Hey there, fellow brick enthusiasts! Let’s cut to the chase: if your home’s exterior were a pizza, bricks would be the crust—solid, reliable, and always in style. But what’s a great crust without toppings? That’s where cladding swoops in. At The Brick Pit (yep, we’re your Aussie brick whisperers), we’ve seen firsthand how pairing bricks with the right cladding can transform a “meh” façade into a jaw-dropper. So grab a cuppa, and let’s geek out over mortar, recycled bricks, and why your neighbor’s brick path low-key gives us envy.
Why Brick & Cladding Are the Ultimate Power Couple
Picture this: bricks are the steady, timeless partner, while cladding is the flashy, modern sidekick. Together? Magic. Cladding adds texture, color, and insulation, while bricks handle durability and that classic charm. Pro tip: Mixing materials like timber, metal, or stone with bricks creates contrast without clashing. Think of it as a fashion statement for your house—no fedoras required.
And hey, let’s talk mortar. It’s the unsung hero holding everything together. Choose the wrong color, and your masterpiece could look like a toddler’s art project. At The Brick Pit, we’ve rescued more than a few DIYers from mortar mishaps. Trust us: gray mortar for subtlety, white for contrast, and never skip the weatherproofing.
Types of Bricks: Your New Best Friends (or Frenemies)
Not all bricks are created equal. Some are divas; others are workhorses. Here’s the lowdown:
- Red bricks: The O.G. of bricks. Timeless, affordable, and perfect for that rustic vibe.
- Sandstock bricks: Rough-textured and sun-kissed. IMO, these are Australia’s answer to coastal charm.
- Paving bricks: Thicker, tougher, and ideal for brick paths or driveways. FYI, they laugh in the face of heavy foot traffic.
- Recycled bricks: Eco-friendly with a side of character. Second-hand bricks tell stories—scuffs, chips, and all.
Hot take: If your brick garden edging looks too pristine, it’s missing soul. Reclaimed bricks add instant history, even if your garden’s only three months old.
How Many Bricks Per m2? (Spoiler: Math Is Involved)
Let’s tackle the question we all dread: How many bricks do I actually need? Cue the cold sweat. But relax—we’ve got your back. Here’s a cheat sheet:
| Brick Type | Size (mm) | Bricks Per m² |
|---|---|---|
| Standard Red | 230 x 110 x 76 | 48 |
| Sandstock | 230 x 110 x 76 | 48 |
| Paving | 200 x 100 x 50 | 50 |
| Reclaimed (varies) | 220 x 105 x 70 | ~45 |
Pro tip: Always order 10% extra. Because nothing’s worse than running out mid-project (unless you enjoy explaining a half-finished wall to your in-laws).
Design Hacks: From “Basic” to “Showstopper” in 3 Steps
1. Brick Paths That Don’t Scream “1970s Suburbia”
Swap straight lines for herringbone or basketweave patterns. Add reclaimed bricks for a cobblestone vibe. Pair with lush greenery, and boom—instant English garden.
2. Cladding Combos That Play Nice
- Brick + Timber: Warmth meets ruggedness. Perfect for farmhouse feels.
- Brick + Metal: Industrial chic. Bonus points for rusted accents.
- Brick + Stone: Luxe AF. Just don’t blame us when guests never leave.
3. Edging That Actually Edges
Brick garden edging isn’t just functional—it’s framing. Bury bricks vertically, stagger heights, or mix colors. FYI, The Brick Pit offers custom cuts if you’re feeling fancy.
Recycled Bricks: Because “New” Is Overrated
Confession: We’re suckers for second-hand bricks. They’ve got patina, quirks, and a lower carbon footprint. Use them for feature walls, fire pits, or that Instagram-worthy brick path your followers will drool over.
But wait: Not all recycled bricks are structural superheroes. Some are better suited for decorative work. Let us help you pick the right ones—because nobody wants a crumbling BBQ area.
3 Questions We Get Asked Daily (Besides “Got Coffee?”)
1. “Can I mix brick types?”
Absolutely! Just keep mortar colors consistent. Red bricks + sandstock = chef’s kiss.
2. “Are recycled bricks cheaper?”
Often, yes—but pricing depends on rarity. 19th-century convict bricks? Prepare to sell a kidney.
3. “What’s the best cladding for Aussie weather?”
Metal and fiber cement. They’re like sunscreen for your house.
Ready to Brick It Out?
At The Brick Pit, we live for this stuff. Whether you’re after sandstock bricks for a coastal retreat or paving bricks for a path that’ll outlive us all, we’ve got your back. Swing by our yard, shoot us a call, or just daydream on our website. Because life’s too short for boring exteriors.
Final thought: If your house were a Netflix show, brick and cladding would be the plot twist everyone talks about. Let’s make it binge-worthy.
