Frequently Asked Questions
About us
Who is Chief Bricks?
Chief Bricks is the nation’s largest supplier of reclaimed bricks and cobblestones from New York City. Since 1925, we have been continuously seeking out the entire city to keep New York City's history alive and provide a healthy environment for us people for centuries to come.
Is reclaiming a safe practice?
It has to be. Everyone has the right to work in a safe environment. Our vision is to have colleagues, contractors and visitors return home safely at the end of each day. We are committed to the safety and welfare of everyone through prevention, education and awareness of the challenges of reclaiming bricks and stones.
Are you a recycling center?
No. We are a reuse center and that's better.
When you dump bricks and stones in a recycling center, they get crushed by energy intensive heavy machinery and converted into structural filler that will end in the ground. And you pay for it. When you drop bricks and stones at Chief Bricks, we repurpose them for a new life. And we pay you.
Reusing is about creating something of high quality and durability saving all the energy, costs and materials of recycling. Call us at (718) 379-1232 to drop for free at our yard on 3221 Edson Ave, Bronx, NY 10469 or schedule a free pick up.
Do you install your bricks and stones?
No. We are strictly suppliers of the highest quality New York City bricks and stones in the country.
I have used bricks and stones to sell, will you buy them?
We are always on the lookout for bricks and stones. Please send us pictures, quantity and location via the contact form and we'll be in touch to discuss.
Can I talk to someone?
Of course. Call us Monday to Friday on (718) 379-1232 between 7am-3:00pm EST.
Bricks and stones
What’s a reclaimed brick/stone?
A reclaimed brick/stone has previously been used and is repurposed for a new life. Bricks and stones are rescued from demolition sites, old projects, landfills and construction recycling centers. At Chief Bricks, we find these bricks, chisel, chip and clean them, and make them ready to be incorporated into new building projects.
Are "reclaimed, used, antique, old" bricks the same thing?
Yes. Reclaimed bricks are also referred to as reused, recycled, rescued, antique and old.
Where do your reclaimed bricks and stones come from?
Our reclaimed bricks and stones are procured primarily from the most historic place in the US – New York City. Our cobblestones originally come from the old continent, Europe. We also scour the North East’s most renowned towns and cities to ensure we bring you the best quality and most durable products to be reused in your building project.
How different are reclaimed bricks from new bricks?
The brick making process has changed over the past centuries. The previously used coal-fired kilns allowed for some variation in color and texture, unlike today’s electric kilns which produce bricks of uniform color. Nowadays, because new bricks come straight from the kiln, it is impossible to know if they are truly strong and durable. However, with reclaimed bricks, their durability and ability to withstand pressures have already be proven through the test of time. Also, with the natural aging of the bricks, there are now color variations which adds a very charming characteristic that our clients find very attractive.
Do you sell thin/veneer NYC reclaimed bricks?
Yes. We can get any of our New York reclaimed bricks cut in veneer. Give us the details here.
Where do your new Belgian blocks come from?
Not Belgium, but India. We import and distribute the highest quality granite cobblestones in the USA aka Belgian Blocks. All sides natural cut and consistent size. All sizes are available in grey, some are available in black, pink and Phoenician buff.
What is the standard size and weight of an average brick or stone?
A regular brick is 8" x 3.5" x 2.5" and 3.66 lbs. A pallet of 504 bricks weighs around 2,095 lbs, pallet included.
A regular cobblestone is 9" x 5" x 24.5" and 19.1 lbs. A pallet of 178 cobblestones weighs around 3,475 lbs, pallet included.
You can view the specifics and dimensions of all our products right here in our web store.
Will the bricks last?
Our reclaimed bricks and stones were made over a 100 years ago and most of them show very little to no wear and tear. The reason being is that bricks made during this time period were dried, fired and packed by hand. As a result of how they were created and the materials that were used, they are expected to last for many centuries.
Shopping
How can I buy?
There is one easy way to purchase: our web store. Upon check out, you’ll be able to pay by credit card.
Do you have a special price for resellers?
Yes, we do! Simply contact us and tell us about you and what you are looking for.
Can I view the products before ordering?
Yes. We can send you pictures of the bricks or stones that would be shipped to you. You also have the option of coming to view the bricks and stones in person. Please call us in advance on (718) 379-1232 to set up a time so we can ensure your safety.
Can I buy by the unit, pallet or truck load?
Yes, the options depend on the items. The bigger you buy, the lower the price per item. See unit, pallet and truck prices under each product on our store.
How many bricks (or stones) do I need?
We have an online brick and stone calculator. If you need assistance, you can always reach out to us of course.
Delivery
Are the bricks and stones cleaned and ready for use?
Yes. All our reclaimed bricks and stones are hand-cleaned by professional cleaners and stacked onto pallets. The nature of reclaimed bricks and stones may leave minimal paint flecks or irregularities between individual product, adding to the uniqueness of each brick and stone.
Can I pick up the bricks and stones myself?
Yes. You are welcome to pick up your bricks and stones from our yard in The Bronx, NY. We will load your truck at no additional cost. Our yard is open Monday – Friday, 7am-3:00pm. Please call us in advance on (718) 379-1232 so we can ensure the pallets are ready for you to pick up.
How are the bricks and stones delivered?
On pallets. We do not sell in bulk. Pallets are wrapped to ensure bricks and stones stay in place during transport and delivered to you in a commercial vehicle or on a flat-bed truck. Curbside delivery is available as an option at the shipping stage.
What is curbside delivery?
A curbside delivery is a delivery of the freight on wooden pallets as close as possible to the curb at a residential address from a full-size trailer truck or commercial vehicle. This does not include bringing the pallet up to, into, or around the back of the residence.
How much is delivery?
From our web store, add your products to the cart and give us a call. We'll give you an answer rapidly.
Do you deliver throughout the USA?
Yes, pretty much anywhere you want! We ship nationwide direct to your job site, in all States as well as Canada, Mexico, the Caribbean and the rest of the world. Contact us and we will provide an exact cost for your order.
When will I receive my order?
All the products shown on our website are ready for shipment in 1-3 days once the order is placed. Based on your shipping option and the destination chosen, you can expect to receive your order between 1-10 days from when it is shipped out.