic product from Old Mill Building Products that makes installing thin brick even easier. The bricks come pre-attached on mesh web sheeting, similar to a tile mosaic. The bricks are spaced out perfectly, which eliminates the need for spacers and allows you to install several bricks at once—a major time saver! You can choose from different colors, brick patterns (standard or herringbone), and they even make Brickwebb corners.
If you’re ready to tackle your own brick project, head over to Old Mill Building Products and use my code: HOWWEDO for 10% off!
Where to Use Thin Brick
Thin brick can be used in so many ways, both indoors and outdoors. We’ve added brick accents to a few spots around our home, and for this particular project, we worked on our family media room. The goal is to create a masculine sporty vibe since this is where a lot of games will be watched. Chad started by framing out the bar area, which will provide extra seating, using 2x4s. He carefully ensured that the structure was level, plumb, and secure before attaching drywall to the frame. When it came to finishing the bar, the decision was straightforward: we chose brick as a design element to pay homage to two of our favorite baseball stadiums, Fenway Park and Wrigley Field, and to match the vibe. The brick color, Boston Mill, was selected to enhance this nostalgic, timeless look.
How to Install Brick in Your Home
Now, let’s get into the step-by-step process we followed to install the Brickwebb sheets in our bar area. Here’s how you can do it, too!
Prep the Surface
If you’re installing thin brick on drywall like we did, there’s very little prep work needed. The Brickwebb can be applied directly onto the drywall, so you can jump straight into the fun part!
Apply the Adhesive
We used standard tile mastic, which comes premixed in a bucket, for our adhesive. Spread the mastic using a notched trowel, just like you would when installing tile. Make sure the mastic is evenly spread, then press your first Brickwebb sheet firmly into place.
The mesh web allows the mastic to seep in, providing a secure hold. We were worried about slippage since we were placing several bricks at once, but surprisingly, everything stayed in place! Continue adding more sheets until your space is filled.
Cutting and Fitting
If you need to cut a Brickwebb sheet to fit in a smaller space, it’s easy to do with scissors or a utility knife. For individual bricks or more precise cuts, you can use a tile saw or grinder.
Since we were working around a bar with corners and support columns, we used Brickwebb corners to get those clean edges and then filled in any gaps with single bricks. It’s easy to pop individual bricks off the sheet if needed.
Allow the Adhesive to Set
Before you move on to grouting, let the adhesive dry for at least 24 hours to ensure everything is securely in place.
Grouting the Bricks
For grout, you can either use a Type S mortar or a sanded tile grout if you want a specific color. We went with the standard gray Type S mortar for this project. Mix the mortar until it reaches the consistency of peanut butter or frosting.
Using a grout bag (like frosting a cake), apply the grout into the brick joints. Once the grout starts to harden a bit, use a jointer and tuck pointer to smooth it out and press it into the joints. You can make the grout lines as neat or as imperfect as you prefer, depending on the look you’re going for. Finally, brush off any excess grout using an old paintbrush or another soft brush.
That’s it! Installing brick is easier than it seems and the result is always worth it. Whether you’re creating a rustic accent wall or adding a touch of vintage charm to your kitchen or family room, thin brick is a beautiful and versatile option. If you want more detailed instructions, check out my full tutorial on installing thin brick.
Now it’s your turn to add that timeless charm of brick to your home! Don’t forget to use code HOWWEDO for 10% off your Brickwebb order from Old Mill Building Products!
Stay tuned to see the rest of this media room come to life!
