Different Colors of Brick

Bricks have different colors depending on their composition, as well as the glazes and kiln temperature used during the firing process. Some manufacturers make bricks in more than 100 colors, according to the Brick Industry Association.

Color Range

Bricks range from white and buff to red and burgundy. Applying different glazes to their surfaces can further extend the color range of bricks. Dark red bricks once accounted for most sales, but in recent years, earth tones and soft pastels--such as peach--have gained in popularity, according to the Southwestern Brick Institute.

Multi-Colored Bricks

You can also find bricks with flecks of different colors or textural variations that blur color. These multi-colored bricks work well in rustic settings.

Mortar

Twenty percent of the surface of a brick wall consists of the mortar, which holds the brick together. Just as color choices in bricks have increased, mortar now comes in many more colors than gray and white. Choose mortar to blend in closely with brick color or contrast with it.

Considerations

Brick color can influence the choice of cleaning methods. Using acid cleaners can change the color of light brick. Pressure washers can alter the appearance of certain coatings containing sand.

Staining

You can have specialists stain new bricks in the color of your choice or to match old bricks, which have faded. You can also stain the mortar, concrete or stucco.

References

• Doityourself.com: Outside the Brick Box
• Mason Contractors Association of America: Choosing the Right Brick
• Mason Contractors Association of America: Throw on Some Color