When it comes to adding warmth, texture, and timeless character to a space, few materials compare to brick. But not all brick is created equal—and when you’re planning a renovation or new build, you’ll likely face this question:
Should you go with full-thickness traditional brick or choose thin brick tile?
At Inglenook Tile Design, we specialize in handmade thin brick tiles that replicate the look and feel of antique brick — without the weight, mess, or installation headaches of full bricks. If you’re wondering how the two compare, you’re in the right place.
Let’s start with the basics.
Thin brick tile is a real brick veneer—about ⅜” inch thick—crafted to mimic the size, color, and texture of traditional bricks. Our tiles at Inglenook Tile are hand-poured and fired from clay, using molds of antique bricks found in historic buildings throughout the U.S.
Unlike traditional brick (which is 3–4 inches thick), thin brick is lightweight and designed for use on walls, backsplashes, floors, fireplaces, and exteriors—without the need for structural support or special foundations.
Installing full-thickness brick requires major prep: structural support, footers, a skilled mason, and more time (and mess) on site.
Thin brick tile cuts the weight and the wait.
🔨 Thinking about installing it yourself? Check out our installation tips to see how easy it really is.
Let’s bust a myth: Thin brick tile isn’t a “fake” version of brick. It is real brick—just thinner and smarter.
At Inglenook Tile Design, we go a step further. Our tiles are handcrafted using molds of antique bricks sourced from 18th and 19th-century buildings, then finished in custom color blends that capture the patina and texture of aged brick.
You get all the depth, variation, and character—without the bulk.
🧱 Want proof? Browse our gallery to see how clients have used our tiles to mimic old-world charm in modern homes.
Full bricks are heavy—really heavy. A single square foot of traditional brick can weigh up to 40 pounds, which limits where you can use it.
Thin brick weighs just 4–6 pounds per square foot. That opens up a world of possibilities:
While the material cost of thin brick vs. traditional brick can be similar, thin brick wins on labor, shipping, and overall installation costs. You don’t need a mason. You don’t need to reinforce anything. And the shipping costs are a fraction of what full bricks require.
Plus, thin brick helps you preserve square footage—especially important in small kitchens, bathrooms, or tight entryways.
💸 Want a custom quote? Contact us here and we’ll help estimate your project.
Why Choose Inglenook Thin Brick Tiles?
We’ve been doing this for 20 years, and we believe in quality, beauty, and helping you bring your vision to life.
👉 Start Here:
📦 Order a sample
🎨 Customize your own blend
🏡 Explore our collections
Thin brick tile isn’t a compromise — it’s an upgrade. Lighter, faster, more flexible, and just as beautiful. Let’s build something unforgettable.
