So, you're looking for bricks. Maybe you're having an extension done to an old property, overseeing a development in an area of architectural beauty or you want your self-build to have a very particular style.
Handmade bricks might be exactly what you need. They certainly sound fancy. But what are they?
We've got everything you need to know right here, so you can decide whether they're right for you.
Of course, if you're already sold on the idea of using handmade bricks in your build, make sure you check out our selection in our brick library.
Shop handmadeWhat are handmade bricks?
Handmade bricks aren't completely hand-crafted. The name refers to the fact that the bricks are hand thrown into sanded moulds and no machines are used to compact or cut them.
As a result of this, wavy creases and marks appear on the face of a brick, a unique characteristic which cannot be replicated by a machine. They can also be made in whatever size the manufacturer wants them to be made. That could be in the older imperial size, the modern metric size or something else entirely.
After sitting in the moulds, they are left to dry in a controlled environment, allowing the water in the clay to evaporate.
They can be made to any specification the buyer wants. Different blends, different clay - and, of course, different shapes and sizes
The firing process
After this, they are fired in a kiln. Manufacturers of handmade bricks today will usually use modern kilns which allow for greater consistency in the bricks. However, some places still use traditional tunnel kilns for the complete historical effect.
Handmade bricks are usually removed from the kiln by hand as well. As much as the inconsistencies of handmade brick is one of the appeals, the manufacturers still want to make sure that a certain level of quality is maintained. Some will then be picked for different blends and colouring.
Why choose handmade?
While machine-made bricks are the go-to option for new buildings today, handmade bricks are increasingly popular in a number of scenarios.
Brick matching
If your property is over a certain age, it's likely that your bricks are a different size to what is now available on the market. To build an extension on these properties, you'll want bricks that are as similar as possible to the original build.
One way of doing this is by getting the bricks handmade to match the spec of the original. This way you don't have to search high and low for reclaimed bricks in the hope that you'll find an exact match.
If you do want to match your existing bricks with what's already out there, our Brick Matching service is just what you need.
Conservation
Sometimes handmade bricks are used for heritage and conservation projects. Where there is a particular listed or heritage building that needs renovating, handmade bricks are used to exactly replicate the original look.
Aesthetic
Many people simply like the rustic character that handmade bricks provide. The creases, sandy finish and irregularities are often all part of the appeal.
Whether it's your own self build or part of a development it may be that you want the exterior to be made with handmade bricks. And the beauty of them is, even though they may look old you can still have them made in metric sizes, ensuring the building is future proof and efficient.
Pros and cons
So, what are the pros and cons, you ask? They're obviously not right for everybody. To keep a balanced argument here's some things to consider:
The pros...
⦿ They can be made to any specification the buyer wants. Different blends, different clay - and, of course, different shapes and sizes.
⦿ They're a great alternative when you can't find the reclaimed bricks you want.
⦿ You can get them made in imperial sizes if that's what you need.
⦿ You can get them made to look old but keep the metric sizing if you're looking to match a brick style in your area.
The cons...
⦿ Their bespoke nature understandably means they can be a more expensive option.
⦿ They take longer to make, so you might have to factor that into your building process.
⦿ They have inconsistent characteristics and will stand out against more modern buildings.
We're here for you
Handmade bricks are a great option for the right project. And if you're wondering how to get hold of some for yourself, you're in the right place.
We can get handmade bricks from some of the best manufacturers in the country and our expert team is standing by to help you get what you need at the right price. Talk to us to find out how we can help.
