What is brick veneer you ask?
It's a common question and often asked with other questions like “what's the difference between double brick and brick veneer” and “what are the pros and cons of brick veneer'?
Well, we're here to unravel the world of brick veneer so let's get started!
What is Brick Veneer?
Put simply, it's a single layer of bricks on the outside of a home.
But, guess what? These bricks are just for show! They're not actually holding the house up. The real support is behind them, with either a timber or steel frame.
A little history. After World War II, Australia was building lots of homes fast. People wanted that classic brick look but didn't want it to cost a fortune or be too heavy like old-school full brick houses. That's when this smarter, lighter option came in. It was cheaper, looked great, and could be built quickly – perfect for the Aussie way of living.
They became super popular, popping up in suburbs all over the place. It made homes to be more flexible and cosy, all while looking fantastic. You see these homes everywhere in Australia, from the coast to the city, showing off how practical and pretty they can be.
In short, this building style has really shaped Australian neighbourhoods. It made nice-looking homes more affordable for everyone.
What's the Difference between Brick Veneer and Double Brick?
As mentioned above, brick veneer is a brick facade fixed to either a timber or steel frame so the frame is what does all the load bearing work. Then there's what called an ‘air cavity' between the brick and the frame. The air cavity acts as a moisture barrier.
Double brick (also referred to as cavity brick) on the other hand consists of two brick walls with a cavity in between. The inner side of the two brick walls, the internal wall, can either be rendered, lined or left as exposed brick.
Why Choose Brick Veneer?
Brick veneer brings with it several practical benefits that make it a favourite in the Australian housing scene.
First off, the insulation properties. Thanks to that cleverly designed air gap between the bricklayer and the internal structure, your home becomes a master at keeping cool in the scorching Aussie summers and snug during those chilly winter evenings. It's like your house knows just when to don a summer frock or wrap up in a winter coat.
Aesthetically, brick veneer offers flexibility that’s hard to beat. Whether you're after a contemporary chic look or something that leans more towards traditional charm, there's a brick style to suit your taste. Plus, changing the look of your home doesn’t require a complete overhaul—just a new ‘outfit' for its exterior.
On the financial side of things, opting for brick veneer can be kinder to your wallet than you might think. When compared to solid brick construction or other materials that offer similar levels of durability and insulation, brick veneer stands out for its cost-effectiveness.
Building and maintenance costs are generally lower, making it a smart choice in the long run for the savvy Australian homeowner.
The Pros and Cons
Advantages:
- Energy Efficiency: Thanks to its insulation capabilities, homes with brick veneer have an easier time staying warm in winter and cool in summer, which could lead to savings on energy bills.
- Ease of Installation: Constructing a brick veneer wall is generally quicker and less labour-intensive than solid brick constructions, meaning your dream home can be ready sooner and without as much fuss.
- Aesthetic Flexibility: With a wide range of brick styles and colours to choose from, updating the look of your home is as easy as pie.
Downsides:
- Durability Concerns: While incredibly sturdy, brick veneer walls are not quite as resilient as solid brick, especially in extreme conditions.
- Maintenance: Over time, you might find yourself keeping an eye out for signs of wear or damage to the outer brick layer. No home is perfect, right? But with a little love and care, these issues are more than manageable.
Making the Right Choice for Your Home
Brick veneer offers a fantastic array of options, but the best choice will always depend on your personal needs, preferences, and the unique character of your home.
Think about what you value most. Is it the superior insulation and energy efficiency that'll keep your home comfortable year-round? Perhaps it's the aesthetic flexibility that allows your home to evolve with your tastes. Or maybe the cost-effectiveness is what draws you in, knowing you're making a smart investment in your future. Whatever your priorities may be, there's likely a brick veneer solution that matches them perfectly.
Rest assured, the range of options available is diverse, from the urban chic to rustic charm, the possibilities for making your house a home are endless.
And with brick veneer, you're choosing a path that offers both style and substance.
Conclusion
Navigating the world of home design can be as daunting as it is exciting, but remember, the best choices are made when they're fully informed and reflect what truly matters to you. Brick veneer stands out as a versatile, practical, and attractive option, but only you can decide if it's the right fit for your dream home.
We encourage you to explore it further, weigh its benefits against your desires and requirements, and see how it might enhance the place you call home. Whether you're building anew or thinking of revamping your current abode, it's worth considering how this option could meet your needs.
Could brick veneer be the touch of charm your house is waiting for? Why not take the next step to find out and possibly discover the perfect match for your home sweet home?
Frequently Asked Questions
How does it impact a home's resale value?
Brick veneer can positively affect a home's resale value. Its timeless appeal, durability, and energy efficiency are attractive features to potential buyers, often resulting in a good return on investment.
Is it maintenance-intensive?
Brick veneer requires relatively low maintenance compared to other exterior finishes. Occasional cleaning and checking for any mortar damage is generally all that's needed to keep it in good condition.
Can you customise the look?
Absolutely! One of the greatest advantages of brick veneer is its versatility. You can choose from a wide range of colours, textures, and patterns to achieve the desired look and feel for your home.
How long does it last?
With proper installation and maintenance, brick veneer can last for decades, often as long as the building itself. It's considered one of the most durable siding options available.
How many bricks will I need?
This will be specific to your build and will be determined by your final house plans. Once you have this information, you can then price the quantity of your bricks accordingly
