Choosing reclaimed bricks is about more than appearance—it’s about honoring craftsmanship and ensuring lasting strength. The right reclaimed brick balances beauty, durability, and history, giving your project texture and authenticity that new materials rarely match.
New Orleans Brick & Stone hand-selects every reclaimed brick from century-old structures, test each for strength, and prepare them for shipping. Our process ensures every brick carries its original patina and enduring quality. This helps builders, architects, and homeowners achieve a genuine historic look that lasts.
This guide explores everything you need to know when choosing reclaimed brick—from assessing condition and authenticity to matching color, size, and texture for your specific design.
Understanding Reclaimed Brick
Reclaimed bricks have a unique story and distinct qualities that set them apart from new bricks. Knowing what reclaimed brick is, its benefits, and where it comes from helps you make a thoughtful choice for your project.
What Is Reclaimed Brick
Reclaimed brick is brick that has been salvaged from old buildings. These bricks are removed carefully, cleaned, and prepared for reuse. Unlike new bricks, reclaimed bricks carry the marks of time, like weathering and chipping, which add unique texture and character.
You might find reclaimed bricks with slight size differences or subtle color variations because they come from different eras and manufacturing methods. This makes them ideal if you want a natural, historic look.
When choosing reclaimed brick, make sure it has been inspected for durability and cleaned properly to remove old mortar.
Benefits of Using Reclaimed Brick
One major benefit is the environmental impact. Reclaimed bricks reduce waste by reusing materials instead of producing new ones. This lowers carbon emissions and saves resources. Using reclaimed brick is also cost-effective in many cases since you avoid the energy-intensive process of new brick manufacturing.
In addition to sustainability, reclaimed bricks offer unmatched character. Their texture and aged colors bring warmth and charm to your space. These bricks tend to be very durable, having already stood the test of time. If you want an authentic feel rooted in history, reclaimed bricks deliver.
Common Sources of Reclaimed Brick
Reclaimed bricks come mostly from demolished or renovated older buildings. This includes factories, homes, warehouses, and historic structures over 100 years old. These sources provide bricks with rich textures and stories. When sourcing reclaimed brick, quality and authenticity are key.
At a trusted company, bricks are hand-selected and tested for strength and look. This ensures you get genuine, ready-to-use materials you can trust. Buying from a supplier with good inventory and fast shipping can speed up your project.
Identifying Quality Reclaimed Bricks
You want bricks that will last and look great while keeping their historic character. Focus on how strong they are, how consistent their color is, and what signs of aging they show. These factors help you pick bricks that fit your project’s needs and style.
Spotting Structural Integrity
Check for cracks, chips, or crumbling edges. Good-quality reclaimed bricks should be solid without major damage. Tap the brick; it should sound dense, not hollow. Look at the thickness and shape.
Bricks that are warped or too thin may be weak or hard to lay evenly. Also, avoid bricks that have large chunks missing—they can weaken walls over time.
Assessing Color Consistency
Reclaimed bricks come from various sources, so their colors may vary. Decide if you want a uniform look or a mix of tones. For a consistent style, choose bricks from the same batch or building. Notice the consistency in color across bricks.
A wide range of shades can look more natural but might not match your design. Beware of bricks that have been overly cleaned or painted, as they may lose authentic color and texture. For a rich, historic look that holds the patina of aged brick, a trusted company supplies materials that keep their original, timeless hues.
Recognizing Signs of Wear
Wear shows a brick’s history but affects its usability. Look for smooth edges caused by erosion, surface pitting, or slight mortar traces. These marks add character but shouldn’t compromise strength. Avoid bricks with excessive flaking or deep cracks—these may break apart under pressure.
Light weathering that reveals the original texture is acceptable. Use wear as a guide to the brick’s origin and age, but balance it with structural soundness to keep your project safe and beautiful.
Verifying Authenticity and Origin
Knowing where your reclaimed bricks come from and ensuring they are genuine is key to getting the quality and character your project needs. Authentic bricks show marks of their history and must be sourced legally and ethically for a true heritage feel.
Checking for Manufacturer Marks
Look closely at the brick surfaces for manufacturer marks or stamps. These often appear as initials, logos, or unique patterns pressed into the brick during firing. These marks help confirm the brick’s age and origin. Older bricks from historic buildings will often have worn but visible markings.
New bricks made to look old usually lack genuine marks or have uniform, machine-like stamps. You can ask suppliers for close-up photos or documentation of these marks. Trusted experts check every brick for these details to guarantee authenticity before it leaves the yard.
Tracing Historical Use
Understanding where the bricks were taken from adds value and context. Authentic reclaimed bricks come from buildings that are 100 years or older, such as old homes, industrial sites, or historic landmarks.
You should ask sellers for details like the building’s history, location, and age. Sometimes, reclaimed bricks carry pockmarks, old mortar remnants, or unique textures that reflect their past environment.
This history not only tells a story but also ensures the brick’s durability. Select bricks with clear, well-documented provenance for the best blend of legacy and reliability in your project.
Ensuring Legal and Ethical Sourcing
Make sure bricks are reclaimed following local laws and ethical standards to avoid issues later. Bricks removed from protected historic sites or without proper permits can cause legal trouble or delay your build. Work only with suppliers who verify the origin and have permission to salvage bricks.
Confirm they follow responsible practices, like safe removal and reuse of materials in good condition. We offers transparency on all materials, sourcing from trusted structures and preparing bricks properly for reuse. This ensures your project respects both the law and the heritage behind the brick.
Selecting Bricks for Specific Projects
Choosing the right reclaimed brick depends on where and how you plan to use it. You must think about its function indoors or outdoors, the size and style that fits your design, and how well it handles your area's climate.
Determining Suitability for Indoor vs. Outdoor Applications
When selecting reclaimed brick, matching the brick’s durability with your project’s environment is key. For outdoor use, bricks must resist moisture, frost, and temperature changes. Look for bricks that were originally used outdoors—they tend to be stronger and less porous.
Indoor bricks can have more variation in texture and color since they won’t face harsh weather. These bricks offer warmth and character to fireplaces, accent walls, or flooring. For reliable sourcing, our team tests each brick for strength and weather resistance before sale.
Matching Brick Size and Style
Reclaimed bricks come in various sizes, shapes, and surface textures. To achieve a cohesive look, measure your existing bricks or the design specs before ordering. Consistency in size is crucial if you want straight mortar joints and a clean finish.
Style matters too—handmade bricks often have irregular edges and a rustic feel. Machine-made bricks are more uniform, offering a polished look. Consider the brick color and patina as well. The aged character of reclaimed bricks can add depth and warmth to your project, but ensure it fits your architectural style.
Adapting to Regional Climate Requirements
Your region’s climate influences the type of reclaimed brick you should choose. In wet or freezing climates, bricks must have low water absorption to avoid cracking during freeze-thaw cycles. In hot, dry areas, bricks should resist heat without fading. Coastal zones need salt-resistant bricks to prevent deterioration.
Consult with experts about your local climate challenges and select bricks accordingly. Proper sealing and mortar choice also improve brick performance in harsh conditions. Careful selection based on climate helps maintain your project’s beauty and durability over time.
Evaluating Environmental Impact
Choosing reclaimed brick means making decisions that affect more than just your project’s look and cost. You also reduce the impact on the planet by lowering carbon emissions and cutting down waste.
Lifecycle Value and Long-Term Sustainability
Sustainability in reclaimed brick goes beyond reduced emissions—it’s also about longevity. The U.S. Department of Energy emphasizes that brick masonry, especially reclaimed materials, has one of the longest service lives of any construction product, often exceeding a century with minimal maintenance.
By reusing existing materials, builders extend that lifespan even further, reducing waste generation and resource extraction over multiple building cycles. Incorporating reclaimed brick into new projects therefore creates a long-term sustainability advantage rooted in endurance, not just recycling.
Minimizing Carbon Footprint
Reclaimed bricks cut your carbon footprint because they don’t require new baking or quarrying. This saves energy and reduces greenhouse gas emissions compared to producing new bricks. Studies show reusing bricks can lower environmental impact by up to 88% compared to new ones.
When you select reclaimed bricks from companies, you support a supply chain focused on reducing emissions. These bricks come from century-old buildings, which means their production energy was used long ago. By using them again, you avoid adding new emissions now.
Recycling and Waste Reduction
Using reclaimed bricks keeps quality materials out of landfills, saving space and reducing pollution. Construction waste is a big problem, and reusing bricks helps divert tons of debris every year. Recycling bricks also reduces the need for raw materials, which protects natural landscapes.
At our store, reclaimed bricks are carefully tested and prepared to last, meaning fewer materials end up discarded due to structural issues. This responsible reuse supports sustainable building practices and connects you to a legacy of craftsmanship and care.
Budgeting and Sourcing Tips
Knowing how much reclaimed brick will cost and where to find reliable suppliers will save you time and money. Carefully planning your budget and choosing the right sources helps ensure your project stays on track without surprises.
Estimating Costs of Reclaimed Brick
The price of reclaimed brick varies widely based on color, rarity, and condition. Common blends typically cost between 85p and 90p per brick. Rare or unique bricks may run up to £1.50 each due to the extra work involved in sourcing and preparing them.
Keep in mind, reclaimed bricks often require additional labor for careful installation. This can increase your total cost versus new bricks but results in a distinct, historic look with durability. You should also factor in shipping and handling fees.
Our team keeps inventory ready to ship quickly, which can reduce unexpected delays and related expenses.
Locating Reliable Suppliers
When choosing where to buy, pick suppliers who specialize in authentic reclaimed brick from old buildings. Reliable sellers let you handpick bricks or offer detailed photos and descriptions of inventory. Look for suppliers with a reputation for quality and fast delivery.
We offer nationwide shipping within 48 hours, helping you avoid project delays. Visit reclamation yards if possible to see the brick firsthand. Otherwise, verify supplier guarantees on brick condition and size uniformity.
Trust comes from knowing you’ll get durable, tested materials that fit your vision. Focus on suppliers with strong customer service. Direct communication helps resolve issues quickly and ensures you get materials that meet your expectations.
Preparing Reclaimed Bricks for Use
To get your reclaimed bricks ready, you need to focus on removing old mortar and dirt, then store and handle them carefully to keep their condition. Proper cleaning and smart storage help maintain the brick’s strength and look.
Cleaning Techniques
Start by removing old mortar attached to the bricks. Use a chisel and wire brush to carefully chip away the mortar without damaging the brick surface. For finer cleaning, a pressure washer can be effective but keep the pressure moderate to avoid cracking.
Soaking bricks in water before cleaning helps soften any remaining mortar, making it easier to remove. Avoid harsh chemicals that can weaken the brick’s surface. After cleaning, let the bricks dry completely in a shaded, ventilated area.
Always inspect each brick for cracks or structural damage during cleaning to make sure you only use durable pieces. Well-prepared bricks come already tested for strength and quality, saving you time.
Storage and Handling Best Practices
Keep reclaimed bricks stored in dry, covered areas to prevent moisture damage. Stack them carefully on wooden pallets or raised platforms to allow air circulation and avoid direct contact with dirt or water.
When moving bricks, handle them gently to prevent chips and cracks. Use gloves and avoid dropping bricks or throwing them into piles. Label and organize your bricks by size or type to make choosing the right pieces easier during your project.
Keeping your bricks stable and dry preserves their authentic look and durability, key to a lasting build. We support your project with ready-to-use inventory, helping ensure your bricks arrive in the best condition.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
When choosing reclaimed brick, mismatched sizing can cause problems. Bricks from old buildings may vary in size. If you don’t check this, your project could look uneven or require extra cutting. Another mistake is ignoring brick condition.
Chips, cracks, or crumbling edges affect strength and appearance. Make sure bricks are sound and suitable for your project. Skipping cleaning and preparation is also common. Old bricks often have mortar or dirt that must be removed.
Failing to clean bricks can weaken mortar adhesion and harm the final look. Many people underestimate the importance of structural integrity. Don’t assume all reclaimed bricks are strong enough for load-bearing walls.
Confirm the brick’s durability, especially for foundations or exterior walls. Lastly, overlooking delivery speed and inventory might delay your project. At a trusted supplier, stock is hand-selected and ready to ship within 48 hours.
Building With Legacy: Choosing Reclaimed Brick That Lasts
Selecting reclaimed brick is both a design and preservation decision. Each brick carries a story of resilience, craftsmanship, and environmental responsibility. When chosen carefully, reclaimed bricks offer unmatched character, long-term performance, and the satisfaction of knowing your project continues a legacy.
At New Orleans Brick & Stone, we take pride in offering hand-selected reclaimed bricks sourced from century-old structures. Every piece is cleaned, tested, and ready to ship nationwide, helping homeowners, builders, and architects create spaces that honor authenticity.
Bring heritage and endurance together in your next project. Explore the full range of reclaimed brick and stone with our authentic materials ready to ship within 48 hours. Start building with history that stands the test of time.
Frequently Asked Questions
Understanding the condition, use, and benefits of reclaimed brick is key to choosing the right material for your project. Questions often focus on brick quality, installation methods, durability, and environmental impact.
What should I look for when assessing the condition of reclaimed bricks?
Check for cracks, chips, and structural damage. Look for uniformity in size if your project requires consistent dimensions. Inspect for mortar remnants and cleanability.
How can I tell if a reclaimed brick is suitable for outdoor use?
Outdoor bricks should be dense and fired well to resist moisture. Test for water absorption by seeing how quickly a small amount of water soaks in—slower absorption is better for weather resistance. Ask your supplier if the bricks have proven durability in exterior environments.
What are the best practices for installing a reclaimed brick backsplash?
Clean bricks thoroughly to remove dust and loose mortar. Seal the bricks before installing to prevent stains and ease cleaning. Use a flexible adhesive to accommodate slight size variations in the bricks.
In terms of durability, how does reclaimed brick compare to new brick?
Reclaimed bricks often come from older buildings made with higher-quality clay and longer firing times. They tend to be denser and stronger due to historic craftsmanship. New bricks can vary widely in quality, often focusing on speed and cost.
Can reclaimed brick be used for flooring, and what should be considered before laying it?
Yes, reclaimed brick can be used for flooring but must be carefully selected for strength. Make sure bricks are stable and mostly free of cracks. Use a suitable mortar and sealant to protect against wear and moisture.
What are the environmental benefits of using reclaimed brick in construction?
Using reclaimed brick reduces waste from demolition sites. It lowers the demand for new brick production, saving natural resources and energy. Reclaimed brick offers an authentic, historic character and supports sustainable building practices.
When sourcing your materials, New Orleans Brick & Stone provides hand-selected, authentic reclaimed bricks. Their inventory ships nationwide swiftly, supporting your heritage-driven, durable project with real family care.
