TOOLS FOR MASONS, HOMEOWNERS, ARCHITECTS & CONTRACTORS IN HOME DESIGN

The Chief Bricks Journal

Real-world advice replaces fluff here.

Explore expert insights on reclaimed materials, design trends, installation guides, case studies, and the history behind the bricks and stones that shape today’s best projects.

What Is NHL 3.5 Mortar and Why It’s Ideal for Reclaimed Brick

What Is NHL 3.5 Mortar and Why It’s Ideal for Reclaimed Brick

Natural Hydraulic Lime (NHL) 3.5 mortar strikes the balance reclaimed bricks need: strong enough to hold, soft enough to protect, and breathable enough to handle real weather.

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Old Bricks, New Cellar: How Reclaimed Masonry Creates True Old‑World Wine Rooms

Old Bricks, New Cellar: How Reclaimed Masonry Creates True Old‑World Wine Rooms

Discover how reclaimed brick wine cellars create true old‑world character with modern performance, from design choices to installation tips for homeowners and builders.

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Why Reclaimed Bricks Need Different Mortar Than New Bricks

Why Reclaimed Bricks Need Different Mortar Than New Bricks

Learn why reclaimed bricks should not be paired with standard cement mortars, and how lime-based NHL 3.5 mortar protects both character and structure.

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Transform Your Space with Reclaimed New York Bricks

Transform Your Space with Reclaimed New York Bricks

You can feel the difference the moment you see them stacked in a yard or lining an old alley. Reclaimed New York Bricks carry stories that new bricks just do not have. They bring grit, age, and a sense of real history into projects that would otherwise feel flat.

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Bushwick townhouse reclaimed red brick facade

Reclaimed New York Bricks for Iconic Townhouse Facades

Reclaimed New York bricks let townhouse architects and renovators blend seamlessly into historic blocks, combining true New York material heritage with contemporary performance to create facades and interiors that look timeless, context‑driven, and sustainably built.

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Reclaimed Brick & Cobblestone for Restaurants and Hotels | Design, Cost, Sustainability

Reclaimed Brick & Cobblestone for Restaurants and Hotels | Design, Cost, Sustainability

Discover how reclaimed brick and cobblestone elevate restaurants and hotels with authentic hospitality design, durable high-traffic floors, social-media-ready walls, and sustainable materials, plus sourcing tips from Chief Bricks.

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Garden pathway reclaimed cobblestones and wood

Patio & Walkway Design Ideas Using Reclaimed Bricks & Stones

Explore Patio & Walkway Design Ideas Using Reclaimed Bricks & Stones to add timeless charm and sustainability to your outdoor space.

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Reclaimed patio bricks

Reclaimed Patio Bricks: Design, Install, And Care Guide

Learn how to plan, install, and maintain reclaimed patio bricks for patios, paths, and drives that feel timeless and durable.

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The Urban Fabric of Brick: Key Insights From a Three-Part Series by The American Ceramic Society

The Urban Fabric of Brick: Key Insights From a Three-Part Series by The American Ceramic Society

The Urban Fabric of Brick series by the American Ceramic Society explores how brick shaped cities through history, culture, and design. This summary highlights key insights and links back to the original articles for full context.

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Brick making process in the Hudson Valley 1880s

Brick Making Process In The Hudson Valley In The 1800s and 1900s

Learn how clay from the Hudson River became the bricks that built New York City, and how the process evolved from hand work to industrial production.

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What Makes The Hudson Valley Bricks So Special?

What Makes The Hudson Valley Bricks So Special?

Hudson Valley reclaimed bricks combine century‑tested durability, rich patina, and New York history, making them a standout choice for character‑driven projects.

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Aldi Central Islip Built with 55,440 Reclaimed New York Bricks from Chief Bricks

Aldi Central Islip Built with 55,440 Reclaimed New York Bricks from Chief Bricks

The new 20,000 sq ft Aldi in Central Islip, NY is fully clad in 55,440 reclaimed Hudson Valley bricks supplied by Chief Bricks, blending sustainability, history, and community pride.

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Harlem Manhattan townhouse reclaimed red bricks

Reclaimed vs New Bricks, What Should I Pick?

Reclaimed bricks and new bricks differ in several ways, particularly in appearance, durability, environmental impact, and cost.

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Exploring History at the Haverstraw Brick Museum

Exploring History at the Haverstraw Brick Museum

Situated in the historic Hudson Valley, the Haverstraw Brick Museum tells the story of how Haverstraw, Rockland County, New York, rose to become the brickmaking capital of the world.

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Embracing History: A Stunning Renovation in Rockville Centre

Embracing History: A Stunning Renovation in Rockville Centre

Nestled in a charming neighborhood of Rockville Centre, Long Island, New York, a remarkable 5-bedroom residence stands as a testament to the beauty of sustainable living and historic preservation. 

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Exploring Landmarks Built with Hudson Valley Brick

Exploring Landmarks Built with Hudson Valley Brick

Discover the surprising story behind some of America's most famous structures. Explore a list of iconic Landmarks Built with Hudson Valley Brick.

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Transform Your Space with Reclaimed Thin Brick Veneer

Transform Your Space with Reclaimed Thin Brick Veneer

Discover how reclaimed thin brick veneer can add rustic charm and historic elegance to your space with easy installation tips.

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Brick Sealing Basics: Protect Your Home Year-Round

Brick Sealing Basics: Protect Your Home Year-Round

Discover the best brick sealing techniques to protect and enhance your home's exterior. Learn tips and product recommendations here!

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