Bricks
All the big brands - Austral bricks, PGH bricks and more, plus our architectural brands standing the test of time
MD Brick has built their brand from supplying bricks to trades and specifiers, with exceptional service. MD Brick has always supplied the big brands, such as Austral Bricks and PGH Bricks to satisfy the demand for these well known names.
As we have grown, MD Brick has also found premium quality boutique brands to allow our customers a point of difference in their choice of bricks. Whether you need dry pressed bricks, extruded bricks, clay bricks, concrete bricks, glazed bricks, exposure grade bricks, long bricks, face bricks or common bricks MD Brick ensures you are spoilt for choice and service.
Face Bricks
In Australia, face bricks are a popular choice for their durability and aesthetic appeal, commonly used in residential and commercial construction. They come in two main types: dry pressed bricks, known for their dense and uniform texture, and extruded bricks, which are wire-cut and offer a more textured finish. These bricks are not only used for external walls but also for feature walls, landscaping, and other decorative elements, making them versatile for architects, builders, and designers.
Common Bricks
Common bricks are an essential component for construction projects, available primarily in two materials: concrete and clay.
- Concrete commons are robust and have an exposure grade rating and are suited for structural purposes.
- Clay commons still offer structural durability often they are preferred for their aesthetic qualities and are offered in standard sizes as well as a range of other commonly used sizes.
These bricks cater to a wide range of construction needs, from backyard projects to large scale buildings, and are particularly useful for DIYers, builders, and bricklayers.
Recycled Bricks
Recycled bricks are becoming a popular choice for architects and landscapers in new and renovated building and landscaping projects in Australia. Recycled bricks can be a sustainable building choice due to their environmental benefits and unique aesthetic and charm. These bricks often come from demolished structures and are re-purpopsed to maintain quality and integrity, ideal for adding character in new constructions, renovations, and landscape projects. Their rustic charm and historical value appeal to those looking to incorporate eco-friendly materials without sacrificing style.
Due to the popularity of recycled bricks, many suppliers have also created their own ‘recycled look’ brick ranges. These bricks are specifically designed to replicate the charm and appeal of recycled bricks. Every supplier has their own take on this look giving you more options to suit your building project. There is even a reclaimed concrete brick from Island Block and Paving to rival the clay brick ranges.
Coloured Concrete Bricks
The “Bricks for the Future” range from Island Block and Paving features coloured concrete face bricks that are a smart choice for architects, landscape architects, and interior designers.
These bricks are made using sustainable practices and materials, including recycled glass, making them a greener option for building. The range includes various colours and finishes that can enhance the visual appeal of any space while maintaining high standards of environmental responsibility.
We also supply the more well known coloured concrete block ranges from Austral Masonry and Adbri Masonry.
Brick matching
Bowral Embassy Red
SKU 04AB8501Contact us today for our free brick matching service.
The most common uses for bricks
Residential or commercial building with Bricks
The most popular use for face bricks and common bricks is in the construction of residential homes and commercial buildings. Face bricks are a traditional material used in construction and offer a timeless and low maintenance solution when building a home or commercial property.
Landscaping with bricks
Dry pressed bricks and often recycled bricks are used more and more for landscaping projects now. Dry Pressed bricks can be used as a paving feature in the garden or for garden edging. Often bricks are used by landscape architects to build a feature wall for privacy or aesthetic appeal too.
Renovations with bricks
Bricks are commonly used to renovate a home or building. Often when renovating with bricks you will need to use a brickmatching service to make sure you choose the right brick or the nearest match to any existing bricks. Blending new bricks with old ones is also something that should be considered when renovating with bricks.
Frequently Asked Questions About Bricks
- Clay Bricks: Made from natural clay and shale, fired at high temperatures. They are known for their durability, natural color variations, and classic appearance.
- Concrete Bricks: Made from cement, sand, and aggregates, and are available in a variety of sizes and shapes. They are generally more uniform in color and texture.
- Benefits: Provides a smooth and modern finish, increases weather resistance, and allows for a variety of color finishes.
- Cons: Requires maintenance, can crack over time if not applied properly, and adds additional cost.
- Standard Brick Size: 230mm x 110mm x 76mm.
- Other Sizes: There are various other sizes like double bricks, utility bricks, and different specialty bricks that may vary in dimensions.
Number of Bricks: Approximately 50 standard bricks are needed per square metre of wall.
- Face Bricks: These are high-quality bricks used on the visible external and internal walls of buildings. They are chosen for their aesthetic appeal and durability.
- Typical Uses: Exterior walls, interior feature walls, and areas where appearance is important.
- Common Bricks: Lower grade bricks used mainly for structural purposes where appearance is not a priority. They might not have the same aesthetic qualities as face bricks.
- Typical Uses: Internal walls, hidden structures, rendering and foundations.
- Grades: Bricks are graded based on their durability and suitability for different environmental conditions.
- Exposure Grade (EXP): Suitable for severe exposure environments, such as coastal areas.
- General Purpose (GP): Suitable for most standard building projects.
- Protected Grade (PG): Suitable for internal walls or sheltered locations.
- Sustainability: Bricks are made from natural materials and can be recycled. They also have a long lifespan, reducing the need for frequent replacements.
- Energy Efficiency: Bricks have excellent thermal mass properties, helping to regulate indoor temperatures and reduce energy consumption.
- Thermal Mass: Bricks can absorb and store heat during the day and release it slowly at night, which helps in maintaining a consistent indoor temperature.
- Energy Savings: Bricks can significantly reduce heating and cooling costs.
Acoustic Insulation: Bricks provide excellent sound insulation, reducing noise transmission between rooms and from external sources.
Painting Bricks: Yes, bricks can be painted to achieve a desired aesthetic, but it requires proper surface preparation and the use of appropriate paint.
Calculation: Measure the area to be covered (length x height) and divide by the coverage of one brick. Don’t forget to account for mortar joints and wastage (typically add 5-10% extra).
Landscaping Uses: Bricks are commonly used for garden edging, paving, retaining walls, and decorative elements in landscaping.
Maintenance: Bricks are low-maintenance but should be inspected regularly for cracks and damage. Cleaning with water and a mild detergent is usually sufficient. Some lighter coloured bricks require sealing to prevent staining and water absorbption.
Bushfire Resistance: Clay bricks are non-combustible and can provide excellent protection in bushfire-prone areas. Look for bricks with appropriate fire resistance ratings.
Recycled Bricks: They offer environmental benefits by reducing waste and can provide a unique, weathered aesthetic. However, ensure they meet structural and quality standards for your project.
Meet the MD Brick team
The team at MD Brick are experts in the industry. Our customer service managers have all either worked in the building or landscaping industry previously or they have many years of acquired expert knowledge. We pride ourselves on offering the best service.
If you are looking for more than just Austral Bricks for your next project MD Brick has you covered.
Austral bricks are our biggest selling brick at MD Brick, but we know builders, architects, landscape architects and interior designers are often looking for something with a unique aesthetic or characteristic to them.
We want to help our customers find the best bricks for their project, and this is why we supply more than just the big brands. Our expertise and dedicated service will give you peace of mind when choosing your bricks. Contact us for more help with your bricks.