Guide to our Tumbled Brick Range

How Tumbled Bricks Differ from Regular Bricks

Understanding the difference between tumbled bricks and regular bricks is key. While all bricks provide structural integrity, tumbled bricks offer a distinct aesthetic that sets them apart, bringing an instant sense of history and charm.

Tumbled bricks offer a different vibe to other bricks in our range (including waterstruck, wirecut and stock bricks).  Their irregular edges and surface variations create a more organic, natural appearance. This isn’t by accident—it’s the result of a deliberate process. The goal is to make each brick look like it's been aged by time and nature, giving your project instant vintage appeal.

Another key difference is how the two types of bricks age. Regular bricks can start to look worn or damaged over time, especially in outdoor settings. Tumbled bricks, by contrast, get better with age. Their aesthetic is built around wear and tear, so they continue to look good even as they age more in the changeable UK weather.

Brick Type: Barnhouse Blend

The Manufacturing Process of Tumbled Bricks

To create the aged, weathered and distressed look in the bricks, they are placed into a large drum or mechanical tumbling machine after being fired.  Think of it as a specialized cement mixer for bricks!

Inside the tumbler, bricks are gently rolled and tossed around.  This process causes their edges to subtly chip and round off, while abrasive action between bricks leads to scuffing, cracking, and natural imperfections. No two tumbled bricks come out exactly alike, which makes each brick unique and contributing to that authentic, reclaimed brick aesthetic.

For some brick types, dyes or surface treatments like a light whitewash, sand coating, or acid wash are applied during tumbling to further enhance the aged effect, delivering truly bespoke finishes.

Aesthetic Appeal, Texture & Finish: Why Tumbled Bricks are a Favourite in the UK

There’s a reason tumbled bricks are so beloved by architects, designers and self-builders, the bricks bring instant warmth, nostalgia, and character to any project. Whether you’re building a Tuscan-style villa, a rustic country home, or just adding charm to a modern build, the aesthetic of tumbled bricks delivers.

Touch a tumbled brick, and you'll immediately feel the difference, tumbled bricks are rough, varied, and sometimes pitted or chipped. These imperfections are a part of their charm adding to the character to the brickwork bringing a reclaimed style finish to any project.

While all of Traditional Brick & Stone's bricks serve structural and decorative purposes, tumbled bricks are often chosen primarily for their unparalleled aesthetic value.

Brick Type: Old Kelten

Durability and Strength of Tumbled Bricks

Despite their aged appearance, tumbled bricks are incredibly tough. Don’t let the chips and cracks fool you—tumbled bricks are built to last. Their core structure is just as solid, if not more so, than regular bricks.

As with all bricks in the TBS range, our tumbled bricks boast the highest durability rating (F2), ensuring lasting performance and resilience against the UK elements.

The Traditional Brick & Stone Tumbled Range: Aged Beauty for Every UK Project

Our Tumbled Range offers a wide selection of tumbled bricks, expertly designed to complement the unique architectural styles found across the UK. Each brick in this collection boasts a gently weathered appearance, perfect for achieving a timeless, established look.

You can explore our entire collection on our brick selector tool, but here are some popular highlights from the range:

Ares: This brick features a sophisticated grey base softened with subtle buff and off-white hues, resulting in a multi-tonal, subtly aged aesthetic.

Barnhouse Blend: A stunning red option with flashes of whites and blacks, perfectly replicating a genuine reclaimed barnhouse style finish.

Olde Elsworth Cream: The ideal choice for those seeking a characterful buff/cream option with authentic charm.

Old Kelten: Experience a rich and earthy palette with this brick, showcasing a beautiful blend of deep reds, warm terracottas, and natural browns.

Conclusion - The Enduring Appeal of Tumbled Bricks

Homeowners and developers love tumbled bricks for good reason. They bring that cozy, welcoming charm to exteriors and interiors alike in the ever popular brickslip format.

Whether integrated into modern minimalist designs or used in authentic historic restorations, these bricks add instant character. It's like giving your space a lived-in, loved feel – a warmth that often takes years to develop naturally. And the best part? They truly only get better with age, with the UK weather naturally enhancing their appearance and deepening their unique charm over time.