What to Look for When Buying Recycled Bricks in Perth (and Why We’re Obsessed)
Let’s face it, folks—shopping for recycled bricks isn’t exactly like picking out a new couch. There’s no “test sitting,” no Instagram-worthy color swatches, and definitely no same-day delivery. But hey, that’s part of the charm, right? If you’re like us at The Brick Pit in Australia, you know hunting down the perfect batch of old used bricks is more like a treasure hunt than a chore. Whether you’re building a retaining wall, crafting brick edging, or just chasing that rustic vibe for your Perth backyard, recycled bricks are the ultimate blend of sustainability and character.
But—and this is a big but—not all second-hand bricks are created equal. Some are diamonds in the rough; others are… well, just rough. Let’s break down what to watch for, why sandstock bricks might become your new obsession, and how to avoid ending up with a pile of rubble that even your dog wouldn’t sniff at.
Why Recycled Bricks? (Spoiler: It’s Not Just the Price Tag)
We get it—reclaimed bricks have that “lived-in” look fresh bricks can’t fake. But beyond aesthetics, here’s why we’re team recycled:
- Eco-friendly cred: Reusing bricks reduces landfill waste (FYI, brick disposal is a huge issue in cities like Sydney and Brisbane).
- Budget love: Save up to 50% compared to new bricks. Why pay full price when history comes discounted?
- Durability: Older bricks, especially red bricks and sandstock bricks, were built to survive the apocalypse. Modern bricks? Let’s just say they’re… sensitive.
But here’s the kicker: quality varies wildly. One pallet might be flawless; the next could crumble like a cookie. So let’s talk about how to spot the winners.
The Brick Checklist: Don’t Leave Home Without It
1. Inspect Like a Pro (No Lab Coat Required)
Recycled bricks aren’t drama queens, but they do have baggage. Here’s what to eyeball:
- Cracks or chips: Tiny hairline cracks? Probably fine. Gaps big enough to stash your car keys? Hard pass.
- Mortar remnants: A little old mortar adds charm, but too much means extra cleanup. Pro tip: Ask if the bricks are “clean” or “stocked” (pre-cleaned).
- Color consistency: Mismatched hues = eclectic charm. But if you’re paving a patio, aim for similar tones.
Fun story: Last year, a client in Perth accidentally bought bricks stained with 1970s-era paint. Let’s just say neon orange wasn’t the “vintage” vibe they wanted.
2. Know Your Brick Types (Because ‘Old’ Isn’t a Style)
- Sandstock bricks: Rough texture, uneven edges. Perfect for gardens or feature walls. Our personal fave.
- Paving bricks: Flat, smooth, and ideal for paths. Avoid ones with rounded edges—they’re slippery when wet.
- Common red bricks: The classic workhorse. Great for structural projects like retaining walls.
FYI: At The Brick Pit, we sort bricks by type and era. Saves you from playing archaeological detective.
3. Measure Twice, Buy Once
Recycled bricks often come in non-standard sizes. Translation: Your “100-brick” patio might turn into a 87-brick patio with a weird gap. Always buy 10-15% extra. Trust us—tracking down matching old used bricks later is like finding a needle in a haystack.
Where to Find Recycled Bricks in Perth (Hint: We’re Biased)
Googling “recycled bricks near me”? You’ll get a mix of salvage yards, private sellers, and… questionable Facebook listings. Here’s the lowdown:
- Salvage yards: Reliable but pricey. Great for rare finds like reclaimed bricks from heritage sites.
- Marketplace listings: Cheap, but risky. Ever seen a brick photo taken in a dark garage? Exactly.
- Specialists (cough, The Brick Pit, cough): We’re Australia’s brick matchmakers. We clean, sort, and quality-check every batch. Plus, we handle brick disposal if you’ve got leftovers. Win-win!
Hot take: If you’re in Perth, skip the DIY drama. Let us source bricks that actually match your Pinterest board.
The Brick Face-Off: New vs. Recycled
Still on the fence? Here’s our brutally honest comparison:
| Feature | New Bricks | Recycled Bricks |
|---|---|---|
| Cost | $$$ | $$ |
| Eco-Friendliness | Low (high emissions) | High (reuses materials) |
| Durability | Good | Excellent (pre-1980s) |
| Character | “Basic” | “Tell me your life story” |
IMO, recycled bricks win every time—unless you’re into that “fresh outta the factory” look.
3 Questions Everyone Asks (But Is Too Shy to Google)
1. “Are recycled bricks strong enough for a retaining wall?”
Absolutely! Older bricks are denser and handle weight better. Just avoid ones with deep cracks.
2. “Can I mix brick types?”
Sure—if you’re into eclectic chaos. For a polished look, stick to one type (we’ve got pallets sorted by style at The Brick Pit).
3. “What if I buy too many?”
First: Congrats on your optimism. Second: We buy back unused bricks. No judgment here 🙂
Ready to Start Your Brick Journey?
At the end of the day, recycled bricks are like people—flaws tell a story, but you still want ones that won’t collapse under pressure. Whether you’re in Perth, Brisbane, or Sydney, The Brick Pit has your back. We’ll help you dodge the dud batches and find bricks that’ll outlive your grandkids.
So, what’s next? Grab a coffee, sketch your dream project, and give us a buzz. Let’s turn those old used bricks into something that’ll make the neighbors jealous.
P.S. If you mention this article, we’ll throw in a high-five. And maybe a discount. 😉
