How to identify an old or reclaimed brick

Old and reclaimed bricks can be harder to identify than modern products because years of weathering, staining, cleaning and reuse can change their appearance. Careful photographs and measurements can still provide useful clues.

Look at the brick's surface

Examine the texture, grain, sand coating, colour variation and firing characteristics. Handmade-looking surfaces may show more irregularity, while other manufacturing methods can leave more consistent patterns.

Check the size

Measure length, width and height in millimetres. Size can help separate different brick ranges that have similar colours or textures. Do not assume that an older brick follows the dimensions of a modern product.

Look for frogs and maker marks

Photograph the entire frog or recessed area if the brick has one. Letters, numbers, symbols and mould marks can be particularly useful. The surrounding shape is important, so avoid taking only a tightly cropped picture of the lettering.

Consider weathering

Exposure to rain, frost, pollution, paint, mortar staining and cleaning can alter the face of a brick. A heavily weathered red brick, for example, may no longer resemble a new example of the same product.

Can a reclaimed brick be identified exactly?

Not always. A photograph may narrow the possibilities without proving the original manufacturer, product code or date. For important repair or conservation work, compare a physical sample and seek specialist advice where necessary.

Use Find My Brick

Upload your clearest photograph and add measurements if you know them. Find My Brick can suggest close UK catalogue matches to help you research what the brick may be and what could be suitable as a replacement.