Need Help Matching a Brick?

We are fully aware brick matching can be a very stressful process. That's why here at Reclaimed Brick Company we offer a Free Brick Matching Service. With our years of experience, we can quickly provide you with a sample to match your existing building. Simply email over your brick requirements, including a photo of your existing bricks, and a member of our team will be in touch.

Once the team have successfully matched your brick we can send out brick samples, visit the yard or place an order.

When matching bricks in the UK, it's essential to consider the type of brick, the region it originates from, and its colour, texture, and size. Reclaimed bricks, such as those from traditional brickworks, often offer unique characteristics that are challenging to replicate with modern bricks. To ensure a seamless match, it’s best to consult with a supplier specialising in reclaimed bricks, who can offer expert advice and a variety of options. For new builds, some manufacturers offer reproduction bricks that replicate historical styles and sizes, ensuring compatibility with existing structures.

The difference between imperial and metric brick sizes plays an important role in both the aesthetics and practicality of construction. Imperial bricks, typically used in older buildings, measure 3 inches by 9 inches by 4.5 inches, providing a larger and more robust appearance. In contrast, modern metric bricks have a standardized size of 65mm high, 215mm long and 102.5mm wide, making them more uniform and easier to work with for contemporary building practices. The switch from imperial to metric bricks happened over time due to standardisation, but the original imperial bricks continue to be sought after in renovation projects.

Imperial bricks have distinct qualities that make them popular in restoration and conservation projects. Their larger size gives them an imposing and traditional look, which is especially valued in the restoration of historic buildings. As they were often made by hand, imperial bricks tend to have a more textured, characterful appearance, making them ideal for projects requiring authenticity and charm. Many homeowners and builders prefer to use these older bricks in projects where the goal is to maintain the integrity and style of traditional construction. Common Imperial Brick sizes are 75mm x 230mm x 110mm and 68mm x 228mm x 108mm.

Metric bricks measure 65mm x 215mm x 102.5mm, they are designed to be consistent in size and often made by machines, though there are a small number of genuine handmade metric bricks on the market. Their smaller dimensions allow for more efficient transportation and are easier to handle for the bricklayer. The standardised size also simplifies building techniques and reduces the likelihood of gaps or inconsistencies in the brickwork. Despite this, the demand for imperial bricks continues, especially in areas where heritage and historical accuracy are paramount, such as barn conversions, period homes, and conservation areas.