Red Bricks

Why red bricks remain a design classic

Few materials balance character and durability like red bricks. Their deep iron-rich tones complement sandstone, concrete and timber, making them equally at home on a coastal bungalow or a sleek office fit-out. High compressive strength, fire resistance and excellent thermal mass translate to lower energy bills and reduced maintenance—compelling reasons both builders and homeowners continue to specify red brick walls, pavements and landscaping features.

Types of red bricks you’ll find on ArchiPro

• Pressed clay bricks – crisp arrises, ideal for precise, formal façades.
• Wire-cut bricks – subtle textures that soften modern elevations.
• Glazed  finishes – saturated, easy-clean surfaces for cafés or retail fronts.
• Roman and slim formats – longer modules that accentuate horizontal lines on contemporary builds.
• Red brick pavers – perfect for driveways, courtyards and slip-resistant pool surrounds.
• Recycled red bricks – aged patina and lower embodied energy for sustainable projects.

Key specifications to compare

Before you click ‘Request a quote’, review the product data sheets. Critical metrics include:

• Compressive strength – typically 20–50 MPa; higher grades suit load-bearing red brick houses and warehouses.
• Durability grade – Exposure (EXP) bricks resist salt attack in coastal regions.
• Dimensions & tolerances – Consistency eases laying and reduces mortar wastage.
• Water absorption – Lower rates minimise efflorescence and staining.
• Thermal conductivity – Influences the overall R-value of your wall system.
• Slip resistance (pavers) – Check P-rating for red brick pavement around pools.

The National Construction Code sets minimum performance standards for masonry; always verify your chosen product meets local site classifications.

Design ideas & colour pairings

Contemporary schemes

Pair deep brick red hues with black window frames and off-form concrete for an industrial look, or soften the palette with pale timber battens. Vertical gardens and green facades provide natural contrast while boosting urban biodiversity.

Heritage restorations

Match recycled red bricks with lime mortar for breathable walls in Federation-style cottages. Complement with exterior decorative mouldings and tuck-pointed joints to maintain period authenticity.

Outdoor paving

Herringbone or basket-weave red brick pavements lend texture to garden paths. Add soldier courses as visual borders, and integrate contrasting clay pavers for direction changes.

Budget & procurement tips

• Plan early – Lead times can extend during peak construction seasons.
• Factor wastage – Allow 5–10 % extra for cuts, colour variations and future repairs.
• Compare installation costs – Labour for a complex red brick wall pattern may outweigh material savings.
• Consider blends – Mixing two batches mitigates shade banding on large façades.

Ready to source materials? Browse our full range below, shortlist favourites, then request multiple quotes to keep suppliers competitive.

Alternative façade materials

If you’re still evaluating options, explore these curated categories within our broader cladding & facades collection:

• Timber cladding
• Metal cladding
• Masonry and stone
• Fibre cement cladding
• Pre-cladding
• Render plaster systems
• Concrete cladding
• Flashing penetrations
• uPVC cladding
• Eaves and soffits
• Glazed facade systems
• Composite cladding
• Facade screens
• Exterior decorative mouldings
• Green facades
• Weatherboard cladding
• Timber shingles

Whatever material you choose, ArchiPro makes specification simple: detailed product data, side-by-side comparisons and direct access to Australia’s most trusted suppliers—all in one streamlined platform.