Discover the Advantages of Reclaimed Bricks
When it comes to choosing bricks for your construction or renovation project, you might wonder why reclaimed bricks are a popular choice. The answer lies in their unique appeal and environmental benefits. Let's delve into the top reasons why more people are opting for reclaimed antique bricks:
Authentic Appearance: The primary reason many opt for reclaimed antique bricks is the unparalleled charm they bring. These bricks boast a patina and texture that have evolved over a century, impossible to replicate successfully. Whether you want to infuse your home with a historical touch or ensure a period-correct restoration, there are no substitutes for the authenticity of reclaimed bricks.
Eco-Friendly Choice: In an era marked by a growing climate crisis, the construction industry's role is pivotal. Using reclaimed building materials, like bricks, is an effective way to lower your carbon footprint and costs. With the rising prices of new materials due to the challenges posed by Covid-19, opting for reclaimed bricks not only benefits the environment but also keeps more money in your pocket, allowing your projects to flourish.
Handmade vs. Machine-Made: Brick making comes in two distinct methods: handmade and machine-made. Before the industrial revolution, artisans crafted bricks individually, resulting in unique appearances. Conversely, machined bricks offer uniformity due to their mass production. If your project seeks to capture the essence of the Victorian era or earlier, handmade antique bricks are the way to go.
Diverse Colors: Reclaimed bricks come in various colors, depending on the clay used and their region of origin. Our collection of bricks, reclaimed from the Midwest and Southwest of the United States, offers a rich palette of reds, oranges, yellows, greys, salmon, and creams.
Unlock the Unique Charm of Reclaimed Bricks
Beyond historical accuracy and eco-friendliness, reclaimed bricks offer age and individuality, piece by piece. They impart a distinctive and character-filled look to your project, infusing it with meaningful history. The patina of time adds a layer of depth and intrigue often absent in new materials.
Readily Available Across the United States
Wondering if reclaimed bricks are easily accessible in the United States? Absolutely! The use of bricks salvaged from pre-1920s buildings has become a sought-after aesthetic for both interior and exterior projects. As demand surges, and due to the constraints of new brick manufacturing, the popularity of reclaimed bricks is on the rise. At New Orleans Brick & Stone, we've recognized the value of old bricks for the past four decades. Our reclamation teams have scoured the U.S., handpicking the finest materials to ensure your project's success.
Why Choose Authentic Reclaimed Brick vs. Tumbled New Brick
One key distinction between antique bricks and tumbled new bricks lies in their appearance. Reclaimed bricks from demolished structures exhibit a unique patina and characteristics that new brick manufacturers attempt to mimic by tumbling new bricks in a drum. While tumbled bricks offer more character than new ones, they still fall short of the authentic appeal of antique bricks.
Pictured below is an example of authentic reclaimed brick vs tumbled new brick.
RECLAIMED
TUMBLED
You can see that even when new bricks are tumbled, a certain uniformity persists. The distinctive patina of reclaimed bricks includes traces of old paint and mortar, the weathered texture of a century or more, and the historical significance that truly sets them apart.