When it comes to the great imperial vs metric debate, there can be no doubt that size matters. The size and style of brick you choose for your project will impact on the design and, of course, the overall appearance.
If you are working with a period property, a listed building or in a conservation area the question of imperial vs metric sizing will inevitably be raised as the primary concern will be to ensure that any new construction materials match the existing building.
At Heritage Bricks we pride ourselves on our attention to detail and the authenticity of our products, a philosophy which we apply to the materials we use, our time-honoured methods of production and the style and sizing of the traditional handmade bricks we produce.
Brick sizing in a nutshell
The typical size of bricks used in the UK has varied over the centuries. If we look back to the 1700s two-inch bricks were the norm. These smaller imperial bricks were widely used until 1784 when the introduction of a brick tax by King George III saw bricks taxed at 2s 6d per thousand.
To mitigate the effects of the tax, brick manufacturers began to increase the size of their bricks and a new larger three-inch brick became the accepted standard. We commonly refer to these as imperial bricks today.
Modern day brick sizing has settled at a depth of 65mm and these are known as metric bricks. The vast majority of new build properties in the UK are now constructed using 65mm bricks.
Which is right for you?
At Heritage Bricks our focus is on the preservation and renovation of period properties using traditional handmade imperial bricks. The choice of imperial vs metric sizing in these circumstances will usually be dictated by the aesthetic of an existing building.
In order to authentically match existing brickwork or allow a new structure to blend effortlessly into its surrounding environment the new brickwork must be a perfect match for the old. Where traditional properties are concerned this will often require an imperial brick.
Metric bricks are available in traditional styles, of course, and they can certainly add character and charm to a new build development. However, a truly sympathetic restoration or renovation requires a level of attention to detail and authenticity that can only be achieved with traditional handmade imperial bricks.
Imperial vs metric – the choice is yours!
If you are considering the question of imperial vs metric brick sizing our expert team is always on hand to provide advice and guidance. We are specialists in our field and have worked extensively with architects, planners, conservation officers and designers on restoration and renovation projects across the UK.
With our extensive collection of handmade bricks in traditional imperial sizes you can be sure that when it comes to the conservation and renovation of period properties, we will have the solution you are looking for.
Why not give us a call to discuss your latest project.
