There is something special about old brickwork and using reclaimed bricks for your project. They have a certain character and depth that new bricks cannot offer; we call this patina. Patina is the beauty that comes with age and exposure. This could include the softened surface of the bricks, the slight discolouration or the blend of colours that appear with weathering. With reclaimed bricks, patina is what keeps the authenticity of a project for your home.ย
Throughout this blog, we will explore what patina really is, how it forms, why it matters and how you can appreciate it when choosing reclaimed bricks for your home compared to choosing new bricks for a new build or extension.
Patina
The word patina over time has come to refer to the natural surface changes that occur to many materials, including bricks. When it comes to reclaimed bricks, patina refers to the visual character that develops throughout the life of the brick. It includes discolouration, surface erosion and in some cases traces of old mortar left over on the brick that provides the authentic and weathered look for reclaimed bricks.ย
How Does Brick Patina Develop?
- Weather and climate โ Frost, wind, rain and sunlight all play a part in shaping a brickโs surface. In the UK with wetter climates, bricks absorb more moisture, having an effect on the surface of the brick, giving them a slightly weathered look. Over decades, this weathering is also caused by frost, and in some cases, sunlight creates that old look and texture to the brick which we associate with older buildings. This is what many people find appealing when it comes to dealing with our choice of reclaimed bricks.
- Pollution โ In larger cities like Greater London, old brickwork often shows traces of soot, smoke or pollution. These factors often contribute to the depth and character of reclaimed bricks and help them stand out compared to any form of new bricks.
- Mortar residue โ When walls are demolished, some of the old mortar stays attached to the brick surface. This residue adds visual variety to each different reclaimed brick, making each brick unique.
Why Patina Matters?
Here are the reasons why patina has an effect and why it matters in comparison to reclaimed bricks:
- Authenticity โ Patina allows new work to be able to blend into its surroundings or already existing buildings. With new bricks, it breaks the character and authentic look of an old building, which is why with reclaimed bricks, you can keep that authenticity whilst still having a new building built.ย
- Aesthetic โ Patina adds visual depth to the bricks. The varied tones, textures and slight imperfections create that natural beauty that comes with reclaimed bricks, and in many cases, is what people favour over new bricks.
- Unique โ Every reclaimed brick is one of a kind. Using reclaimed bricks means that your project is unique and will not look identical to anyone elseโs home. Its patina is formed by its history.
- History โ Patina reminds us that buildings have lives. When you use reclaimed bricks for a new project, you are preserving the life and history of the brick by reusing it.
How to Choose Reclaimed Bricks with Beautiful Patina?
- See them in person โ Photos do not always do justice to the details of patina. If possible, visit your supplierโs yard and view the bricks under natural light, so you can get the best view of what we have to offer.ย
- Ask about the bricks’ origin โ The story and character behind reclaimed bricks often explain their patina. If you are looking for a specific style of reclaimed bricks, it can be difficult as they vary so much, but if you know their origin, you can try and match as best as possible.
- Blend batches โ When laying reclaimed bricks, use bricks from different pallets. This helps distribute variations evenly, keeping that more natural look across your whole project.
Preserving The Patina
Most suppliers clean and sort their bricks before they are sold again, removing excess mortar while keeping the natural patina intact so that they keep their authenticity and character. When you receive your reclaimed bricks for your project, you should avoid any harsh cleaning methods, which could strip away the character from the bricks. When cleaning, the aim is not to make the bricks look clean, but rather to preserve their aged charm and character.ย
Why Patina Adds Property Value?
When potential future buyers see an aged wall, built from reclaimed bricks, they instantly associate it with the quality and history of the existing building. Patina gives the feeling that the building has already been there for years. Using reclaimed bricks helps keep the authenticity of an older building and helps to match the brickwork to your already existing property.
Conclusion
Overall, buying and choosing reclaimed bricks is simple once you know what you are looking for. You have to find the balance between appearance, quality and practicality. As well as choosing a supplier who understands the history of where the bricks have come from. After going through this blog and understanding brick patina and how reclaimed bricks work so perfectly for a home, you can make the choice to use reclaimed bricks to preserve history and keep the authentic look of your home.
If you wish to get in contact today, please head to our website:
https://consumer-advisory.co.uk/enquire-now/, where we offer the highest quality of reclaimed bricks.
Whether you require 1000 or 20,000 bricks, we hold the largest reclamation brick stock in Southeast England. Daily deliveries available in all parts of Greater London and the Home Counties.
Please fill out the enquiry form with your requirements. We will then pass this on to our accredited suppliers.
