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01 · Ask
Repair, match or build new?
Spalling brick, dropped wall, want a new extension? Describe what you've got — the AI tells you whether it's a repointing job, a rebuild or a structural call.
Compare clay vs concrete bricks.
Clay for face brickwork, concrete for engineering and below-DPC — when each is the right call.
✓ Updated May 2026✓ Free quotes✓ Vetted pros
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Read the brief on bond, mortar and DPC — then let Three local bricklayers quote on the right spec.
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02 · Read the brief
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Stretcher vs Flemish bond, NHL lime, cavity ties, weep holes, DPC heights. Know what good looks like before the first course is laid.
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03 · Compare
Compare 3 bricklayer quotes
Three local bricklayers quote on the same spec — bricks, mortar, scaffold, finishing — so you can pick the right hand for the job.
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Top tips
Hiring a bricklayer, without the regret.
Four moves that separate a smooth job from a nightmare.
Match the brick before they start.
On extensions and repairs, sourcing the right brick is harder than laying it. Insist on a sample wall — three courses, on-site, in your light — before they buy the pallet.
Get the mortar mix in writing.
Lime mortar, cement mortar, NHL grade — the wrong mix on the wrong brick spalls in five winters. Ask which mix and why.
Check the bond before pointing.
Stretcher, Flemish, English — the bond should match the existing wall, especially on period properties. Catch it at first course, not after pointing.
Insist on a damp-proof course.
Any external wall needs a DPC at the right height — 150mm above finished ground level. A missing or wrong DPC creates damp problems you'll be fixing for years.
Costs & timeline
Know what it costs. Know when it ends.
Indicative UK ranges and what affects price.
Cost range
By job type
Inc. VAT · 2026
Source: NMT quotes
Source: NMT quotes
Day rate
£200–£350/day
Brickwork (per m²)Inc. labour, ex. bricks
£80–£160/m²
Repointing (per m²)
£30–£70/m²
Garden wall (per linear m)1m high, single skin
£120–£280
Chimney rebuild
£1.8k–£4.5k
Brick arch (over opening)
£350–£900
!
Quote spread is typically ± 18% — always get 3 quotes.
At a glance
InfographicThe Bricklayer briefing.
Infographic
Bricklayer quick-view
Most UK construction now uses clay bricks (the traditional kiln-fired type), but concrete bricks (cement and aggregate moulded under pressure) have a significant share of the budget market. They look similar at first glance but behave differently. This guide covers the cost, durability, and appearance differences in 2026, and which suits which use.
Both are valid construction products. The choice depends on budget, desired appearance, and longevity priorities.
Comparison Table
| Property | Clay brick | Concrete brick |
|---|---|---|
| Cost per 1,000 (typical) | £400–£900 | £300–£600 |
| Lifespan | 100–200 years | 50–80 years |
| Colour | Dyed at kiln (permanent) | Surface or through (can fade) |
| Frost resistance | Excellent | Good (varies by mix) |
| Weight (per brick) | ~2.5 kg | ~3.2 kg |
| Sound insulation | Good | Slightly better |
| Thermal mass | Good | Better |
| Carbon footprint | Higher (kiln firing) | Lower |
When to Choose Clay
- Heritage repairs and matching to existing clay.
- Properties where lifespan matters (long-term investment).
- Where colour fade would be a problem.
- Visible exterior work where appearance matters.
When to Choose Concrete
- Budget-conscious projects.
- Internal walls (not exposed to weather).
- Some retaining walls (concrete is heavier, more thermal mass).
- Hidden structural work.
UK Regulations
- Both must meet BS EN 771 specifications.
- Listed properties typically require clay.
- Conservation areas often specify clay.
Common Problems
- Concrete brick colour fade — surface-dyed concrete bricks fade over 10–15 years.
- Mismatched expansion — different materials in same wall move differently.
- Wrong choice for use — concrete for visible exterior often disappoints over time.
Frequently Asked Questions
Which lasts longer?
Clay bricks last 2–3× longer than concrete bricks. Kiln-fired clay is more weather-resistant.
Are concrete bricks fake?
Not fake — different product. Suitable for many uses but not a direct replacement for clay in heritage or premium applications.
Do concrete bricks fade?
Some yes — depends on dye type. Surface dyes fade faster than through-coloured.
Which is better for retaining walls?
Both work. Concrete is heavier and stronger; clay is more weather-resistant. Engineering bricks (clay) or specific retaining wall concrete blocks both suit.
What's the environmental impact?
Concrete bricks have lower embodied carbon. Clay bricks have higher initial impact but longer life balances out.
Can I mix them in one wall?
Possible but rare — different expansion rates can cause joint cracking. Generally stick to one type per wall.
This guide was written with AI assistance and is intended for general information only. Prices are estimates based on UK averages and may vary by region. Always get at least three quotes and consult a qualified professional before starting any work.
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