Brick Slip Adhesive

Choose a specially formulated brick slip adhesive for internal and external applications. Our adhesives and base coats include cement based options for porous surfaces and high-performance systems for challenging substrates, helping you fix brick slips securely and achieve a consistent finish.

Brick slip adhesive for external and internal applications

Whether you are installing slips on brick and block work outside or decorating a feature wall indoors, the right choice depends on wall material, exposure, and the slip type. For façades and external wall installation systems, select frost resistant products with extended workability; for interiors, pick a mix that provides the right consistency and open time for your method.

What is brick slip adhesive?

It is a bonding material—typically a cement based adhesive modified with a redispersible powder polymer and graded fillers—that is designed for fixing brick slips. Mixed with clean water to a smooth paste, it is applied to the substrate (and often the back of the slip) to ensure full contact, consistent coverage, and durable adhesion on both internal and external walls.

Types of brick slip adhesives

• Cement based mixes for porous surfaces such as masonry and block work. They offer extended workability, good initial grab, and are ideal for most façade applications.
• Flexible cladding adhesive variants for areas subject to movement or vibration, providing low-temperature curing and high bond strength.
• Epoxy based adhesives for non porous surfaces (for example, existing tiles, metal trims, or glass). These are high-performance but can be more expensive; use where a cementitious product is not suitable.

Slip adhesive for porous surfaces

On brickwork, block work, and other mineral substrates, a polymer-modified cement based adhesive is usually ideal. Prime if specified, then apply with a notched trowel and “butter” the back of the slip where required to fill peaks and voids. Ensure joints are uniform and excess is cleaned before the material has cured.

Slip adhesive for non porous surfaces

Where the surface is non absorbent (for example, painted masonry, metals, or existing ceramic tiles), use epoxy based adhesives or a system approved for such substrates. Always confirm compatibility with the product data and carry out a small test area before full application.

Brick slip adhesive vs tile adhesive

A quality tile adhesive may work for some installations, but brick slip adhesives are formulated for the weight, thickness, and joint pattern of slips. For façades and external details, choose frost resistant mixes designed for internal and external use and follow the manufacturer’s coverage figures.

Applications of brick slip adhesive

Use for garden walls, entrances, offices, and living spaces; on fireplaces (check heat ratings), and for reveals and returns. It is also suitable for natural stone slips where the adhesive colour matters—white-tone mixes can help avoid shadowing.

What adhesive do I use for brick slips?

For classic masonry substrates, pick a cement based, polymer-modified product. For challenging substrates or non porous surfaces, consider an epoxy based adhesive. If in doubt, read the product page, note the recommended mix ratio, and choose according to location and exposure.

Can you fix brick slips with grab adhesive?

Grab products are not generally recommended for external façades or high-load areas. They may be used in small decorative areas indoors, but a purpose-made slip adhesive or cement based adhesive will provide more reliable results over time.

Installation and techniques

Plan the installation layout and set out level guides. Mix to the right consistency (no lumps), then apply evenly. Press each brick slip firmly to bed and keep joints straight. Clean faces before the adhesive has dried. After the material has cured, apply mortar per the system’s instructions.

How to fit brick slips externally?

1. Assess the wall material and prepare the substrate (clean, sound, and dry).
2. Prime if specified for the chosen system.
3. Apply a cement based or flexible cladding adhesive with the correct notch size.
4. Stick brick slips in staggered courses, maintaining the planned bond pattern.
5. Allow to cure, then point with suitable mortar and clean down.

Can you do brick slips yourself?

Yes—DIY is feasible with careful planning and attention to the application stage. Order a small quantity first to practise, and work in manageable areas so the product does not skin over too quickly.

Brick slip samples

Before installing brick slips, order samples to confirm the look on your wall. Browse our samples range to review colour and texture in natural light.

Shop brick slip adhesive for porous and non porous surfaces online

Explore our adhesives and related reinforcement mesh. Product pages show coverage, working time, and delivery options, with prices listed ex VAT and inc VAT (VAT added at checkout). Add items to your basket, enter your postcode to view delivery, and our team can recommend the ideal product if your project needs a specific mixture or open time.