Bricks, Masonry, Asphalt and Concrete - Brick Color Question

Hi All,

I have a question. I am currently in the process of having a home built. I picked out a brick color and they installed it today on the front of the home. Is it typical when they complete installing it that it looks much darker in color? It didn't feel wet but it looks almost like a dark maroon color and the brick is more of a red color. I'm hoping it is just wet and will dry and lighten up a bit.

Thanks,

Greg

The bricks themselves tend to be darker even if slightly dampened,so your right in saying they will lighten up a bit if that is the case.Also certain "runs" of brick are often baked longer or shorter for different color variations at the manufacturer.The brick joints themselves are always darker when bricks are first laid and will lighten up with drying and curing.

To make sure you've had the correct brick you selected delivered to the job and placed in the wall, check the brick tags on the cubes. Also check to make sure that the brick layer has used the correct color masonry cement for the brick veneer.

Run variations are to be expected. Brick are made from natural materials... and baked in a kiln. (Can you bake 24 batches of cookies exactly the same way consecutively?)

Finally, walk over to your sink and wet you hand. Then dry your hand on your faded blue jeans. Yikes, the denim has become dark! But not to worry. When the jeans dry, the color will look normal again. Same thing with the damp masonry. However, since the mortar is manufactured on the job, you should allow it to "cure" for at least a week (7 days) to determine it's approx. final cured color. While you're waiting, check for mortar smears... they'll be good examples of final color.

Good luck! Thanks for Building with BRICK!

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