Red Bricks

Red bricks are everywhere in the UK and are known for their ageless look, abundance, and performance. The warm, inviting hues provide a classic look that has been trusted by homeowners, architects, and contractors for a long time.

They are present in a diverse number of projects, from large-scale residential developments to intricate garden walls. Their durability, persistent colour, and practicality make them a smart choice for builders everywhere.

Key Features of Red Bricks

Red bricks are made from natural clay and come in familiar UK work sizes, making them easy to use and fully compatible with standard mortar joints. You can get them in various finishes, including smooth, textured, glazed, and even as brick slips.

For every project, you can find a compliant red brick that meets UK standards. This includes information on its moisture uptake, frost resistance, and fire safety. We support a wide range of project needs, from red facing bricks to Class B engineering bricks for more intense demands.

Benefits of Red Bricks

Tonal Variety

The red colour is achieved by the iron oxide in the clay mix, which oxidises during firing. You can find a wide palette of red tones that include monotone reds, red multi, soft reds, bright reds, deep reds, etc., to match your project’s design.

Timeless Appeal

Red bricks have been in use for a long time and are an iconic sight in many towns, cities, and residences. This versatility and ubiquity mean they are as at home in a barn conversion as they are on a suburban terrace.

Thermal Mass Efficiency

Brick’s thermal mass helps keep indoor temperatures comfortable and makes it easier for interior HVAC systems to maintain optimal conditions.

Practical Weight

Red facing bricks are less structurally robust than engineering grade options, making them easier to cut and lay while still delivering structural integrity to your builds.

Built to Last

Clay brickwork has proven longevity and will often outlast 150 years. It is therefore a solid long-term investment for your projects.

What are Red Bricks Used For?

Red bricks showcase their versatility by continuing to appear in diverse locations, including new construction or refurbishments. Depending on specifications, different types are used differently:

Facing bricks – We have options for external facades, made with an emphasis on appearance and weather resistance.

Engineering bricks – Marked by their higher compressive strength and low water absorption, engineering bricks are chosen for structural elements, such as those below the damp proof course (DPC)

You can also get special shaped red bricks, such as squints and bullnoses, to create the specific architectural details you like.

Why Choose Our Red Bricks

We offer one of the widest selections of red bricks from trusted manufacturers. They come with consistent colour runs, precise technical specifications, and are delivered to your site quickly. Should you need any help with any aspect of sourcing bricks, we have brick experts on standby to answer any questions.

Continue the tradition and timelessness of red brick with discounted bulk orders from our catalogue. Request a sample to match your project’s style and appearance.

FAQs

What makes a brick red?

The red colour in the UK bricks is primarily the result of iron oxide in the clay composition used for manufacturing. After firing, it oxidises into a red hue.

Why is there so much red brick in the UK?

Red bricks have remained a common sight across the UK due to their cost efficiency, diversity of types, beauty, durability, and inflammability.

What is the standard, most common red brick in the UK?

The standard size for modern red bricks (post-Imperial measurements) is 215 × 102.5 × 65 mm.