reclaimed brick..

[monkeys101]

Looking for your thoughts on using very old or reclaimed brick. I have just been offered a load of brick...Enough to build a garden fireplace as well as an oven..all free. 
Has anyone used them ? pros, cons etc.. The brick is old style terracotta prob pre 1950's.. from an old house in Ayrshire. will be picking up on Monday so would appreciate any views.. Thanks guys. John.

[oblertone]

I used 200yr old wire cut bricks from a chimney stack and cut with a bolster for my oven; works a treat so far !

[kstronach]

Yep they'll be absolutely fine unless the're soft and crumbly, give them a knock with the hammer they want a good ring to them and if you split one in half look for a good even colour through the middle. Old reds make some of the nicest ovens in my opinion.

All the best with your build

Keith

[monkeys101]

Cheers Keith, I agree with them looking good to.. right I now have more brick than I neeed!!!