There are many differences between new bricks and reclaimed bricks when it comes to what you may prefer for your project. Both of these are great choices for any project, whether that be a simple garden wall or a full extension or renovation. In this blog, we will take a look at what makes modern bricks so different from more historical reclaimed bricks. As well as why, in some cases, reclaimed bricks are favoured and how the differences between the two can have an effect on the architecture and sustainability of a building.ย
New Bricks
New bricks are manufactured in large factories, which in return are using advanced machinery and controlled processes. They are designed to meet all modern building standards, prioritising consistency and efficiency across all bricks that are made. They are all a uniform shape and size and can all be made the same colour, whilst being able to produce a high quantity at a fast pace.
Reclaimed Bricks
These are salvaged from old historical buildings such as Victorian and Edwardian houses or other old factories. Traditionally, these were often made by hand, meaning that they can have unique characteristics which many people find appealing for their property. They can have slight variations in shape, size and colour. They also hold a patina that has developed over decades of exposure to different weather conditions. This is what makes them so appealing to many homeowners, as it allows them to make a new extension or building look like it has always belonged there.ย
Thereโs also an emotional element; old, reclaimed bricks carry a sense of nostalgia and historic charm. They remind us of craftsmanship, of buildings that have stood for generations. New bricks, while practical, donโt have the same feeling. This is why reclaimed bricks are often chosen for projects where atmosphere matters. Projects like garden walls, fireplaces, or heritage restorations.ย
Differences in Appearance
- Colour โ New bricks tend to be uniform, with clearer and more sharper colours in comparison to older reclaimed bricks. Reclaimed bricks often offer warm, varied toned colours like red, brown or orange. The colour within reclaimed bricks can vary and change depending on how much they have been exposed to weathering.
- Texture โ Reclaimed bricks tend to be rougher and have a more weathered surface. New bricks are smoother, with a crisp finish to them as they have not been used before unlike reclaimed bricks.
- Character โ Older bricks often show signs of age. This could be through chips, any marks or irregularities that give them a historic charm. On the other hand, new bricks look pristine and untouched.ย
Strength and Durabilityย
In comparison to all of the different factors that we will go through in this blog, the strength and durability of both new and reclaimed bricks arenโt too different. Most commonly, new bricks are often stronger than older reclaimed bricks. However, many people will argue that reclaimed bricks have already proved themselves to be strong and durable for other buildings. The weathered surfaces of reclaimed bricks show resilience. In some cases, when they are reused, they can last just as long as new bricks.ย
Environmental Impact
- New Bricks โ While modern factories have evolved and are more efficient than ever before, the process of producing new bricks does still consume energy and resources.
- Reclaimed Bricks โ By salvaging and reusing reclaimed bricks, we are reducing waste and avoiding all energy costs of manufacturing new materials.ย
Reclaimed bricks do offer a greener alternative in comparison to new bricks, despite new bricks perhaps being preferred more often compared to reclaimed bricks.
The Future of Bricks
Looking forward, the differences between new bricks and older reclaimed bricks will continue to matter, depending on what your project is. As sustainability becomes more important and is what many customers require from bricks, reclaimed bricks may see a greater demand in comparison to new bricks. Alternatively, new bricks will evolve in terms of greener production methods to try to match the environmental benefits that reclaimed bricks offer. Together, they allow us to preserve history while continuing to build for the future.
Conclusion
Overall, both reclaimed bricks and new bricks are great choices for your project. With new bricks, they have a uniform appearance and a more pristine character. Although they may not be very beneficial to the environment in how they are made, they are usually made to be stronger and more durable. On the other hand, reclaimed bricks offer a varied and weathered look that many people find appealing for their project, as it allows them to blend in with other existing buildings. Here at Consumer Advisory, we believe that both type of bricks have their place, new bricks are essential for modern construction, while older reclaimed bricks bring charm and history to a project. There is no right answer in what type of bricks you should choose; it fully depends on your project, your values and the story behind your building.
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.
