How to match a replacement brick

Replacing one or more bricks is easier when you compare the existing brick carefully before ordering. A close visual match is useful, but dimensions, texture and manufacturing details matter too.

1. Photograph the existing brick

Take a clear close-up in even daylight. Show the brick face, edges and surrounding brickwork. Photograph any frog, perforation, stamp or maker's mark separately.

2. Check the dimensions

Measure length, width and height in millimetres if possible. Existing UK brickwork can contain bricks of different ages and sizes, so measurements are an important way to rule out visually similar products.

3. Compare colour and texture

Look beyond the basic colour. Compare the surface texture, sand coating, grain, speckling, firing variation and edge profile. Weathering can make an old brick look quite different from a new example of the same product.

4. Check frogs and markings

A frog or maker's mark can provide useful clues about a brick's manufacturer or product family. Record the complete shape and any lettering rather than relying on a cropped detail.

Matching bricks for an extension

For an extension, appearance matters because a new brick can stand out against weathered existing brickwork. Consider the existing wall's colour variation and texture as well as the nominal product colour. If the original brick is discontinued, a close alternative may be the practical option.

Matching bricks for repairs

For a small repair, the closest available match is usually preferable to choosing a brick based solely on a similar colour name. Check dimensions and surface characteristics before buying.

Use Find My Brick to narrow the search

Upload a clear photo to Find My Brick and, if known, add the brick's length, width and height. The tool can help narrow down close UK catalogue matches for further checking.