What are the different types of bricks used in Quebec?

Several types of bricks are used in construction in Quebec:

Brick types:

• Clay brick: The most common for façades. Standard dimensions: 57 × 90 × 190 mm (3 ⅝ × 2 ¼ × 8 in). Compressive strength: 20-40 MPa. Cost: $0.50 to $1.50/unit
• Face brick: Smooth or textured finish, various colors (red, beige, brown, gray). Used for aesthetic appearance of exterior walls
• Engineering brick: High compressive strength (40-70 MPa), low water absorption (less than 7%). Used for foundations and retaining walls
• Fire brick: Withstands temperatures of 1,000-1,700 °C. Used for fireplaces, chimneys, furnaces, and outdoor barbecues
• Concrete block (CMU): Dimensions: 200 × 200 × 400 mm. Used for foundation walls, interior load-bearing walls, retaining walls. Cost: $1.50 to $3/block

Standards: Bricks must comply with CSA A82 (clay bricks) or CSA A165 (concrete blocks).