FindMyBrick · Brick identification guide

How to Identify a Brick from a Photo

Trying to match an existing brick for a repair, extension or renovation? A clear photograph is a useful starting point, but the best match comes from combining appearance, measurements and physical checks.

Important: A photo-based match is an identification aid, not a guarantee of the exact manufacturer, product code or colour. Always compare a physical sample before ordering a large quantity.

1. Take a useful photograph

Good photographs show the brick face clearly and reduce the chance of confusing similar products.

Photograph the brick in daylight where possible.
Fill most of the image with two to four brick faces.
Keep the camera straight-on rather than at a steep angle.
Avoid flash glare, deep shadows and heavy filters.
Include the mortar joints and brick edges if they help show the size.
Look for frogs, stamps, letters or manufacturer marks and photograph them separately.

2. Record the brick's measurements

Measure a clean, representative brick rather than relying only on an online description. Record the three dimensions in millimetres:

LengthThe long face-to-face dimension.

WidthThe depth of the brick from front to back.

HeightThe vertical dimension when the brick is laid normally.

Joint sizeRecord the approximate mortar joint as well; it can affect how the brickwork appears.

Older, handmade and weathered bricks may vary in size. If several bricks are available, measure more than one and note the range.

3. Compare appearance carefully

ColourIs it red, orange, brown, buff, grey or multi-coloured? Check in natural light.

TextureLook for smooth, sanded, wirecut, pressed, handmade-looking or heavily weathered surfaces.

EdgesAre the arrises sharp and regular, or soft, irregular and rounded?

Firing detailsLook for dark patches, speckling, flashes, inclusions and surface marks.

4. Consider the building and location

The age and location of the property can narrow the search, but they should not be treated as proof of a manufacturer. Note:

Approximate age of the building.
Whether the brick is on a house, boundary wall, extension or outbuilding.
The region where the property was built.
Whether the brickwork is original or part of a later repair.
Any visible maker's mark or unusual format.

5. Check a physical sample before buying

Two bricks can look very similar on a screen but differ noticeably when placed next to each other. Before ordering:

Request a sample or obtain one from a local merchant.
Compare it beside the existing brick in the same light.
Check dimensions, texture, colour variation and edge profile.
Ask the supplier about batch variation and availability.
Confirm suitability with the builder or relevant professional where the project requires it.

Use FindMyBrick

Upload a clear photograph to receive suggested matches from the UK brick catalogue. Add measurements when you have them, and use the results as a shortlist for further checking.

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