reusing old bricks when rebuilding?

elsien

I'm having a 3ft brick garden wall rebuilt, and one of the builders says to save money I can reuse most of the bricks by turning them round so the inside surface now faces out. He'll just replace the ones that are really worn. The wall isn't supporting anything, it's just to mark the boundary. The house is victorian, and I'm assuming the wall dates from the same period.
Any comments or opinions on whether this is a good idea, or whether it will backfire in the long term would be gratefully received.

LandyAndy

Yes this is fine and will keep the look in keeping with the house. Incidentally, its also what was done with cobbled streets when they were relaid.

Sumostar

As long as the brick are sound then this is the best option. Some times it can be difficult to remove the old mortar if it is particularly hard, but reused brick will be much more in keeping with the original house.

Li0nhead

As above, we sometimes do this on our jobs where we struggle to get a match. Should be fine as long as he does throw the crap ones.

niccy

you could probably save a few quid by doing the cleaning of the bricks as well.

A very satisfying job,done it a few times myself.

And think of the recycling benefits, you will lower your carbon footprint;)





Or you could sell the bricks and use new ones:eek:

elsien

you could probably save a few quid by doing the cleaning of the bricks as well.

Nice idea, but no chance - life's too short, and i'm too lazy.
Shouldn't be a problem with the old mortar, most of it's falling out anyway, hence the need for a new wall.

Mr_Warren_2

I have had to buy "reclaimed" bricks to achieve the old effect so your builder's recommendations are sound. You don't want your wall to have this "look at me I'm a new brick" look.

andipandi_2

as long as the bricks are not soft you can reuse them.