Reclaimed brick flooring brings depth, history, and authenticity to any space. Each tile tells a story through its aged texture and natural color variation, creating a warmth that modern materials simply cannot replicate.
At New Orleans Brick & Stone, every reclaimed brick is hand-selected from century-old structures across the South. These bricks are cleaned, tested, and prepared for easy installation—ensuring lasting beauty and strength with the efficiency of modern service.
This article explores the benefits, design options, installation process, and maintenance of reclaimed brick flooring. You’ll learn how to create a floor that’s not only durable and eco-friendly but also rich in character and historic charm.
What Is Reclaimed Brick Flooring?
Reclaimed brick flooring offers a mix of history, texture, and durability. Using these bricks means choosing materials with character and a story, unlike new bricks. You’ll learn what reclaimed brick flooring is, how it compares to new options, and where these bricks typically come from.
Definition of Reclaimed Brick
Reclaimed brick refers to bricks taken from old buildings that have been demolished or renovated. These bricks are cleaned, tested, and prepared for use in new flooring projects. Because these bricks come from structures often over 100 years old, they have a unique texture, color variation, and patina that new bricks can’t match.
This gives your floor an authentic, lived-in feel. Reclaimed brick flooring is usually made from thin brick tiles that are easier to install and still maintain the look of full bricks. Choosing reclaimed brick flooring means you use materials that have already stood the test of time, offering strength and wear resistance.
You’ll also be contributing to a more sustainable building practice by reusing existing materials instead of new ones.
Comparison to New Brick Flooring
New brick flooring is made from freshly manufactured bricks, which are uniform in size, color, and texture. These bricks often lack the character and historic appeal found in reclaimed bricks. Reclaimed brick flooring typically has more color variation and surface imperfections, enhancing its rustic and authentic look.
While new bricks can be smoother and more consistent, reclaimed bricks often feel warmer and add more visual interest to your space. In terms of durability, both types are strong. However, reclaimed bricks often have a denser composition due to their age and original manufacturing methods, which can make them more long-lasting.
A key difference for you might be installation. Reclaimed brick floors usually come in thinner tiles, which can be easier to handle and install compared to thick, solid new bricks.
Typical Sources of Reclaimed Brick
Reclaimed bricks usually come from older buildings that are taken down or renovated. These can include factories, schools, barns, warehouses, and historic homes. Because these bricks were made decades or even centuries ago, they often carry the marks of their original use, including chipped corners, uneven surfaces, and weathered shades of red, pink, and brown.
A top company sources its bricks from century-old structures in the southern U.S., preserving the rich history and unique quality of each piece. This careful selection process ensures the bricks you get have been hand-selected for strength and character.
Benefits of Reclaimed Brick Flooring
Reclaimed brick flooring offers practical value, timeless style, and a connection to history. Choosing this material means investing in floors that are strong, environmentally friendly, and full of character. You get a unique look while reducing your project’s impact on the environment.
Sustainability and Eco-Friendliness
Reclaimed brick flooring reduces waste and the need for new brick production. You avoid the energy-heavy process involved in making new bricks. This means your project lowers its carbon footprint.
Using bricks taken from old buildings, like barns or mills, means you reuse durable materials instead of sending them to landfills.
This supports circular building practices, a growing focus in construction. For quick access to authentic reclaimed bricks, some suppliers keep a large inventory ready to ship within 48 hours. This helps you stay on schedule while choosing eco-friendly options.
Unique Aesthetic and Character
Each reclaimed brick tells a story through its texture, color, and wear. You won’t find two bricks exactly alike because their past use leaves unique marks. These natural variations create a warm, inviting floor that adds personality to any room.
Unlike new bricks, reclaimed ones feature historical patina and subtle imperfections. This results in a floor that looks both timeless and lived-in. You can use these bricks in kitchens, foyers, or outdoor areas to add richness and depth.
By selecting reclaimed bricks from trusted sources, you ensure authenticity and quality that enhances your home’s style.
Durability and Longevity
Reclaimed bricks come from structures that have lasted 100 years or more. This proves their strength against wear, weather, and heavy foot traffic. When you install reclaimed brick flooring, you are investing in a surface that can last for decades.
The bricks have already cured and settled, making them less likely to crack or degrade after installation. Properly installed reclaimed brick also resists moisture and staining better than many synthetic options. This durability makes it practical for high-use spaces while maintaining charm.
Historical Value
Choosing reclaimed brick flooring connects your project to history and heritage. Each brick has a story from its original building, reflecting craftsmanship from a time when materials were made by hand. If you want to honor Southern architecture or the legacy of A. Hays Town, reclaimed bricks are a way to bring that spirit into your home.
These bricks carry the character of past eras, adding meaning to your design. Using reclaimed flooring anchors your space in a tradition of quality and care. It brings a tangible link to the past that new bricks cannot match, enriching your project’s story.
Design and Style Options
Choosing reclaimed brick flooring means selecting rich textures, flexible layouts, and color palettes that suit your space. You can mix classic patterns with modern finishes to build a look that fits both historic charm and current style trends.
Popular Patterns and Layouts
Reclaimed brick floors work well with many patterns. The herringbone pattern is popular because it adds motion and visual interest. It uses thinner bricks, often 2 inches wide, for a precise, tailored look.
Traditional running bond or stack bond layouts give a simple, timeless feel. These suit rustic or farmhouse-style rooms. Borders and accents can be created with larger reclaimed brick tiles to frame spaces.
You can also try grid patterns or diagonal layouts to make smaller rooms feel larger. Each pattern changes the room’s flow, so think about how people move through the space. With the right layout, your floor will be both durable and eye-catching.
Finish Choices and Color Variations
Reclaimed brick offers a range of finishes, from smooth to weathered. Your choice affects slip resistance and overall appearance. Matte or lightly textured finishes are safer for wet areas like kitchens or mudrooms.
Colors vary from deep reds and rusty browns to soft beiges and greys. These natural, earthy tones come from century-old bricks that developed unique patinas over time.
Using a mix of shades makes the floor look authentic and adds depth. Sealing your floor can enhance color while protecting it from stains. You can select finishes that are glossy or matte depending on your style and maintenance preference.
Blending With Modern and Traditional Spaces
Reclaimed brick flooring fits both old and new designs. In a modern home, it adds warmth and texture to sleek rooms. Pair the brick with clean lines and minimalist furniture for a balanced look.
In traditional spaces, brick complements wood beams, vintage fixtures, and classic trim. It deepens the sense of history and character. Even in high-traffic areas, brick holds up and gains charm with use.
You can mix reclaimed brick floors with stone or wood elements to create layers of texture. Each material brings a story. When you choose authentic bricks, you get more than flooring—you get a piece of architectural legacy.
Installation Process for Reclaimed Brick Flooring
To install reclaimed brick flooring, you first need a solid base, proper cutting skills, and careful grout and seal application. Each step ensures the floor is durable, attractive, and maintains the historic character of the bricks.
Subfloor Preparation
Start with a clean, dry, and level subfloor. Remove any old flooring, debris, or loose materials to create a strong foundation. Concrete slabs, cement backer boards, or plywood are good substrates.
If the subfloor isn’t level, use a leveling compound to smooth out high or low spots. Check for moisture issues. Excess moisture can damage mortar and brick.
Use a moisture barrier if needed. This step is critical to avoid cracks or lifting after installation. Having the subfloor ready ensures your reclaimed brick flooring will last and hold up under daily use.
Cutting and Laying Techniques
Reclaimed bricks vary in size and thickness, so precise cutting is key. Use a wet saw with a diamond blade for clean, straight cuts without damaging the brick’s patina. Lay your bricks in a pattern you prefer—running bond, herringbone, or basketweave.
Dry-lay a row first to fit the bricks and minimize gaps. Space bricks evenly using tile spacers to keep consistent grout lines. Apply mortar with a trowel, spreading it evenly on the subfloor.
Press bricks firmly into the mortar, ensuring no hollow spots underneath. Working in small sections helps maintain control and cleanliness.
Grouting and Sealing
Once the mortar sets, mix grout to a thick but spreadable consistency. Use a grout float to press grout into the gaps between bricks. Remove excess grout with a damp sponge before it dries.
Allow grout to cure according to manufacturer instructions, usually 24-48 hours. After curing, apply a penetrating sealer to protect the bricks from stains and moisture while keeping their authentic look.
Sealing also helps enhance the natural color and texture of the brick. We recommend choosing sealers that maintain the brick’s breathable qualities to preserve the floor’s longevity.
Maintenance and Care
Keeping reclaimed brick flooring in good shape takes attention to cleaning, stain prevention, and sealing. Each step helps maintain the unique character and durability of your bricks while protecting them from wear and damage.
Improving Indoor Air Quality with Brick Flooring
Brick flooring made from reclaimed materials naturally regulates indoor humidity and contains no volatile organic compounds (VOCs). As noted by the U.S. Department of Energy, clay-based materials like brick help maintain thermal balance and reduce pollutants compared to synthetic flooring.
This makes reclaimed brick ideal for healthy home environments. Unlike carpet or vinyl, brick does not trap allergens, dust, or moisture.
The result is cleaner air and fewer maintenance needs, especially in humid climates. Sealing with breathable products preserves the material’s air-purifying qualities while adding durability.
Cleaning Recommendations
Start with daily cleaning by sweeping or vacuuming loose dirt and dust. Use a soft broom or vacuum with a brush attachment to avoid scratching the brick surface. For deeper cleaning, mop with warm water and a mild pH-neutral cleaner.
Avoid harsh chemicals or acidic cleaners, as they can damage the brick’s surface and natural patina. Test any new cleaner on a small, hidden area first. If you see stubborn stains, scrub gently with a soft brush and the same mild cleaner.
Avoid using wire brushes or power washers, which can erode the brick and mortar.
Preventing Stains and Damage
Spills should be wiped up immediately to prevent stains from setting into the porous brick. Avoid using oil-based or colored liquids that can leave lasting marks. Place mats or rugs in high-traffic areas to reduce wear and dirt buildup.
Felt pads under furniture legs protect bricks from scratches and chipping. Be cautious with moisture. While reclaimed brick is durable, excess water over time can cause efflorescence or mortar weakening.
Check your flooring regularly for signs of moisture damage and address leaks quickly.
Re-Sealing Tips
Sealing your reclaimed brick floor creates a protective barrier against stains and wear. Use a breathable, penetrating sealer designed for historic brick to maintain the material’s natural look and ability to release moisture.
Generally, re-seal every 5 to 10 years, depending on the wear your floor experiences. Before applying a new coat, clean the floor thoroughly and allow it to dry completely.
If you purchased your bricks from a trusted company, they can advise on the best sealers compatible with your specific reclaimed materials to preserve their heritage and durability.
Cost Considerations
When choosing reclaimed brick flooring, you should carefully weigh the costs of materials, installation, and the long-term benefits. Each factor affects your overall budget and the value you get from your flooring.
Material and Sourcing Costs
Reclaimed bricks come with a unique history and look, but that often means a higher price than new bricks. You’ll pay more for the authentic patina, texture, and size variations. Prices vary depending on brick condition, size, and rarity.
Sourcing reclaimed bricks can add to the cost because supply depends on availability. If you work with reliable suppliers, you can get hand-selected bricks with minimal wait, usually shipped within 48 hours. This reduces storage and delay costs compared to less responsive suppliers.
Keep in mind, you may encounter extra costs for cleaning, sorting, or treating bricks to prepare them for flooring. These steps ensure durability and safety but add to your upfront expenses.
Labor and Installation Expenses
Installing reclaimed brick flooring requires skilled labor experienced with these materials. Compared to new brick or other flooring, installation is often more complex. Labor costs tend to be higher because reclaimed bricks need careful handling to avoid damage.
The surface may require customized cutting, leveling, and mortar repairs. Thin brick veneer is sometimes used to save on weight and installation time but still needs expert work. Your contractor must also address subfloor preparation, adhesives, and sealing to protect the bricks.
These steps add to the labor and materials budget but improve installation quality and longevity.
Long-Term Value
Reclaimed brick flooring lasts a long time. It offers timeless durability with proper care. The patina and character increase with age, enhancing your home’s aesthetic over time. Though initial costs are higher, reclaimed bricks require minimal maintenance compared to other flooring options.
They don't easily chip or fade, saving money on replacement or repairs. Choosing quality reclaimed materials from a trusted source ensures you invest in a product with lasting appeal and durability.
Where to Buy Reclaimed Brick Flooring
You have several options when looking for reclaimed brick flooring. Each option differs in terms of selection, expertise, and delivery. Knowing where to buy can help you find authentic materials that fit your project’s needs and timeline.
Specialty Suppliers
Specialty suppliers focus solely on reclaimed brick and related materials. They often have a wide inventory of thin brick tiles and full bricks reclaimed from historic buildings. These suppliers usually test and prepare each piece for durability and style, ensuring you get authentic, top-quality materials.
When you buy from specialty suppliers, you can expect expert guidance and detailed product knowledge. They understand the nuances of reclaimed bricks, such as color variation and texture, helping you pick the right product for your flooring.
Our team offers hand-selected reclaimed bricks with fast nationwide shipping. Their inventory is ready to ship within 48 hours, making it easier for you to meet tight project deadlines.
Architectural Salvage Yards
Architectural salvage yards are another source for reclaimed brick flooring. They specialize in materials salvaged from old homes, mills, schools, and public buildings. You can often find unique bricks with historic character that adds personality to your floors.
Salvage yards let you browse physical stock, which helps you see the exact condition and color of the bricks. However, inventory can be limited and vary greatly by location, so you may need to visit multiple yards. Prices at salvage yards tend to be competitive, but availability can be inconsistent.
Timing your purchase and knowing what you want in advance will save you from delays.
Online Marketplaces
Online marketplaces offer convenience and access to a broad range of reclaimed bricks. You can compare styles, colors, and prices from different sellers without leaving your home. These platforms often feature brick flooring tiles sourced from historic buildings nationwide.
Look for marketplaces that provide detailed photos and product descriptions. Shipping policies and return options vary, so check these before you buy. We are one example that ships authentic materials nationally with fast delivery.
Choosing a reliable supplier online ensures you avoid counterfeit or low-quality materials that can come from less specialized sellers.
Common Applications of Reclaimed Brick Flooring
Reclaimed brick flooring fits well in many settings, offering durability and unique character. It works for homes, business spaces, and outdoor areas, lending a historic and rustic touch that combines with modern style.
Residential Spaces
In your home, reclaimed brick flooring adds warmth and texture to areas like kitchens, mudrooms, and entryways. Its natural color variations and worn textures create a cozy, lived-in feeling that wood or tile can’t match.
These bricks come from old buildings with authentic patina and strength, making each floor one of a kind. You get durable surfaces that handle everyday use well and age beautifully over time. If you want a rustic or farmhouse look, reclaimed brick flooring is a strong choice.
Commercial and Public Buildings
For your commercial or public building, reclaimed brick flooring delivers an inviting, historic atmosphere that stands out. It’s a popular option for restaurants, offices, galleries, and retail spaces where character speaks to customers and visitors.
The flooring holds up under heavy foot traffic and requires low maintenance. Its timeless look ties modern design to architectural tradition, giving spaces a refined yet approachable edge. Choosing reclaimed brick flooring also reflects sustainability goals.
Sourcing from vintage materials reduces waste, and we support this by offering authentic bricks tested for quality and reliability.
Outdoor Areas
You can use reclaimed brick flooring outside in patios, walkways, and garden paths. The bricks’ natural toughness makes them resistant to weather and wear. Their unique textures create attractive surfaces ideal for outdoor living spaces.
The uneven surfaces add slip resistance and enhance the look of rustic or historic yards. You can mix reclaimed brick with stone or pavers for various layouts, customizing your outdoor floors to fit your vision.
Our inventory includes many options, with materials reclaimed from century-old buildings, ready for shipping when you need them.
Environmental Impact
Using reclaimed brick flooring lowers your environmental footprint in several key ways. It helps reduce waste, saves energy usually spent on manufacturing new bricks, and can contribute to earning LEED certification in your building projects.
Reducing Waste and Landfill
When you choose reclaimed bricks, you keep old materials out of landfills. Many bricks come from demolition sites where they would otherwise be discarded. By reusing them, you prevent tons of waste that would take years to break down.
This process supports a circular economy by giving life to materials that already exist. Bricks are carefully tested and prepared for reuse, ensuring durability and quality while preserving their historic character.
Using reclaimed bricks also reduces the demand for new resources. It means fewer raw materials are mined or quarried, minimizing damage to natural habitats and lowering overall waste.
Energy Efficiency in Manufacturing
Manufacturing new bricks consumes large amounts of energy, mainly because of the firing process in high-temperature kilns. This energy use releases significant carbon emissions, which contribute to climate change. By selecting reclaimed bricks, you eliminate the need for this energy-intensive step.
The bricks you use have already been fired and cured, so reusing them saves the equivalent energy of producing entirely new bricks. Builders and architects rely on trusted suppliers.
Their reclaimed bricks carry the strength and character of century-old craftsmanship without the environmental costs of new production.
LEED Certification Potential
Using reclaimed brick flooring can help your building project qualify for LEED (Leadership in Energy and Environmental Design) credits. LEED awards points for materials that reduce environmental impact, especially those with recycled content.
By incorporating reclaimed bricks, you demonstrate a commitment to sustainability, which improves your building’s score in categories such as Materials & Resources and Indoor Environmental Quality.
LEED certification can increase a property’s appeal and market value while lowering operating costs due to sustainable design choices.
Potential Challenges and Solutions
When working with reclaimed brick flooring, you may face issues like matching the original bricks, uneven thickness, and dealing with moisture problems. Each challenge has practical solutions to help you achieve a durable, authentic floor.
Sourcing Consistency
Finding bricks that match in color and texture is one of the biggest challenges. Reclaimed bricks come from different buildings and eras, so you might see variations that affect the look of your floor. To manage this, buy from suppliers who hand-select bricks for consistency.
Bricks are carefully sorted to provide a close match in appearance and quality. You can ask for samples before ordering to ensure the colors and patterns fit your design. Mixing bricks from one trusted source reduces unexpected differences and helps the floor look balanced.
Be prepared to accept some natural variations, which add character without overwhelming the tile layout.
Thickness Variations
Reclaimed bricks often vary in thickness because of their age and wear. This can result in an uneven surface after installation, which might become a tripping hazard or cause grout issues. To handle this, your installer should measure and grade bricks, placing thicker bricks where needed for balance.
In some cases, thin brick veneer might be a better option if you want a more uniform surface without full thickness bricks. We offer bricks sorted by size or thickness, making it easier for your flooring professional to create a smooth, even surface. Proper preparation and skilled laying will prevent long-term problems caused by thickness differences.
Moisture and Humidity Concerns
Bricks are porous, so they absorb moisture, which may lead to mold or weakening over time if exposed to high humidity. This is especially important in damp areas like basements or kitchens. To reduce moisture risk, seal the brick floor with a high-quality, breathable sealant designed for reclaimed materials.
This helps block water but allows the brick to “breathe,” avoiding damage. Ensure the subfloor is dry and stable before installing. Good ventilation in your space will protect the bricks from excess humidity. Regular cleaning and maintenance keep moisture buildup from causing stains or mold.
Crafting Floors With Heritage and Strength
Reclaimed brick flooring captures the essence of craftsmanship while providing long-term durability and beauty. Each tile reflects generations of building tradition, offering warmth, resilience, and sustainability for both historic and modern interiors.
New Orleans Brick & Stone continues that legacy by sourcing and preparing authentic reclaimed brick from century-old structures. Our commitment to fast shipping and expert selection ensures you receive materials that honor both heritage and modern standards.
Bring the character of the past into your home. Contact us today to source reclaimed brick flooring that combines timeless beauty, sustainability, and Southern craftsmanship.
Frequently Asked Questions
Reclaimed brick flooring offers unique character and durable performance. You should think about proper installation methods, tile selection, outdoor use, upkeep, durability, and cost when considering it for your home.
How do I properly install reclaimed brick flooring?
Start by preparing a clean, level surface. Use a thinset mortar designed for brick tiles to ensure strong adhesion. Lay the bricks carefully, leaving consistent grout lines. After setting, seal the bricks with a penetrating sealer to protect against stains and moisture.
What should I consider when choosing reclaimed brick tiles for my home?
Look for bricks with consistent thickness and minimal damage. Consider the color and texture to match your design goals. Source from trusted suppliers like New Orleans Brick & Stone to ensure authentic, hand-selected reclaimed bricks with historic character.
Can reclaimed brick flooring be used in outdoor settings?
Yes, reclaimed brick can work outside if properly sealed and installed on a stable base. It resists weather when maintained well. In exposed areas, choose bricks with good durability and avoid overly worn or fragile pieces.
What maintenance is required to keep reclaimed brick flooring in good condition?
Sweep regularly to remove dirt and grit. Clean spills quickly with a mild detergent. Reapply sealer every few years to maintain protection. Avoid harsh chemicals that may damage the brick’s surface.
How does the durability of reclaimed brick veneer compare to traditional brick flooring?
Reclaimed brick veneer is thinner and lighter but still strong for walls and light-use floors. Traditional solid brick flooring offers greater toughness under heavy traffic. Your choice depends on the space and how much weight or wear the floor will see.
What are the cost benefits of choosing reclaimed brick flooring over new materials?
Reclaimed bricks often cost more upfront due to the labor to salvage and prepare them. You may save money over time by avoiding pricey new materials and by choosing bricks with lasting quality. New Orleans Brick & Stone offers competitive pricing without sacrificing authenticity or speed. This helps you keep your project on budget.
