Construction and Heritage Work In Gloucestershire
The History of Bricklaying in Gloucestershire
Bricklaying has deep roots in Gloucestershire, reflecting the region’s rich architectural heritage and evolving construction practices. From Roman villas to Georgian townhouses, the story of bricklaying here spans centuries of craftsmanship and innovation.
Roman Foundations
The origins of brickwork in Gloucestershire date back to Roman Britain. Sites like Chedworth Roman Villa showcase early use of handmade bricks and tiles. These bricks were often fired locally using clay from the Cotswold hills, setting the foundation for a tradition of masonry in the area.
Medieval and Tudor Periods
During the medieval era, stone remained the dominant material, but brick started to re-emerge in Tudor times. Brick was seen as a sign of wealth and status—used in grand houses, chimneys, and boundary walls. It was during this period that the skills of brickmakers and bricklayers became more refined and valued.
Georgian and Victorian Expansion
In the 18th and 19th centuries, Gloucestershire saw a construction boom, particularly in towns like Cheltenham and Gloucester. The arrival of canals and railways made brick more accessible, and local brickyards flourished. Georgian and Victorian homes, built with red and yellow bricks, still define much of the region’s streetscape today.
20th Century to Present
Bricklaying in the 20th century combined traditional techniques with modern materials and machinery. Post-war housing developments and public buildings used mass-produced bricks, yet the need for skilled craftsmanship remained strong—especially in restoration and heritage work.
Today’s Bricklaying
Modern bricklayers in Gloucestershire continue this proud tradition. Whether restoring a listed Cotswold cottage or building a new eco-home, today’s professionals blend time-honoured skills with contemporary standards and sustainability.
Understanding the Different Types of Bricks in Construction and Heritage Work
At Chris J Wilson Building and Landscape, we pride ourselves on craftsmanship that blends tradition with modern innovation. One of the most essential materials in any building or landscaping project is the humble brick — a building block that has stood the test of time for thousands of years.
But not all bricks are created equal. From sleek, contemporary builds to the delicate restoration of historic homes, the type of brick we use makes a significant difference in appearance, performance, and authenticity. In this article, we explore the different types of bricks used in construction and heritage work, helping our clients better understand the materials that shape their projects.
1. Clay Bricks
Most common in both traditional and modern construction.
- Uses: Walls, facades, fireplaces, garden features
- Appearance: Ranges from deep reds to earthy tones depending on clay composition and firing temperature
- Benefits: Excellent durability, thermal insulation, weather resistance
Clay bricks are the backbone of traditional construction. Known for their long lifespan and classic appearance, they’re ideal for both new builds and heritage restorations. In older properties, we often match handmade or reclaimed clay bricks to maintain period accuracy.
2. Engineering Bricks
Designed for strength and low water absorption.
- Uses: Damp-proof courses, retaining walls, basements
- Classes: Class A (blue) and Class B (red/brown)
- Benefits: High compressive strength, resistance to frost and chemicals
If structural integrity is the priority, engineering bricks come into play. They are dense and hard, with low porosity, making them ideal for groundworks and areas exposed to high moisture levels.
3. Concrete Bricks
Modern and versatile — ideal for landscaping and structural walls.
- Uses: Garden walls, decorative features, infill panels
- Appearance: Smooth or textured, in a range of colours
- Benefits: Affordable, consistent shape, customisable finishes
While not always suitable for heritage projects due to their uniformity and colour range, concrete bricks are highly useful in contemporary construction and landscaping. We often use them in garden edging, pathways, and bespoke outdoor features.
4. Reclaimed Bricks
Authentic character for heritage and renovation projects.
- Uses: Restoration work, period property extensions, matching existing walls
- Appearance: Weathered, irregular shapes and colours
- Benefits: Environmentally friendly, historically accurate
We frequently source reclaimed bricks to preserve the look and feel of historical buildings. Using bricks salvaged from older structures, we can ensure a seamless visual transition between new and existing elements of a property.
5. Handmade Bricks
Crafted using traditional methods for high-end finishes and heritage match-ups.
- Uses: Listed building repairs, high-spec new builds, bespoke features
- Appearance: Textured, slightly uneven with warm, varied tones
- Benefits: Unique character, exceptional aesthetic appeal
For truly authentic results, especially in listed buildings or conservation areas, we recommend handmade bricks. Each brick is unique, helping to mirror the traditional look of properties from the Georgian, Victorian, or Edwardian eras.
6. Facing Bricks
Primarily used for external walls where appearance matters.
- Uses: Façades, garden walls, visible external features
- Appearance: Wide variety of textures, colours, and finishes
- Benefits: Weather-resistant, visually striking, low maintenance
Facing bricks are selected for their appearance and are often used when aesthetics are key. From rustic finishes to smooth contemporary styles, we can help you choose facing bricks that complement your design vision.
7. Fire Bricks (Refractory Bricks)
Designed to withstand high temperatures.
- Uses: Fireplaces, pizza ovens, chimneys, kilns
- Appearance: Pale yellow or off-white, dense and heavy
- Benefits: Heat-resistant, long-lasting, safe for high-temperature areas
For projects involving open flames or high heat, such as fireplaces or outdoor ovens, we use fire bricks. These are specially engineered to resist thermal shock and maintain strength under intense heat.
Matching the Right Brick to the Right Job
At Chris J Wilson Building and Landscape, we understand that every project is unique. Whether we're constructing a new home, creating bespoke outdoor features, or lovingly restoring a period property, we choose bricks that meet the structural, environmental, and aesthetic needs of the job.
Why It Matters:
- Heritage projects require precision in brick matching to comply with planning regulations and maintain historical integrity.
- New builds benefit from modern brick technologies that enhance energy efficiency and durability.
- Landscaping applications call for weather-resistant, visually appealing bricks that enhance outdoor spaces.
Need Expert Advice?
If you’re planning a project — from a garden wall to a full-scale renovation — we’d be happy to help you choose the right bricks for your needs. With decades of hands-on experience and a deep respect for both tradition and innovation, we bring quality craftsmanship to every brick we lay.
Contact Chris J Wilson Building and Landscape today for a consultation or quote. Let’s build something that lasts — beautifully.