Reclaimed Brick.
Reclaimed brick is the most climate-friendly masonry material — its CO₂ footprint is 90% lower than new brick. Always choose reclaimed brick when it matches the existing construction. Read the numbers together with function, lifespan, detailing and the specific building element.
- Carbon Footprint (GWP)
- 0.03 kg CO₂-eq/kg
- Source: estimatee based on the EN 15804 average
- Density
- 1800 kg/m³
- Expected Lifespan
- 100+ years (second- or third-generation use)
How to use this assessment
The assessment of reclaimed brick is a first decision basis. Carbon numbers, density and lifespan give a point of comparison, but the material must always be read together with structure, moisture, fire requirements, detailing, maintenance and the condition of the existing building. A good material choice is therefore both a data question and an architectural judgement. The useful next step is to clarify which questions should be examined further before the material is specified in a project.
What is reclaimed brick?
Reclaimed brick is brickwork extracted from demolished buildings, cleaned of mortar, and resold for new masonry. The carbon footprint is dramatically lower than new brick, as no firing is required — only transport and cleaning. Reclaimed brick provides authentic patina and matches historic buildings.
Carbon Footprint Compared
Negative carbon footprint (green) indicates carbon storage. Data based on EPD averages from ECO Platform and estimates per EN 15804.
Typical Applications
- check_circle Facade walls (matching existing)
- check_circle Masonry in historic buildings
- check_circle Street facades and terraces
- check_circle Interior exposed masonry
In Renovation
Reclaimed brick is ideal for matching extensions to existing brick facades, repairing existing masonry, and carrying out authentic renovations of historic buildings. It is circular economy at its best.
Questions about reclaimed brick
Is reclaimed brick as strong as new brick?
Yes, provided it is correctly cleaned and sorted. Old hard-fired bricks from the 1800s and early 1900s are often stronger than modern brick. Avoid bricks with salt efflorescence or frost-spalled surfaces.
Where do you find reclaimed brick?
Genbrugsmaterialer.dk, HAVNEGÅRD, and local salvage yards are good places to look. Price is typically 2–4 DKK/brick depending on type and quantity.
Does reclaimed brick suit all buildings?
It requires careful matching — colour, format, and surface texture must match the existing masonry for extensions. A building professional can help match type and age.
What does reclaimed brick cost vs. new brick?
Reclaimed brick typically costs 3–6 DKK/brick cleaned. New hand-struck bricks cost 5–10 DKK/brick. Machine bricks are cheapest at 2–4 DKK/brick. Reclaimed brick is comparable in price but gives far lower CO₂.
Related Materials
Need advice?
We help you choose the right materials for your project — with focus on sustainability, durability, and economy.