When repairing older brickwork, the challenge is often to make the new blend seamlessly with the old. Colour, mortar, and texture must harmonise so the repair looks natural rather than patched. Achieving this requires patience, attention to detail, and an understanding of the building’s history. Here’s a guide to repairing older brickwork with new bricks – discreetly and respectfully.

Understand the Age and Character of the Brickwork

Before starting, take time to understand the age and type of the brickwork. Bricks have changed significantly over the decades in size, colour, and firing method. A wall built in the early 20th century will likely have smaller, darker bricks than one from the 1970s. Mortar types also vary: older Irish buildings often used lime mortar, while more recent ones use cement-based mixes.

Check the following:

• Brick size – measure height, length, and width carefully.
• Colour and surface texture – is it smooth, rough, glossy, or matte?
• Mortar colour and composition – lime mortar is softer and lighter than cement mortar.

The better you understand the original materials, the easier it will be to find suitable replacements.

Finding the Right Bricks

Matching new bricks to old ones can be tricky, especially in Ireland where regional variations in clay and firing methods give bricks distinctive tones. Fortunately, several Irish and UK suppliers specialise in heritage or reclaimed bricks.

Consider these options:

• Reclaimed bricks – available from demolition yards, they already have the weathered look that suits older buildings.
• New bricks with aged finishes – some manufacturers produce ranges designed to replicate traditional handmade bricks.
• Colour adjustment – in some cases, you can tone down new bricks using limewash or a mild acid treatment.

Always take a few sample bricks home and compare them against the existing wall in natural daylight. Even small colour differences can stand out once the bricks are in place.

Mortar – the Subtle Unifier

Even perfectly matched bricks can look out of place if the mortar doesn’t blend. Mortar colour and texture make up a large part of a wall’s overall appearance. Take time to mix a mortar that matches both in tone and consistency.

• Lime mortar is ideal for older brickwork, as it allows the wall to breathe and move naturally.
• Cement mortar is harder and should only be used if the original wall was built with it.
• Pigments can help fine-tune the colour, but always test on a small area first.

When repointing, match the depth and profile of the existing joints. This is often where the difference between old and new becomes most visible.

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Carry Out the Work with Care

When removing damaged bricks, work slowly and carefully to avoid harming the surrounding ones. Use a hammer and chisel with precision, and clear out all old mortar so the new bricks have a solid base.

Set the new bricks in place with your prepared mortar, ensuring they sit flush with the existing wall. Repoint once the mortar has begun to firm up, shaping the joints to match the original style.

It’s best to work in small sections so you can continually assess how well the repair blends in.

Finishing and Weathering

Even with careful work, new bricks may initially look too fresh. Over time, weathering will naturally soften the contrast, but you can help the process along.

• A light limewash can tone down bright colours.
• A thin lime slurry can create a more uniform appearance.
• Avoid paint or sealants, as they can trap moisture and damage the wall.

The goal is for the repair to look like part of the building’s story, not a new addition.

Preserving the Building’s Character

Repairing older brickwork is about more than just fixing damage – it’s about preserving the character and craftsmanship of the original structure. A discreet repair maintains the building’s charm and ensures it continues to stand proudly for years to come.

With the right materials, patience, and a careful eye, you can achieve a result that is both durable and beautifully in keeping with the past.