The process involved in the manufacturing of bricks are preparation of clay, moulding, drying of bricks and burning f bricks. Each of the above processes are described in detail.

The various defects that can be seen in clay bricks like Overburning, Underburning, Bloating, Black Core, Efflorescence, Chuffs, Checks or Cracks, Spots, Blisters, Spalling, Lamination and Lime Blowing are elaborated briefly.

Tests that are to be carried out before using as per Indian Standards are explained briefly. – Dimension Test, Compressive Strength Test, Water Absorption Test, Efflorescence Test and Field Tests

Clay bricks are classified based on manufacturing process, using location, use, weather resisting capability, shape and raw materials used. Each of the different types of bricks are discussed briefly.

The composition of brick earth must be such that the earth used for making brick must not shrink on drying. The major ingredients for a good brick earth are silica, alumina, lime, magnesia, iron oxide and alkalis. The presence of ingredients like iron pyrite, organic matter, sulphur, etc., are considered to be harmful for brick earth.

The characteristics on which a brick can be considered as good are Size,
Shape, Color, Texture, Compactness, Compressive strength, Hardness, Soundness, Toughness, Water absorption, Expansion, Extent of burning during manufacturing, Thermal conductivity, Efflorescence, and Good brick earth which are explained in detail.