Question 1

1. How do I know if I need air bricks for my project?

Accepted Answer

Determining whether you require air bricks depends on the type of construction and the specific ventilation needs of your property. Typically, the necessity for air bricks will be outlined in the building’s construction drawings or architectural plans, which specify their placement, quantity, and purpose to ensure proper airflow and moisture control. In residential and commercial projects, air bricks are essential in areas prone to moisture build-up, such as underneath flooring, in cavity walls, or near external wall openings. Consulting with a structural engineer or builder can help identify critical locations for ventilation and ensure compliance with building regulations, ultimately safeguarding your property against dampness, mould, and structural deterioration.

Question 2

2. Where can I find the UK building regulations for air bricks?

Accepted Answer

The relevant air brick regulations for underfloor ventilation depends where you’re building: 

If your project is in England, you can find details in Building Regulations, Approved Document C.
There’s a different version of this document for projects in Wales: Building Regulations, Approved Document C (Wales).
For projects in Scotland, consult the Building regulations handbooks linked here. Note: there are new technical handbook documents from January 2025.
You can also consult the NHBC standards.

Question 3

3. Are plastic air bricks as effective as clay ones?

Accepted Answer

Yes, modern plastic air bricks are highly effective at providing reliable ventilation, comparable to traditional clay variants. They are engineered to resist corrosion, weathering, and UV exposure, making them ideal for contemporary buildings where durability and low-maintenance are essential. Plastic air bricks are also lightweight and easy to install, offering flexible solutions for various applications including external walls, cavity walls, and ventilation in damp-prone areas. With advances in design and material quality, plastic air bricks now meet industry standards, ensuring excellent airflow and moisture control for both residential and commercial properties.

Air bricks and brickwork ventilation

Hepworth Terracotta Airbrick Square Hole Red 215mm X 140mm

9'' X 3'' Plastic Air Brick Buff

Hepworth Square Hole Airbrick 215 X 215mm Red

Redbank Clay Square Hole Air Brick 215mm x 65mm Buff

Redbank Clay Square Hole Air Brick 215mm x 140mm Buff

Hepworth Terracotta Airbrick Square Hole Buff 215mm X 140mm

215mm 65mm X 50mm Redbank Clay Square Hole Air Brick Red

Timloc Plastic Airbrick 215 X 60 X 69mm Terracotta

215mm X 140mm X 50mm Redbank Clay Square Hole Air Brick Red

215mm X 215mm X 50mm Redbank Clay Square Hole Air Brick Buff

215mm X 215mm X 50mm Redbank Clay Square Hole Air Brick Red

Hepworth Terracotta Airbrick Square Hole Buff 215mm X 65mm

Timloc Airbrick 215 X 69 X 60mm White