Certified Residential Appraiser Practice Exam

Which of the following correctly describes brick?

1. It is a composite material

2. It is made from sand and gravel

3. It is made of clay and baked

4. It is a wood-based product

The correct answer is: It is made of clay and baked

The description of brick as being made of clay and baked is accurate because traditional bricks are produced by forming clay into blocks and then firing them in a kiln at high temperatures. This process removes moisture and increases strength, durability, and resistance to weathering. The structure of brick allows it to be a sturdy building material commonly used in construction for walls, pavements, and other structures. In contrast, describing brick as a composite material would not be accurate, as it is primarily a single material formed through a specific process rather than a combination of multiple ingredients. Additionally, while bricks are sometimes made with different additives for specific purposes, they are not composed of sand and gravel, which are instead materials used in concrete. Lastly, brick is not wood-based; it does not come from trees or contain organic compounds associated with wood products. Understanding the composition and production of brick is vital for appraising properties where brick is a significant feature.