Revive Your Bathroom with Reclaimed Brick Tiles

If you’re searching for a budget‑friendly, eco‑smart way to transform your bathroom, this guide shows you exactly how to install reclaimed brick tiles from start to finish. You’ll learn where to source the bricks, how to prep and cut them, the best adhesive and grout choices, and simple maintenance tips so your new floor stays beautiful for years.

Why Reclaimed Brick?

A story in every brick

Walking into a warehouse of weathered bricks rescued from a 1920s factory feels like stepping into a time capsule. Each piece carries a patina that modern tiles can’t replicate, turning your bathroom into a narrative of history and sustainability.

Lower embodied energy

Embodied energy measures the total energy spent to extract, process, and transport a material. New ceramic tiles demand mining, high‑temperature firing, and long‑haul shipping. By reusing bricks that have already expended that energy, you dramatically cut the carbon footprint of your remodel, similar to choosing other green flooring options that prioritize sustainability.

Sourcing Your Brick Tiles

Where to look

Local demolition sites – contractors often give away or sell bricks for a small fee.
Salvage yards – bricks are pre‑sorted by size and condition, simplifying selection.
Online marketplaces – choose sellers who post detailed photos and clear provenance.

What to check

Structural integrity – tap a brick; it should sound solid, not hollow.
Cleanliness – avoid heavy oil stains or any sign of asbestos‑containing mortar.
Size consistency – aim for bricks roughly 4‑6 inches square for flooring; irregular sizes work well on a feature wall.

Preparing the Bricks

Cleaning without harsh chemicals

A gentle scrub with warm water and a soft brush removes loose dust. For stubborn grime, mix one part white vinegar to three parts water and wipe clean. Rinse thoroughly and let the bricks dry completely—trapped moisture can lead to mold later.

Removing old mortar

If mortar remains on the back, use a hand chisel and hammer to chip it away. Work patiently to achieve a flat surface so the brick sits flush against the substrate, improving adhesive bond strength.

Cutting and Shaping

Tools you’ll need

Angle grinder with a diamond blade – ideal for straight cuts.
Tile nipper – perfect for small, irregular cuts around fixtures.
Safety gear – goggles, dust mask, and ear protection are non‑negotiable.

Tips for clean cuts

Mark the cut line with a pencil, then score the brick slowly. Let the blade do the work; forcing it can cause cracks. After scoring, apply gentle pressure with the grinder to finish the cut. For curved edges around a bathtub, use the tile nipper to chip away small pieces until the shape fits.

Installing the Tiles

Choosing the right adhesive

A polymer‑modified thinset mortar stays flexible and adheres well to both brick and cement backer board. Mix according to the manufacturer’s directions—aim for a smooth, peanut‑butter‑like consistency.

Laying out the pattern

Dry‑lay the bricks before spreading mortar. A classic “running bond” (each row offset by half a brick) creates visual rhythm and hides minor size variations. Use 1/8‑inch spacers to keep grout lines even.

The actual setting

Spread a thin layer of mortar on the back of each brick with a notched trowel, press firmly onto the floor, and wiggle slightly for full contact. Check each tile with a level; sand down any high spots later. Work in small sections so the mortar doesn’t dry before you place the next brick.

Grouting and Sealing

Grout selection

A sanded epoxy grout offers high durability and moisture resistance—essential for bathrooms. It’s pricier than cement grout, but its longevity offsets the cost. Mix only the amount you’ll use within the working time; epoxy sets quickly.

Applying grout

Use a rubber grout float to push grout into joints at a 45‑degree angle. Scrape excess with the float’s edge, let the grout cure about 10 minutes, then wipe the surface with a damp sponge to remove haze. Finish with a dry cloth to reveal the brick’s natural depth.

Sealing the surface

Even with epoxy grout, sealing the brick adds a barrier against stains and moisture. Choose a breathable, water‑based sealant so the brick can “breathe” while staying protected. Apply thin, even coats with a brush, allowing each layer to dry fully before the next.

Maintenance Made Easy

Reclaimed brick is surprisingly low‑maintenance. A weekly wipe with a mild soap solution keeps it fresh. Avoid abrasive cleaners—they wear down the sealant. When the sealant shows wear, a quick re‑application restores protection without heavy lifting.

My Bathroom Reveal

After completing my own remodel, the first thing I noticed was how the brick tiles softened the harsh fluorescent lighting. The warm, earthy tones made the space feel inviting, and visitors kept asking if I’d “found a secret boutique tile shop.” Best of all, the project cost less than half of a brand‑new tile set, much like the savings highlighted in a zero‑waste kitchen remodel, and those salvaged bricks avoided a landfill fate.

Final Thoughts

Reviving a bathroom with reclaimed brick tiles is more than a design choice; it’s a statement that beauty, history, and sustainability can coexist in everyday spaces. The process requires some elbow grease—cutting, cleaning, and sealing—but the payoff is a unique, resilient surface that tells a story every time you step out of the shower.

Ready to blend DIY pride with eco‑conscious living? See how others have upcycled materials, like building upcycled pallet shelves, then grab a handful of salvaged bricks, plan your layout, and start transforming. Your bathroom—and the planet—will thank you.