Dreaming of a brick wall but worried about getting a cheap imitation? That’s a smart approach – because in the world of brick tiles, appearances can be deceiving. What looks perfect in a catalog may not deliver the texture, depth, and character you expect in real life.
Choosing the right brick isn’t just about style – it affects the durability, feel, and personality of your interior.
Here are 5 practical tips to help you recognize authentic brick tiles and avoid low-quality imitations.
Authentic reclaimed bricks are full of character – and imperfections are part of their charm.
Look for:
Slight dents, chips, or worn edges
Uneven surfaces that interact beautifully with light
Color variations – some tiles may be warmer, others cooler
No repetitive patterns – each tile is unique
Imitations often look too perfect: smooth, consistent, and with repeated textures that give away their mass-produced nature.
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Real bricks are solid and heavy – even thin tiles carry weight. Pick up a tile and notice:
Mass – authentic bricks feel dense
Hardness – they resist slight pressure without cracking
Sound – tap them lightly; real brick produces a deep, solid sound, unlike hollow or plastic-like imitations
Imitation tiles are often light, thin, and fragile, with a hollow or high-pitched sound when tapped.
Reclaimed bricks have natural, uneven edges. Look for:
Slightly chipped corners
Non-uniform thickness or length
Subtle marks or scratches from previous use
Mass-produced tiles often have:
Perfect, straight edges
Identical shapes across all tiles
Smooth, machine-finished surfaces
Irregular edges give your wall depth and authenticity, making each installation unique.
Real brick has a 3D texture. Light and shadow play across the surface, creating visual interest. Imitations may have printed textures or shallow reliefs, which flatten out under real light conditions.
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Every reclaimed brick has a history – sometimes over 100 years. At Deco Stones, our bricks come from historical buildings, cleaned and ready for new interiors.
Tips when buying:
Request a sample to see and feel the material
Look for variations in color, texture, and weight
Ask about the source – authenticity matters
A brick wall isn’t just a backdrop – it’s a centerpiece. Only real brick tiles give depth, texture, and unique character. Irregularities, weight, and subtle imperfections create natural beauty that mass-produced imitations cannot replicate.
Q1: Can reclaimed brick tiles be used in all interior walls?
A1: Yes, they are perfect for kitchens, bathrooms, living rooms, and commercial interiors.
Q2: How can I test if a brick tile is authentic?
A2: Check the weight, tap it for sound, feel the texture, and inspect edges for irregularities.
Q3: Are reclaimed brick tiles durable?
A3: Absolutely. Made from old fired clay, they are solid, long-lasting, and resistant to wear.
Q4: Can I order samples before committing?
A4: Yes! At Deco Stones, you can request samples to see and feel the difference firsthand.
Explore our reclaimed brick tile collection at Deco Stones and discover authentic, timeless bricks that bring character and history into your interiors. Order samples today and see why designers and homeowners across Ireland prefer genuine brick tiles.
