Cavity brick, also known as full brick or cavity brickwork, refers to a type of wall construction that consists of two separate brick walls (an exterior and an interior wall) built parallel to each other, with a gap (the cavity) in between. This cavity is typically around 50mm wide.
Here's a breakdown:
- Double Wall Construction: The key characteristic is the presence of two distinct brick walls.
- Cavity: The space or gap separating the two walls is crucial for its benefits.
- Materials: Both walls are constructed entirely of bricks.
Benefits of Cavity Brick:
- Improved Insulation: The air gap acts as an insulator, helping to regulate temperature inside the building and reduce energy consumption.
- Moisture Control: The cavity helps prevent moisture from penetrating the interior wall, reducing the risk of dampness and mold growth. Moisture that permeates the external brick wall can drain harmlessly down the cavity.
- Sound Insulation: The cavity provides a barrier to sound transmission, reducing noise levels from outside.
How it Works:
The cavity disrupts the flow of heat, cold, and moisture. The air in the cavity is a poor conductor of heat, reducing heat transfer. Any moisture that penetrates the outer wall is prevented from reaching the inner wall, as it can drain down the cavity to the outside through weep holes at the base of the wall.
In summary, cavity brick construction provides enhanced insulation, moisture control, and soundproofing compared to single-brick wall construction.
