What is Waalformaat? Brick dimensions explained

What is Waalformaat?

Waalformaat is one of the best-known brick sizes in the Netherlands. A Waalformaat brick measures approximately 21 x 10 x 5 centimetres, or 210 x 100 x 50 millimetres.

These dimensions are a guide, not a guarantee for every brick. The precise size can vary with the manufacturer, the period in which the bricks were made and the particular batch.

With reclaimed bricks, this distinction matters especially. Historical bricks were not always produced to the same consistent dimensions as modern bricks. A batch described as Waalformaat can therefore differ by a few millimetres, or sometimes more. Always check the actual measurements of the bricks you intend to use.

What are the dimensions of a Waalformaat brick?

As a general guide, a Waalformaat brick is approximately:

• 210 mm long
• 100 mm wide
• 50 mm high

These are approximate dimensions. In particular, reclaimed masonry bricks can vary in length, width and height. The name of the format tells you broadly what to expect, but does not replace measuring the batch itself.

For more information about different sizes, see our explanation of brick dimensions.

Why is it called Waalformaat?

The name Waalformaat comes from the history of Dutch brick production. It became an established name for a widely used brick size.

For purchasing bricks or matching existing masonry, however, the name alone is not enough. Two batches both described as Waalformaat can still differ in their actual dimensions, colour, texture and age. Those differences are important when restoring a wall or adding an extension.

How many Waalformaat bricks do you need per square metre?

The number depends on the actual size of the bricks and the width of the joints. With bricks approximately 210 mm long and 50 mm high, a half-brick-thick facing wall may require around 75 bricks per square metre.

This is an example, not a fixed quantity for every Waalformaat brick. A small difference in brick height or joint width changes the number required. Calculate the quantity using the actual batch and the joints planned for your project.

What is the difference between Waalformaat and dikformaat?

Dikformaat bricks are generally taller than Waalformaat bricks. With a similar brick length, their greater height means fewer courses are needed to build the same height of wall. This also gives the facade a different visual rhythm.

The exact dimensions of both formats can vary between products and historical batches. When matching existing brickwork, compare the actual measurements rather than relying only on the format name.

Is a Waalformaat brick always handmade?

No. Waalformaat describes the size of a brick, while handmade describes how it was produced and the resulting appearance. A brick can be both handmade and Waalformaat, but the terms do not mean the same thing.

Moulded bricks can also be made in this format. Equally, handmade bricks are available in other sizes.

Read more about the different types of bricks or view our handmade bricks.

Waalformaat in reclaimed brickwork

For a restoration or extension, matching the length and height of the existing bricks is important. Colour, surface texture, firing differences and signs of wear also affect how well the new work blends in.

A difference of just a few millimetres may become noticeable over many courses of brickwork. Measure several bricks in the existing wall so you have a representative picture of their size, rather than using a single brick as your reference.

Which brick bonds suit Waalformaat?

Waalformaat bricks can be used in many different bonds. Stretcher bond is a common choice, but traditional patterns combining headers and stretchers are also possible.

The appropriate bond depends on the pattern you want, the construction of the wall and the bricks available. A bond must work in practice as well as look right.

Our guide to types of brick bond explains the main options.

How do you measure existing Waalformaat brickwork?

Measure several bricks in the existing wall and take the joints into account. Individual reclaimed bricks may differ, and joints make up part of the overall dimensions of the masonry.

Measuring a number of bricks and their joints together allows you to calculate an average. This gives a more reliable basis for finding a suitable match than measuring only one brick.

Buying reclaimed Waalformaat bricks

When choosing a batch, compare the actual dimensions, colour, surface, sorting and available quantity. A format name on its own does not tell you whether the bricks are right for your project.

Browse our reclaimed masonry bricks or take a look at our projects for examples of their use. Our guide to building an authentic wall with reclaimed bricks explains what else to consider when laying them.

Frequently asked questions about Waalformaat

How big is a Waalformaat brick?

A Waalformaat brick is approximately 210 x 100 x 50 mm. Actual dimensions can vary, especially with reclaimed bricks.

How many Waalformaat bricks are needed per square metre?

Around 75 bricks per square metre can be a useful rough guide for some Waalformaat brickwork. The actual quantity depends on the dimensions of the batch and the width of the joints.

Is Waalformaat the same as handmade?

No. Waalformaat is a size designation. Handmade describes the production method. A brick can be both, but one term does not automatically imply the other.

Why do old Waalformaat bricks vary in size?

Historical production methods and wear can cause differences in size. Measure several bricks from the batch to establish the actual dimensions.