How to choose the best brick cladding for your home

A popular home building and cladding option since the 16th Century, brick remains among the more reliable materials on offer in terms of fire resistance, insulation, durability and low moisture absorption.

If the exterior cladding is considered the home’s ‘skin’, then brick would be that of Clark Kent – understated, timeless and an almost impenetrable field. Bricks don't require exterior painting - and can last a lifetime. One of the more omnipresent building materials for cladding, brick is a safe option in many ways, not least because of the number of brick distributors making sourcing a breeze.

Taking brick cladding to a new level with designer bricks

If traditional class, timeless appeal and an inviting first impression is the goal, then designer bricks are the perfect solution. With a wide selection of colours, textures and finishes to choose from, designer bricks provide high quality, durable option that will ensure your home retains its breath-taking appeal for decades.  Whether it is a minimalist, clean and natural look, or a more current approach that encompasses other modern materials, designer bricks will provide the perfect finish. With suppliers offering ranges sourced everywhere from Europe to New Zealand, and styles across the spectrum – artisan, vintage, industrial and beyond, brick is no longer just for the traditional home.

What is the range of brick colours?

Colour is always an important consideration when looking at exterior cladding options. With brick, you will find a surprising array of colour and finishing options, far beyond the traditional rustic red that immediately springs to mind when brick is mentioned. Ranging from ultra-light cream, to a limestone hue, sandstone feel, ultra-white, grey or midnight black, the range of brick cladding colours is sure to surprise. 

Lately, clay brick has developed far from its origins and the traditional notion of terracotta colour, with the growing use of the glass brick - a strikingly contemporary option. 

Is brick veneer a cost-effective option?Brick veneer is another option for those who love the ‘brick look’ but are not in the market for traditional brick cladding. Brick veneer is an outer layer of brick installed in front of, but separate from, a standard timber framing. Since an entire brick isn’t technically needed for siding, the front face of a brick may be all that needs to be used – resulting in the option of brick veneer. If cladding costs are a consideration, then brick veneer provides a more cost effective  option while retaining the classic ‘brick look and feel’.

Top banner image credit: McCormacks Bay House from Chaplin Crooks Architects