Brick veneer: a smart way to build in WA

For generations, double brick homes have been the traditional choice for Western Australian families. It’s a building method that’s familiar, trusted, and has stood the test of time.

Interestingly, while double brick is the traditional choice in WA, across the rest of Australia, brick veneer is the most widely used building method, where it’s appreciated for its range of practical advantages.

One of the biggest advantages of brick veneer is the construction process itself.

“In a market where demand for materials and trades can impact schedules, brick veneer offers a more streamlined path to getting into your new home sooner,” WA Country Builders and The Rural Building Co. General Manager Tony Harvie says.

“Because the home’s internal frame is built first, the roof can be installed before external brickwork begins. This allows the home to be locked up sooner, reducing exposure to weather delays and helping construction progress more efficiently.”

Modern brick veneer homes are designed with comfort in mind, as a high-performance insulation system sits between the external brickwork and internal wall frame, helping to keep your home cooler in summer and warmer in winter. Combined with modern building practices and moisture control systems, brick veneer creates an energy-efficient home that performs well in a variety of climates.

This is particularly beneficial across regional WA, where temperature extremes can be common.

Brick veneer uses fewer bricks and generally requires less labour than traditional double brick construction. This can result in lower construction costs while still delivering the classic look and durability of a brick home.

Western Australia presents unique building challenges, from coastal environments and varying weather conditions through to reactive soils in some regions.

Brick veneer is particularly well suited to these conditions. Its lighter construction places less stress on the home’s slab and can perform exceptionally well on reactive clay sites. Modern vapour-permeable membranes and moisture management systems also help protect the home in coastal and temperate environments.

Brick veneer offers homeowners a wide range of design possibilities.

Whether you prefer the traditional appearance of face brick, a modern rendered facade, or a combination of brick, timber, steel or cladding materials, brick veneer provides flexibility to create a home that reflects your style and suits its surroundings.

It also makes future renovations or layout changes easier should your family’s needs evolve over time.

“The WA building industry is currently experiencing ongoing brick supply constraints, with restrictions now affecting both face bricks and maxi bricks,” Tony Harvie says.

“For some homeowners, this has created an opportunity to consider brick veneer as a practical alternative that can help minimise supply-related impacts while still delivering the quality, appearance and performance expected from a modern WA home.”

Whether you’re building in Albany, Geraldton, Bunbury, Busselton or anywhere across regional Western Australia, brick veneer offers a proven, energy-efficient and cost-effective construction method that suits modern living.

With over 30 years of experience building homes across WA, our team can help you explore the best construction option for your block, budget and lifestyle.