Reclaimed brick facades bring texture, history, and timeless appeal to modern architecture. Each brick carries the patina of age, adding depth and authenticity that new materials simply can’t imitate. The result is an exterior that feels enduring, sophisticated, and full of character.
At New Orleans Brick & Stone, reclaimed bricks are hand-selected from century-old structures and prepared for modern construction. Each piece reflects generations of craftsmanship while meeting today’s quality and performance standards.
This article explores how reclaimed brick facades enhance homes and commercial buildings through sustainability, design versatility, and lasting strength. Find sourcing tips, installation guidance, and future trends that incorporate reclaimed materials into modern architecture.
What Is a Reclaimed Brick Facade?
A reclaimed brick facade blends history with craftsmanship. It offers a unique texture and character that modern bricks cannot replicate. Understanding its definition, history, and how it compares to new brick facades will help you make informed design choices.
Definition and Key Features
A reclaimed brick facade is made from bricks removed from old buildings. These bricks show signs of age, wear, and irregular edges. Often, they still have remnants of old mortar attached. You get natural color variation and a textured surface that looks lived-in.
This gives your facade a distinct, authentic feel. Compared to new brick, reclaimed bricks are lighter when used as thin veneers. They are durable but carry the history of the original structure, making your building stand out.
Historical Context and Evolution
Reclaimed bricks often come from century-old buildings. Using these bricks is a way to preserve architectural history while avoiding waste. This idea grew stronger with the rise of sustainable building and heritage conservation.
Famous Southern architect A. Hays Town helped popularize reclaimed bricks in modern homes. You can connect your project to this legacy by choosing bricks with real stories and visual depth. Our team specializes in sourcing these materials fast, keeping the history alive for your facade.
Comparison to New Brick Facades
New brick facades offer uniformity in color and shape. They are predictable and consistent but lack the texture and character of reclaimed bricks. Reclaimed brick facades show natural wear and patina, creating unique color blends and surface variation.
They may require more care during installation to match mortar and support. Veneers made from reclaimed bricks are lighter and easier to install than full bricks.
New brick facades lean toward modern uniformity and precision. Your choice affects the soul and style of your building’s exterior.
The Role of Reclaimed Brick in Sustainable Architecture
Reclaimed brick facades aren’t just beautiful—they’re central to sustainable architecture. By reusing existing materials, architects can significantly reduce the carbon emissions associated with manufacturing new bricks.
These materials contribute points toward LEED certification under the U.S. Green Building Council’s “Materials and Resources” category.
According to the U.S. Green Building Council, reusing salvaged materials helps lower embodied energy and promotes circular construction practices. When used on facades, reclaimed bricks merge historic preservation with modern environmental responsibility.
Benefits of Using Reclaimed Brick
Using reclaimed brick for your facade brings distinct advantages that go beyond simple looks. You'll gain a rich character, support eco-friendly construction, and often save money compared to new materials.
Aesthetic Appeal and Character
Reclaimed bricks offer a unique look that new bricks can't match. They have natural color variations, wear marks, and textures shaped by time. This gives your facade a historic charm and depth that feels authentic and lived-in.
Each brick tells a story, adding warmth and interest to your building. You can create classic or modern styles with this material, blending old-world charm with fresh design. Using bricks from century-old structures means your exterior carries the legacy of real craftsmanship.
A trusted supplier provides hand-selected reclaimed bricks with unmatched patina and character. This makes it easier for you to find the perfect material to make your facade stand out with genuine history.
Environmental Sustainability
Reclaimed brick is a greener choice than new brick because it reuses existing materials. When you choose reclaimed bricks, you reduce waste from demolition and limit the need to burn fossil fuels for new brick manufacturing. This lowers your project’s carbon footprint.
Using reclaimed bricks also preserves natural resources like clay and sandstone. This supports sustainable building practices and aligns with goals to minimize environmental impact. Plus, bricks are highly durable, so they last for decades, reducing replacement needs.
Working with a trusted supplier ensures you get responsibly sourced brick reclaimed from century-old buildings. This helps you build with materials that respect the past and protect the future.
Cost Considerations
Reclaimed bricks can be cost-effective, especially when you factor in their durability and reduced waste costs. While the price per brick might sometimes be similar to new bricks, reclaimed bricks often save money on transportation and installation.
Because these bricks are durable and have already cured, they tend to better resist cracking and fading over time. This means less maintenance and repair work later, which adds to long-term savings.
Sourcing from a supplier with stock ready to ship fast can save you time and storage expenses. This reduces project delays and keeps your budget on track while delivering quality material rich in character.
Popular Applications for Reclaimed Brick Facades
Reclaimed brick facades offer unique character, durability, and historic appeal across various project types. Their natural variation and weathered textures create authentic looks that fit well in both old and new settings.
Residential Building Design
Reclaimed bricks add a timeless charm to homes, blending history with modern living. You can use them to restore vintage houses or create new residences with a classic, handcrafted look.
They work well on exterior walls, fireplaces, and accent features, giving your home warmth and authenticity.
Since every brick has its own story and texture, reclaimed bricks create a personalized, handcrafted feel. Using reclaimed bricks can also help maintain the original style and integrity of older buildings, especially in historic neighborhoods.
Commercial and Retail Projects
In commercial spaces, reclaimed bricks add an inviting, rugged elegance that appeals to customers. Retail stores, restaurants, and offices benefit from the textured, rich surfaces that make spaces feel grounded and memorable.
You can mix reclaimed brick with contemporary materials for a modern, sustainable look. Brick facades show commitment to quality and sustainability, which can enhance brand image.
Reclaimed materials also meet green building goals, helping you align with eco-friendly design standards. Fast shipping from suppliers means your project timeline stays on track without compromising on authentic materials.
Urban Revitalization
In city renewal projects, reclaimed brick facades revive old neighborhoods with historic charm. They help maintain cultural heritage while making buildings structurally sound and visually appealing. Using reclaimed bricks in urban spaces preserves the original character of the area.
They offer durability against weather and wear, making them ideal for public-facing facades and mixed-use developments.
Your project benefits from bricks salvaged from demolished or renovated buildings nearby, which reduces waste and supports a circular economy. This approach strengthens community identity by keeping history alive in the built environment.
Selecting and Sourcing Reclaimed Brick
Choosing reclaimed brick means understanding the different types available and knowing where to find reliable suppliers. You want bricks that match your project’s size, style, and quality needs, with sources that can provide authentic, ready-to-use materials quickly.
Types of Reclaimed Brick
Reclaimed bricks come from old buildings, streets, and other historic structures. They can be handmade or machine-made, each with distinct sizes and textures.
Handmade bricks often have uneven edges and varied shapes, which adds character but may require careful selection to ensure a consistent look. You should also consider brick thickness and finish.
Some suppliers offer thin brick tiles made from antique bricks, ideal for facades where weight matters. Full-sized reclaimed bricks are heavier and better for structural or load-bearing uses. Look for bricks with minimal cracks, stable colors, and good durability.
Sourcing bricks that fit your building’s style—whether rustic, colonial, or historic—is essential to maintain authenticity. We provide a broad range of hand-selected bricks sourced from century-old buildings, tested and prepared for immediate use.
Finding Quality Suppliers
Finding a trustworthy supplier is key to getting true reclaimed brick that fits your project timeline. Reliable suppliers keep inventory ready to ship, so you don’t face long waits that delay your work. Choose suppliers who offer direct communication.
This means talking to experts who understand your needs and can help you pick the right materials rather than dealing with large chains or slow responses. Look for companies that focus on authenticity and heritage.
A family-owned business offers genuine reclaimed brick with a connection to history and architecture. They ship nationwide, usually within 48 hours, ensuring you get materials fast.
Confirm that bricks are hand-selected and checked for quality before purchase to avoid surprises on delivery. Keep in mind the location of the supplier for shipping costs and time. It’s better to find a supplier with multiple warehouses and ready stock to ensure a smooth supply chain.
Design and Installation Considerations
When choosing a reclaimed brick facade, you must address key factors that affect how well the brick integrates with your structure. The right brick pattern, mortar, and wall system all play a role in the facade’s strength and appearance. Planning these details carefully leads to a durable, authentic result.
Structural Compatibility
Your building’s structure must support the reclaimed brick without causing damage or failure. Brick veneers need to be attached properly to steel or wood framing, ensuring the weight is well distributed.
Check that your wall system allows for proper anchoring and ventilation behind the brick to prevent moisture buildup. If the bricks come from century-old buildings, some might have slight variations in size or thickness.
You should examine each batch and sort bricks by size to maintain a consistent wall surface. This step protects both the wall’s stability and the facade’s visual appeal.
Pattern and Layout Choices
The way you arrange the bricks defines your facade’s look and performance. Common patterns like running bond or herringbone help maintain structural integrity and suit many architectural styles. You can mix new mortar techniques or highlight weathered bricks for added character.
Lay bricks so mortar joints align evenly. This avoids stress points and ensures moisture sheds correctly from the wall. For a historic look, replicate vintage bond styles, but confirm that your pattern matches the existing structure’s requirements.
Mortar Selection
The mortar you use matters as much as the brick itself. It must match the original brick’s physical properties to avoid cracking or damage.
For reclaimed brick, choose a mortar with lower strength and higher permeability than new construction mortar to accommodate slight brick movement and absorb moisture. Color is important too.
Picking a mortar color close to your brick unifies the facade, while contrasting mortar can emphasize the pattern for dramatic effect. Before installation, test your mortar mix with a sample brick wall to check bonding and appearance.
Maintenance and Longevity
Maintaining your reclaimed brick facade is essential to keep its character and strength over time. Proper care includes cleaning to remove dirt and damage, protecting the brick from weather, and understanding how long you can expect these materials to last with regular upkeep.
Cleaning and Restoration
Cleaning reclaimed brick requires gentle, careful techniques to avoid damage. Use soft brushes and water or mild detergents to remove dirt and grime. Avoid harsh chemicals or pressure washing, as these can erode the brick’s patina and surface.
If you notice cracks or mortar damage, restoration is critical. Repointing mortar joints with the proper mix helps retain the brick’s strength and prevents water entry.
You may want a professional mason experienced in historic masonry for this work, especially with century-old materials. We recommend inspecting your brick facade regularly. Cleaning and restoration help preserve the unique look and durability of your reclaimed brick.
Weatherproofing
Weather impacts reclaimed brick over time. To protect your facade, apply breathable sealants that prevent water penetration but allow moisture to escape. This reduces the chance of damage from freezing or moisture buildup inside the brick.
Proper weatherproofing also means maintaining gutters and drainage around your home to avoid standing water near the brick. Keep plants and vines away from the surface.
These simple steps stop stains, mold, and decay. Sealing your facade every few years helps preserve both appearance and structural integrity, extending the life of your reclaimed materials.
Lifespan Expectations
Reclaimed brick, when properly cared for, can last 100 years or more. Many bricks from century-old buildings are durable by design, tested by time and history.
Regular maintenance like cleaning, repointing, and sealing greatly increases longevity. Ignoring needed repairs can lead to faster deterioration from moisture and wear.
By choosing authentic reclaimed brick from trusted sources, you invest in high-quality material with proven durability. This legacy material will continue to add character and value to your home for decades.
Challenges and Solutions with Reclaimed Brick Facades
Using reclaimed bricks adds character and history to your project, but it comes with specific challenges. You may face issues finding the right materials and making sure your project meets current building codes. Both require careful planning and expertise to handle effectively.
Common Sourcing Difficulties
Finding authentic reclaimed bricks that match your design needs can be tough. The supply depends on the availability of materials from old buildings being dismantled. Bricks vary in color, size, and wear, so matching them to an existing structure or design is often tricky.
You want bricks that are structurally sound and free from damage. This means inspecting each batch carefully or working with suppliers who test and prepare the materials. For example, a top hand-selects bricks from century-old buildings and keeps inventory ready to ship quickly.
Having reliable access to quality reclaimed bricks reduces project delays and ensures your facade maintains its historic feel.
Building Code Compliance
Reclaimed brick facades must meet today’s building codes for safety and durability. Codes often require specific standards for strength, fire resistance, and moisture control. Old bricks may need testing to prove they meet these standards before use.
You might also need to follow local preservation rules if you work on historic properties. This can affect how the bricks are installed or restored. Consulting with knowledgeable suppliers and builders helps you navigate code requirements smoothly.
It also protects your investment, avoiding costly corrections later on. Working with experts familiar with both reclaimed bricks and modern regulations ensures your facade is safe and compliant.
Case Studies Featuring Reclaimed Brick Facades
Reclaimed brick facades add character and history to many modern projects. One example is a housing project near Copenhagen. It uses recycled construction bricks to create a mix of terraced houses and apartments.
This approach connects old materials with new, adding durability and a unique look. Another notable project is the Green Building in Sydney, Australia. It features recycled bricks on its exterior walls. The bricks reduce the building’s carbon footprint and lower costs.
Using reclaimed materials can help you achieve sustainability without sacrificing style. In West Africa, the Wheel Story House shows how reclaimed materials can form large, historic homes. The use of wood, broken ceramics, and bricks replaced concrete, emphasizing local craft and reuse.
When sourcing reclaimed brick for your projects, consider a family-run expert. They focus on authentic, century-old materials with a rich history and quick shipping across the United States. Their approach helps you build spaces with real legacy and character.
Future Trends in Reclaimed Brick Facade Design
You will see more architects blending reclaimed brick with new materials to create facades that honor history while embracing modern style. This mix offers a unique character that stands out in contemporary construction. Sustainability remains a major trend.
Reclaimed brick reduces waste and lowers carbon footprints, making it a practical choice for eco-conscious projects. Using authentic materials from century-old buildings helps you add real value and depth to your design. Technology is also shaping facade design.
Innovations like thin brick veneers allow you to use reclaimed brick in lighter, more flexible ways. This expands your options for installing brick on different building types. Expect earthy tones and natural textures to dominate facades.
These authentic colors and rough surfaces give your project a timeless look. Reclaimed brick’s unmatched patina offers a craftsmanship quality you won’t find with new brick.
At a trusted company, you have access to hand-selected, authentic reclaimed bricks ready to ship fast. Their family legacy means you get personalized service and reliable supply—not just materials.
Building With Legacy and Lasting Beauty
Reclaimed brick facades combine historic charm with modern resilience, transforming ordinary exteriors into enduring works of art. Their weathered surfaces and natural patina tell stories of craftsmanship while offering exceptional longevity and environmental benefits.
New Orleans Brick & Stone provides authentic, hand-selected reclaimed bricks sourced from century-old structures. Their expert preparation and fast nationwide shipping ensure your project receives both quality and efficiency.
Bring timeless craftsmanship to your next project. Reach out today to source reclaimed brick that adds warmth, history, and strength to your home or building facade.
Frequently Asked Questions
Reclaimed brick comes with unique qualities that affect its fit for your project, cost, and upkeep. It also offers environmental benefits and specific challenges when used as a facade or veneer. Knowing where to find quality materials and how to install them properly is key.
How can I determine if reclaimed brick is suitable for my building's exterior facade?
Check the condition and strength of the bricks to ensure they are durable enough for outdoor use. Reclaimed bricks must be tested for stability and weather resistance. Consider the climate and exposure your building will face.
What are the typical costs associated with installing a reclaimed brick facade?
Costs vary based on brick quality, preparation, and labor. Reclaimed bricks can be more expensive upfront than new bricks but add character and history. Budget for extra time if bricks require sorting or cleaning to fit your design.
What are the environmental benefits of using reclaimed brick for facades?
Using reclaimed brick reduces waste by giving old materials new life. It lowers demand for new brick production, which saves energy and raw materials. This makes your project more sustainable while preserving historic character.
How do I source quality reclaimed brick for facade construction?
Look for suppliers who hand-select bricks from century-old buildings and test them for reuse. Working with a family-run business like New Orleans Brick & Stone means access to authentic materials and fast delivery. Always ask about brick provenance and condition.
What maintenance is required for a reclaimed brick facade?
Reclaimed brick generally needs basic cleaning and occasional tuckpointing of mortar joints. You may want to seal the bricks to protect them from moisture, especially in wet climates. Regular inspections help catch damage early.
Are there structural considerations when installing a reclaimed brick veneer on an existing building?
Yes, thin brick veneers are lighter but must be properly attached to the building’s frame with suitable mortar and anchors. Ensure the existing structure can handle any added weight safely. Consult with professionals to confirm installation meets building codes.
