What Colour Bricks Are Used In My Area?

When you're thinking about bricks for your next project, you might be surprised to learn that they don't all come in just one colour.

If you take a trip around the UK, you will notice that different regions have their own distinct shades of bricks. Some areas have a higher proportion of certain colours due to local materials and historical preferences.

If you're building a home, it's important to understand if the brick colour matters. Additionally, if you're keen to keep things local, you'll want to know what typical brick colours are in your area.

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Material matters more than you think

Many people assume that bricks in the UK come in just a few basic colours and that every brick is the same. However, this couldn't be further from the truth. Bricks are available in a wide variety of colours, and several factors affect their appearance. The main factors are the type of clay used, the type of sand and minerals applied, and the conditions inside the kiln during firing.

Firstly, the type of clay used in brick-making determines the colour of the brick. The colour you would see if you cut a brick in half—its core colour—comes directly from the clay used. Secondly, the surface treatments play a significant role in the final look of the brick. Engobes, sand, and mineral pigments are often added to give the brick a specific tone or texture.

Finally, the atmosphere inside the kiln can affect the colour of the brick. The temperature inside the kiln, combined with the chemical reactions that happen during firing, creates different colour variations.

A variety of shades

Bricks in the UK typically fall into four main categories: reds, buffs, browns, and blacks/blues. Each of these categories has many different shades, but the colours generally fall into these groups.

Blacks and blues are often made with tougher clays and a higher firing temperature, while reds are usually created with softer clays. Buff bricks, which are commonly light or yellowish, are frequently used in urban environments like London.

UK residential street in the north of England

Why does colour matter?

Bricks are not just a building material; they are a reflection of the environment around them. Historically, the colour of bricks was determined by the local clay available, and this is why certain regions have distinct brick colours.

Local clay was used because transportation methods were not as advanced as they are today. The older brick buildings you see in your area likely reflect the geological characteristics of the land. In earlier centuries, when manufacturing methods were less refined, the colour of bricks was even more closely tied to the local soil and clay types.

Over time, manufacturing techniques improved, allowing for a broader variety of colours. The repeal of the brick tax in 1850 was a turning point for the industry. With fewer restrictions, brickmakers could experiment with new methods of mixing and firing clays, producing a wider range of colours and stronger, more durable bricks. The use of blended clays and better firing techniques helped create consistent colours, and deeper clays allowed for the production of darker, more solid engineering bricks.

Despite the improvements in brick production, many areas still prefer to use locally sourced clay. Not only does it help maintain a connection to the area's heritage, but it’s also a more economical choice.

The older brick buildings you see in your area likely reflect the geological characteristics of the land

Regional colour variations in the UK

The colour of bricks in the UK varies by region due to the type of clay used in each area. Let’s take a look at some of the more distinct regional variations.

⦿ London: The London Stock brick is perhaps the most famous type of brick, with a light yellow tone that fades to a darker buff over time. This brick was extensively used in the late 18th and 19th centuries and remains a symbol of the city. London Stock bricks were popular because they resembled stone, making them an ideal material for townhouses and city buildings.
⦿ Midlands: The Midlands, especially counties like Staffordshire, are known for their red and orange bricks. Staffordshire, in particular, is famous for producing deep red bricks and the darker Staffordshire blue bricks. These bricks were produced using Etrurian marl clay, which has a unique colour when fired at high temperatures.
⦿ South-East: In areas like Sussex and Kent, the local clays produce vivid red bricks. Known as “Soft Red” bricks, these are often associated with Georgian and royal buildings. In Cambridgeshire, the region’s Gault clay creates distinctive white buffs, which are almost sandy in appearance.
⦿ Yorkshire: In the north of England, especially in former mining or industrial towns, bricks tend to be darker shades like grey or dark buff. These colours are a result of the clay used, but also reflect the environmental effects of the industrial era.

Bricks for the modern builder

As transportation improved, the restrictions on the use of local clays lessened. Today, you can find bricks from all over the UK in every corner of the country. Some colours, such as the classic orange wire-cut bricks, are found in new housing developments everywhere.

The colour of the brick you choose can affect the overall look and feel of your building. Bricks can range from deep, rich reds to bold blacks, to soft whites. The variety is vast, and each colour brings a different aesthetic. While the final colour is influenced by the raw materials and firing process, it’s the combination of these factors that gives brick its unique character.

Pink and blue doors on residential street in London

Planning permission and colour

In some areas, the colour of the brick can play a role in obtaining planning permission for your project. If the colour of your brick differs significantly from the surrounding area, you may encounter resistance from local authorities. This is particularly true in areas with a rich architectural history or where the local heritage is being carefully preserved.

However, in most areas, as long as the colours are harmonious with the surroundings, you shouldn’t face too many challenges. That said, if you’re building a custom home, you may want to make a bold statement with a unique brick colour.

What Colour Are The Bricks In My area?