Brick Building

Start by matching the brick type to your application:

• Face bricks – kiln-fired units with precise edges and colours designed to remain exposed.
• Common bricks – cost-effective blocks destined for rendering or cladding.
• Engineering bricks – high-density units ideal for retaining walls, basements and flood-prone zones.
• Recycled bricks – character pieces that reduce embodied carbon and add instant patina.

Next, calculate quantities early. Wondering how many bricks to build a house? A single-storey 150 m² dwelling generally needs 9,000–11,000 standard units, but variations in bond pattern, openings and wastage allowances can shift the figure. Your supplier can run precise take-offs from plans.

All bricks sold on ArchiPro comply with AS 4455 Masonry Units and AS 3700 Masonry Structures, and meet relevant provisions of the National Construction Code. Check durability ratings (DW0–DW3) for exposure zones, and specify R-value upgrades through cavity insulation or insulated veneer systems when thermal comfort is critical.

• Hot & dry: Choose light-coloured bricks to reflect heat and reduce cooling loads.
• Tropical & cyclone-rated: Combine reinforced cavity construction with quality structural framing connectors.
• Coastal: Opt for salt-resistant bricks and stainless-steel ties.

Brickwork rarely stands alone. Consider the intersection with complementary products available across our Products catalogue:

• Upgrade exterior walls with ventilated panels from Cladding & Facades.
• Boost comfort using high-performance batts in the Insulation range.
• Match brick sills to metal or tile options in Roofing.
• Integrate steel lintels from Construction Equipment and Supplies for larger openings.
• Select thermally broken frames in Windows & Doors to minimise bridging.
• Design compliant escape paths with Stairs, Lifts & Access.
• Specify cavity closers from our Fire Safety collection for BAL zones.
• Explore modular Prefabricated Buildings that incorporate brick skins.
• Streamline site logistics via Construction 4.0 digital tools.
• Add PV panels from Solar Electric Systems without compromising roof masonry.
• Plan basement access using Car Parking Solutions.
• Top-up mortars and angles from Building Supplies.
• Integrate stormwater stackwork from Plumbing Supplies.
• Secure openings with sensors from Security & Access.
• Finish interiors seamlessly with Interior Wall Lining.
• Protect drinking lines using Water Filtration Systems.
• Run concealed cabling from our Electrical range.
• Control runoff around brick footings via Water Management & Filtration.

1. Set out accurately. A tight string line ensures plumb, level courses and reduces re-work.
2. Use the right mortar. For most face brickwork a M3 (1:1:6) lime-cement-sand mix offers flexibility and strength.
3. Control moisture. Protect pallets on site and cover fresh work for 24 hours to avoid efflorescence.
4. Don’t skimp on ties. Stainless or hot-dip galvanised wall ties at 600 mm centres are mandatory in coastal zones.
5. Finish cleanly. Apply dilute hydrochloric acid only after mortar has cured for seven days.

In Australia, standard clay commons start around $1.20 each, while premium glazed or clinker face bricks can exceed $3.50. Labour averages $55–$85 per square metre depending on bond complexity, site access and whether you’re building a brick wall, fireplace or outdoor kitchen. Early engagement with suppliers on ArchiPro locks in quantities, colour batches and delivery timeframes, helping keep budgets predictable.

Ready to move from plans to site? Browse our curated brick building products, request samples and connect instantly with vetted tradespeople-every resource you need for a resilient, beautiful build is just a click away.