What Are Imperial Bricks?

Imperial bricks were the standard brick size in the UK before the country adopted the metric system in the early 1970s. They typically measure around 68mm to 76mm in height x 228mm in length x 110mm depth or 3" x 9" x 4 1/4", although variations existed depending on the region and period of manufacture. Many heritage properties, Victorian terraces, Edwardian homes, and early 20th-century buildings were constructed entirely with imperial bricks.

Because these bricks are slightly larger than today’s metric versions, they create a distinctive coursing pattern and architectural appearance. This is why matching imperial brickwork with modern materials can be challenging.

What Sizes Are Imperial Bricks?

Available in a wide range of colours and styles, our brick slip tiles are suitable for both traditional and contemporary designs. With excellent heat resistance and simple installation, they’re perfect for feature walls, fireplace surrounds, kitchens, bathrooms, and more.

View our collections of Reclaimed Brick Slips and New Brick Slips below:

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Our exclusive range of easy-to-install Brick slip tiles, available as reclaimed and new brick slip wall tiles. These slim brick tiles are ideal for kitchens, fireplaces, bathrooms, feature walls, exterior façades, and commercial interiors. They replicate the authentic look of real brickwork while offering a lightweight and space-saving alternative to full bricks.

Our reclaimed brick slips are precision-cut from genuine old bricks salvaged across the UK. Their naturally worn edges and rich variation in hue bring rustic charm and historic character to any space. For a more uniform appearance, our new brick slips provide clean lines and consistent colouring — ideal for modern interiors with a heritage twist.

Available in a wide range of colours and styles, our brick slip tiles are suitable for both traditional and contemporary designs. With excellent heat resistance and simple installation, they’re perfect for feature walls, fireplace surrounds, kitchens, bathrooms, and more.

View our collections of Reclaimed Brick Slips and New Brick Slips below:

Imperial bricks form a significant part of Britain’s architectural heritage. Before the UK adopted the metric system in the early 1970s, all bricks were produced to imperial measurements, typically around 73mm in height, 228mm in length, and 108mm in width. These bricks were used in everything from Georgian townhouses and Victorian terraces to Edwardian homes and early 20th-century buildings, shaping the character of towns and cities across the country.

The origins of imperial sizing can be traced back centuries, with brick dimensions gradually evolving due to local practices, regional traditions, and government regulations. One key event that influenced brick sizes was the Brick Tax of 1784, which charged builders based on the number of bricks used rather than their weight. In response, brickmakers began producing larger bricks to reduce the overall number required, leaving a legacy of size variations that can still be seen in historic buildings today.

Imperial bricks were the standard right up until the 1970s, when the UK moved to metric sizing in line with European standards. The new metric brick, measuring 65mm in height, became the norm for modern construction. However, this shift created a challenge for anyone working on older properties. Using metric bricks alongside imperial ones leads to misaligned courses, visible size differences, and an inconsistent finish.

Today, reclaimed imperial bricks are highly sought after for renovations, extensions, and conservation projects. Their larger dimensions, combined with the unique patina and colour that only age can provide, make them essential for maintaining the authenticity of period properties. At the Reclaimed Brick Company, we specialise in sourcing and supplying these traditional bricks, helping to preserve the history and character of the UK’s built environment.

The difference between imperial bricks and metric bricks is an important consideration for builders, architects, and homeowners working on projects that involve older properties. While both types of bricks serve the same structural purpose, their sizes differ significantly, which can have a major impact on the look and finish of a building.

What are Imperial Bricks?

Imperial size bricks were the standard in the UK before the country adopted the metric system in the early 1970s. They typically measure around 73mm in height, although variations existed depending on the region and period of manufacture. Many heritage properties, Victorian terraces, Edwardian homes, and early 20th-century buildings were constructed entirely with imperial bricks.

Because these bricks are slightly larger than today’s metric versions, they create a distinctive coursing pattern and architectural appearance. This is why matching imperial brickwork with modern materials can be challenging.

What are Metric Bricks?

Following the shift to the metric system, the UK standardised brick dimensions to 65mm in height. These metric bricks are now used across almost all new construction projects. While smaller in height, metric bricks provide uniformity, allowing modern buildings to follow a consistent standard that simplifies manufacturing, supply, and construction.

Why the Difference Matters

When repairing or extending an older property built with imperial bricks, using metric bricks can create a noticeable misalignment in the coursing of the wall. Even a difference of just 8mm per brick can add up over several courses, leading to mismatched joints and an inconsistent finish.

This is why sourcing reclaimed imperial bricks is so important. They ensure a seamless match with existing walls, preserving both the structural integrity and the visual harmony of the property.

Choosing the Right Bricks for Your Project

At the Reclaimed Brick Company, we supply a wide range of reclaimed imperial bricks carefully salvaged from historic buildings across the UK. These bricks not only provide the correct size for heritage restorations and extensions but also come with the unique character, colour, and texture that only time can create. By choosing reclaimed imperial bricks, you can maintain the authenticity of traditional brickwork while also supporting sustainable construction practices.