Everything you need to know about bricks

Typically made from clay, shale or concrete, bricks are one of the oldest and most widely used building materials and are a great choice due to their durability and versatility. 

Here, we’re going to focus on clay bricks. These are typically produced by extracting clay, which is then cleaned, mixed, and shaped into rectangular moulds. Once formed, the bricks are dried to remove moisture before being fired in a kiln at high temperatures. 

This firing process hardens the brick, giving it strength and weather resistance. The colour and texture of the finished brick are influenced by the type of clay used, the firing temperature, and any added mineral content.

What type of bricks are available?

There are several main types of bricks, each designed for specific applications. Engineering bricks, for example, are dense and strong, offering high compressive strength and low water absorption. These are typically used in structural or below-ground applications such as foundations, retaining walls, and damp-proof courses.

Concrete bricks are manufactured for consistency and cost efficiency and are widely used in modern builds and internal applications. Common bricks, on the other hand, are best used where aesthetics aren’t quite as important, for example, internal walls that will be plastered. 

Reclaimed bricks continue to grow in popularity. Salvaged from older buildings and reused, they help achieve a traditional, weathered appearance. These bricks do have an undeniable charm, but if your project requires a large quantity, consider a tumbled brick, which offers the retro look while still ensuring certainty of supply. 

We’re renowned for our facing bricks, and these are the most commonly used for external walls. They are designed to be both visually attractive and durable. We supply a huge range of facing bricks in a wide variety of colours and textures. You can explore the full range using our brick selector.

AAB's brick manufacturing process

With over 125 years of expertise, we know a thing or two about premium bricks. We supply a wide range and use many manufacturing methods, such as:

Extruded or wirecut bricks

Extruded bricks are made by pushing clay through a mould and cutting it to size with wires. This process creates bricks with a consistent shape, size, and finish, as you’ll see on the Ceres Texture Grey Wirecut and other products from the range. 

Handmade bricks

We supply a broad range of handmade bricks. Ever popular, these are individually moulded by hand, giving them a unique appearance with natural variations in texture and colour. They are often used for traditional and heritage-style projects. 

Retro/tumbled bricks

Tumbled bricks are mechanically aged after firing to create a weathered, reclaimed look. The Rijaswaard Baksteen Retro Range is available in several stunning shades, ideal for adding character to new-build developments.

Stock bricks

Our Rijswaard Prima range offers our largest ever range of quality stock bricks. Stock bricks are formed in sand-coated moulds, which gives them a distinctive textured surface. They are a popular choice for traditional UK-based construction. 

What size bricks are available?

Brick sizes can vary depending on region, manufacturer, and intended use, but there are some standard dimensions commonly used in the UK.

The most typical modern UK brick size is approximately 215mm x 102.5mm x 65mm. This is our standard size at AAB. It is widely used in general construction and allows for consistent mortar jointing.

As well as the standard UK brick size, we also offer a UK-based cutting service and a range of brick specials. Brick specials are bricks that have been altered from their original size or shape and can serve both decorative and functional purposes.

What brick colours and finishes are available?

This is an incredibly exciting time for modern architecture. You need only look at our projects to see the possibilities that come with bricks, and technical advances mean that you do not need to compromise on quality or durability. 

Bricks come in a wide range of colours, commonly red, brown, grey, black, and buff. While red bricks are often associated with traditional architecture, there are no strict rules when it comes to modern design. Architects and developers use a variety of brick colours to achieve different aesthetic goals, so any shade can work in the right context. To explore our full range of colours, take a look at our brick selector. 

Another important consideration when choosing bricks for your project is texture. The texture of a brick can significantly influence the character of a building, affecting how it catches the light, creates shadow, and contributes to the overall aesthetic.

Brick textures explained

Smooth bricks provide a clean, uniform appearance that is often associated with contemporary architecture. At the other end of the spectrum, heavy crease bricks feature pronounced surface irregularities and folds, creating a more rustic and traditional look. Light crease bricks, on the other hand, offer a similar character but with a softer, more subtle texture.

Sand faced bricks have a lightly textured finish created by applying sand during the manufacturing process, adding depth and visual interest without appearing overly rugged. Bricks with subtle undulations feature gentle surface variations that bring warmth and character while maintaining a relatively refined appearance.

And, for projects seeking a sense of age and authenticity, reclaimed-style bricks replicate the weathered textures and imperfections found in older brickwork. These textured finishes are particularly popular in heritage-inspired developments, renovations, and designs that aim to create a more established feel.

The key takeaway is that colour and texture play a major role in the overall appearance of a building, helping to define its character, style, and architectural identity.

With hundreds of colours, textures, and finishes available, choosing the right brick can feel overwhelming. Whether you're working on a housing development, commercial scheme, self-build, or restoration project, our team can help.

Use our Brick Selector to explore the range, request samples, and find the ideal brick for your next project. If you'd like expert advice, get in touch with our team today.