The Complete Guide to Bricks for Australian Homes
Bricks have long been a preferred building material in Western Australia — and for good reason. From durability to design flexibility, bricks offer countless advantages for building a home that’s both timeless and built to last.
Whether you’re after a contemporary coastal look or a traditional finish, this guide will help you understand why brick is still one of the most reliable, sustainable and stylish materials available.
Why Choose Bricks?
Style & Colour Variety
Bricks today come in more colours, textures and sizes than ever — from crisp whites to earthy reds, moody blacks and everything in between. Want the clean lines of render without the maintenance? Smooth monochromatic face bricks with matching mortar can deliver that modern look.
Acoustic Insulation
Brick naturally absorbs sound, offering superior noise insulation compared to lighter materials. For double brick homes, this acoustic benefit is amplified — ideal for privacy and quiet living.
Energy Efficiency
Bricks help regulate indoor temperatures by absorbing and releasing heat slowly — making your home cooler in summer and warmer in winter. With heating and cooling responsible for around 39% of energy use in Australian homes, choosing bricks can significantly improve thermal performance and energy savings.
Fire Resistance
Clay bricks are kiln-fired at temperatures over 1000°C, making them naturally fire-resistant. In bushfire-prone areas, bricks can reduce the spread of flames and offer extra protection for your home.
Long-Lasting Durability
Bricks have stood the test of time – literally. With a history spanning thousands of years, they remain a reliable, weather-resistant building material capable of withstanding Australia’s harsh climate, including cyclones, storms and bushfires.
Environmentally Friendly
Made from natural materials like clay and shale, bricks are non-toxic, low-emission and allergy-friendly. Their long lifespan and minimal need for replacement make them a sustainable choice for eco-conscious homeowners.
Face Bricks: Style & Placement Matter
Face bricks are the visible bricks used on external and internal walls. They’re chosen not just for structure, but for style.
Coastal Homes
Embrace sandy tones and textures that reflect nature. Our Classic or Manor ranges pair beautifully with light mortar colours and raked joints to create a laid-back beachside aesthetic.
Contemporary Homes
For modern, clean-line architecture, explore our Contempo Madrid or Estilo ranges. Smooth surfaces and neutral tones help achieve that sleek, minimalist finish.
Urban Homes
Add edge and character with exposed internal brick walls. Our Restoration Red and Revival ranges create striking contrast and urban chic.
Classic Homes
From Federation to Colonial, the Classic range offers timeless warmth. These bricks suit homes with heritage features and traditional styling.
Brick Types & Applications
Common Bricks (Utility Bricks)
Primarily structural, these bricks are not selected for visual appeal. Not all are suitable for external use — check product specs before applying.
DIY & Landscaping
Bricks are perfect for backyard projects like fire pits, pizza ovens, retaining walls, or stylish letterboxes. They offer a durable, weather-resistant finish for any outdoor space.
Feature Walls
Create standout indoor or outdoor focal points. Bricks come in varying sizes, textures and colours to match your design vision — from rustic to modern industrial.
Brick Sizes
Different brick sizes support different visual and structural outcomes.
- Standard Brick: 230mm x 110mm x 76mm
- Manor Brick (Double Course): 290mm x 90mm x 162mm
Brick Finishes Explained
Each finish gives a unique feel to your home:
- Smooth – Sleek, straight edges ideal for modern builds
- Cut Face – Dragged texture for weathered, coastal appeal
- Rolled – Distinctive patterns and textures created during firing
- Tumbled – Uneven edges and rough texture; great for heritage or recycled-look homes
Brick Colours & Texture
From neutral creams to charcoal blacks and rich reds, the colour palette of bricks is incredibly diverse. Combine with the right mortar and finish to create contrast or harmony — depending on your design goals.
Mortar: The Finishing Touch
Mortar colour and joint style can dramatically affect the final appearance of your brickwork. Choose from:
- Natural (grey)
- White or Off-White
- Cream or Buff
- Coloured (matched to your bricks)
Explore more in our Mortar Guide.
Explore Our Brick Collections
Manor Range
Western Australia’s largest selection of two-course bricks. Great for coastal-inspired or classic Australian homes, with a timeless profile and strong presence.
Classic Range
Single-course face bricks with enduring popularity. A versatile range that complements both modern and traditional builds.
Revival Range
A vintage aesthetic meets modern engineering. Available in tumbled finishes for a rustic, recycled look that’s becoming a designer favourite.
Recycled Bricks
Loved by architects and designers, each recycled brick is unique. With weathered textures and imperfections, they make beautiful feature walls or heritage facades.
Spanish Collection
A premium European range crafted in Spain, featuring high-end finishes and cutting-edge design. Perfect for bold, contemporary statements.
Foundry Range – A carefully curated range offering two unique expressions of form, finish, and enduring style.
Ready to Build With Brick?
Midland Brick has been helping Western Australians build better for over 75 years. Whether you’re starting from scratch or renovating, our brick experts can help you find the perfect product for your project.
Visit us in South Guildford, Middle Swan, Joondalup, or Subiaco, or browse our full range online.
