🧱 Maxi Bricks vs Imperial Bricks: Which One Builds Smarter?

When planning a residential build, choosing the right brick type can make a significant difference—not just in aesthetics, but in cost, speed, and structural performance. Two popular options in South Africa are Maxi bricks and Imperial bricks. Let’s break down how they compare.

📐 Size & Usage

Brick Type	Dimensions (mm)	Bricks per m²	Wall Type
Maxi Brick	±222 x 90 x 114	~35	Single skin
Imperial Brick	±222 x 106 x 73	~52	Single skin

• Maxi bricks are larger, meaning fewer bricks are needed per square meter.

• Imperial bricks are smaller and require more mortar joints, increasing labor and material use.

💰 Cost Comparison (2025 Estimates)

Item	Maxi Brick	Imperial Brick
Price per brick	R3.39	R2.80–R3.50
Bricks per m²	35	52
Material cost per m²	R118.65	R145.60 (at R2.80)
Mortar joints per m²	35	52
Labor time per m²	Faster	Slower

Maxi bricks offer savings of up to R30–R40 per m² in material and labor costs, thanks to fewer joints and faster laying speed4.

🏗️ Construction Efficiency

• Speed: Maxi bricks cover more wall area per unit, reducing build time by up to 30%.

• Mortar Use: Fewer joints mean less mortar—up to 40% savings on mix.

• Handling: Despite being larger, Maxi bricks are easier to handle due to their lighter mass per m².

🌡️ Performance & Suitability

Feature	Maxi Brick	Imperial Brick
Thermal Mass	Higher	Moderate
Water Absorption	Lower (clay maxis)	Variable
Structural Strength	Suitable for single-storey	Suitable for multi-storey
Aesthetic Flexibility	Limited (bag-wash or paint)	High (face brick options)

Maxi bricks are ideal for low-cost housing, single-storey builds, and fast-track projects, while Imperial bricks offer more flexibility for multi-storey and aesthetic-driven designs.

🧠 Final Thoughts

If your priority is cost-efficiency, speed, and structural simplicity, Maxi bricks are a smart choice. For builds requiring aesthetic finishes, complex detailing, or multi-level strength, Imperial bricks still hold their ground.