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Brick Matching Service

Whether you're extending your home, repairing a garden wall or renovating a period property, getting the right brick match is critical to achieving a seamless finish.

Our free in branch brick matching service takes the guesswork out of the process. Bring a sample brick or clear photos of your existing brickwork, and our trained specialists will assess the colour, size, texture and weathering to find the closest possible match from our extensive range. No appointment needed, just visit your nearest branch.

Can't find an exact match? In most cases our team can recommend a complementary brick or, where necessary, arrange a site visit to assess the brickwork in person.

Find a branch near you

How it works

1. Bring a sample or photos. A loose brick is ideal. If you're unable to bring a brick, bring clear photos from different distances and angles. See our photo tips below.

2. We assess and recommend. Our specialists review colour, size, texture and weathering to identify the closest match from our range.

3. Buy & go! Buy your matched bricks in branch and take them away the same day, or arrange a delivery direct to site.

How to take photos of bricks for the closest match

If you can't bring an example of the brick you'd like to match into branch, you'll need to take clear photos of the bricks in situ. Follow these tips:

  • Take photos of the brick from different angles/sides

  • If the brick is in place (in a wall or other structure), take a photo of the full wall

  • Take photos from different distances - not just close up but also from several metres back

    • When do you need brick matching?

    There are many reasons why a brick matching service would be helpful:

  • Extensions: Perfectly match new brickwork to the existing house
  • Repairs and repointing: Replace damaged or missing bricks without visible patching
  • Garden walls and outbuildings: Match the brick used in the main property
  • Period properties: Source the closest modern equivalent to older or discontinued bricks
  • New builds: Match bricks specified by an architect or planning condition

    • There's no need to book an appointment, just show up at your local Howarth Timber branch and the team will be happy to help.

    Frequently Asked Questions

    Is the brick matching service really free?
    Yes, completely free. There's no charge for the assessment and no obligation to buy. Simply bring a sample brick or clear photos into your nearest Howarth Timber branch and our specialists will advise on the closest match from our range at no cost.
    Do I have to go in branch to use your brick matching service?
    You can go in branch to match your bricks now. An online brick matching service is coming soon.
    How long does brick matching take?
    Same day, in branch.
    Can you match bricks from photos alone, or do I need to bring a physical sample?
    Photos can work well, especially if the brickwork is fixed in a wall and you can't remove a loose brick. For the best result, take photos from multiple distances and angles in natural daylight - a close-up of the brick face, a mid-distance shot showing several courses, and a wider shot of the full wall. A physical sample is always preferable if you can bring one, as it lets us assess texture and depth of colour more accurately.
    Can you match bricks for planning permission or listed building requirements?
    We work with many customers on extensions and repairs to period and listed properties where planning conditions require the new brickwork to match the original as closely as possible. Bring any written planning conditions or your architect's specification with you, and our team will do their best to find a match that satisfies the requirement. For listed buildings particularly, we'd recommend also consulting your local conservation officer about acceptable alternatives if an exact match isn't available.
    How to make old brick match new brick?
    We look at the old brick's size, texture, colour and condition so we can identify the best match. If an exact match can't be found, it's possible to stain a close match. Read our blog below for more details.
    How do I know which colour brick I need?
    Look closely at different colour variations, as many bricks feature blends of red, brown, buff or multi-tonal shades. How to colour match brick mortar and brickwork together becomes incredibly important here, as both affect the overall look. If you're not sure, please contact us.
    How to colour match brick mortar
    Consider mortar colour, joint profile and mortar strength. Check it when the existing mortar shade is both dry and slightly damp.
    Where can I find bricks to match my house?
    Take photos of your existing brick using our guidelines above, then come into a Howarth Timber branch and we'll be glad to find your perfect match.
    Can you match discontinued or old bricks?
    In many cases, yes, and reclaimed bricks or close alternatives are other options.
    Can I order bricks online and collect in branch?
    Yes, you can browse and order bricks through the Howarth website and collect from your nearest branch. If you're using the brick matching service first, the team can process your order in branch on the same visit once a match has been identified.

    How many bricks do I need?

    To accurately estimate the number of bricks you require, you can use our simple Brick Calculator.

    No matter what type of project you're doing, we can help you to understand how many bricks per m2 you need.

    Our Brick Wall Calculator is designed to provide precise calculations based on your specific measurements.

    Whether you're a DIY enthusiast or a professional, our Brick Calculator simplifies your planning and allows you to get started with confidence.

    Browse our brick selection

    Brick Advice

    How to match bricks: A complete guide

    This step-by-step guide explains how to match bricks accurately and what to consider before choosing a style.

     

    How to clean brick

    Knowing how to clean brick correctly helps keep them looking fresh and prevents further damage.