What types of old bricks are there?

At Van Dillen Antieke Bouwmaterialen, we encounter various types of bricks during demolition and chiseling. But what types of bricks are actually out there? In this blog, we dive into the diverse world of bricks, facade bricks, and masonry bricks, so you know what the differences are and can use the right bricks for your project.

Types of bricks;

The world of old bricks is surprisingly diverse, with different types of facade bricks, each having its unique properties. The differences between the bricks often lie in the dimensions (the dimensions of old bricks are often different anyway), but there are also various types of bricks. Common types of bricks include:

• Waal format: This is the most commonly used brick in the Netherlands and is the most standard brick available. The dimensions are suitable for any project, measuring approximately 210 mm x 100 mm x 50 mm.
• Vecht format: This is another type of brick based on size. The vecht format has a broader look because it is slightly shorter than the Waal format. It was often used in the well-known brown-red/purple color in the past, but it is now only used to give an authentic appearance to a building with old bricks. The dimensions of the vecht format are 210 mm x 100 mm x 40 mm.
• Handmade bricks: These bricks were made in a special way by hand, with most of these old bricks produced before 1880. After that, production shifted to the slightly more uniform but still very authentically looking molded bricks. As the name suggests, handmade bricks were shaped by hand, resulting in beautiful veins and structure. The imperfections of the material are precisely the charm that gives it a lovely old appearance.
• Molded bricks: The old molded bricks are the successors of the handmade bricks and were produced by first sanding them and then pouring them into a mold. They were still hand-finished but were shaped and sized in a mold. This is where the name “sanded molded brick” comes from. They have been produced from 1880 to the present, but in the world of old building materials, these bricks can only be found clean up to the 1930s, as production then shifted to a new type of cement that cannot be chipped off the bricks.

What does an old brick cost?

An old brick is available from €60 per m² excluding VAT. Due to the many factors that can play a role in, for example, demolition, chiseling, and further work, prices can vary significantly. The scarcity of a brick also plays an important role in determining the price. We have set up a special category page for our inexpensive old bricks.

Can I use old bricks in a modern interior?

In recent decades, it has been frequently discovered how well modern construction and interiors go hand in hand with old used and chipped facade bricks. The sleekness of modern construction reflects off the imperfections of the reclaimed old materials, creating an absolute phenomenon that has resulted in the most beautiful construction projects both indoors and outdoors. For interiors, we also offer a fantastic range of old floor tiles that can elevate your project to another level!

What bricks are used for exterior walls?

Facade bricks are often used for every type of exterior wall. This is because they can withstand various weather conditions, last a long time, and retain their color. The facade bricks used for exterior walls also vary in color.

Which type of bricks should I use?

Which bricks you should use depends heavily on the project.
If you want an ultimate authentic look, we recommend handmade bricks due to their unique production method. For a more streamlined appearance, you should look at molded bricks. The old bricks, like their newer counterparts, are specially designed to withstand weather influences; it is no coincidence that they are often hundreds of years old and have still survived the demolition and chiseling process. Whether it’s about restoring a historic building or creating a new structure with an antique flair, the right brick can make all the difference. For more advice and an extensive collection of antique second-hand bricks, Van Dillen Antieke Bouwmaterialen is always ready to assist you.