Commons 65 mm – London Brick (Forterra Utility Brick)
Commons 65 mm is part of Forterra’s London Brick line, sold as a utility / common brick rather than a facing brick. It retains the iconic London Brick form but is intended for use in situations where appearance is less critical — such as internal walls, cavities, or where brick matching is needed without full face quality. Because it’s a common brick, there may be variations in texture, colour, and occasional blemishes.
Manufactured to standard dimensions and quality, Commons 65 mm is pressed, frogged (with 14–20 % voids), and comes in a smooth texture finish. Its “standard” London Brick format means it can often be used in extensions or renovation work where matching to existing stock London Bricks is desirable — though with the caveat that common bricks are not guaranteed to match visually as a facing brick would.
While not intended as a decorative façade brick, Commons 65 mm still meets structural standards. It is suitable for use in non-face applications, internal walls, or behind cladding. When its location or project calls for it, it can help reduce cost while maintaining structural continuity.
Key Specifications
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Size:215 × 102.5 × 65 mm
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Colour:(Utility / common stock — may vary)
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Texture:Smooth
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Water Absorption:? 23 %
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Durability:F1 (utility usage, not intended as exposed facing)
Frequently Asked Questions
What’s the difference between a common brick and a facing brick?
A **common brick** is used where appearance is less critical — interior walls, cavities, or backing walls. It may include imperfections, colour variation, or minor flaws. A **facing brick**, by contrast, is intended for visible external walls and is manufactured to higher aesthetic and quality tolerances.
Can Commons 65 mm be used externally if hidden behind cladding or other finishes?
Yes — it can be used in external, non-visible parts of construction (e.g. behind cladding, backing walls). But because it’s not manufactured to face quality, you should not rely on it for exposed façade work without protective covering.
Does the 23 % water absorption make this brick unsuitable for damp environments?
High absorption (? 23 %) is typical for utility bricks. Because Commons 65 mm is often used in non-facing roles, moisture concerns are mitigated by its position behind external layers (render, cladding, cavity walls). Proper design — such as continuous cavities, damp proof courses, and drainage — ensures it performs reliably in context.
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