Double Brick vs Brick Veneer: Which Is Better for Perth Homes?

Double brick houses have been popular in Perth for a long time. Since the 1920s, full masonry construction has been extremely common throughout Western Australia. But that has changed now. In 2025, the NCC 7-star energy efficiency rating was enforced in WA. That’s why homeowners are now looking beyond double brick construction. One popular option that people are turning to is brick veneer. This has led to the double brick vs brick veneer debate raging all over Perth. Check out this blog to know more about these two and find out which might be the better option for you. 

What Is the Difference Between Double Brick and Brick Veneer Construction?

Double brick and brick veneer homes can appear identical from the outside, but are actually different when it comes to construction. It’s crucial to know how each construction method operates since it influences various aspects, such as cost, energy efficiency, insulation, resale value, and maintenance in the Perth climate. They need to be compared in terms of performance, cost and long-term benefits before making judgments about which one to choose. 

What is a double brick?

Double brick construction is the use of two layers of brickwork with a gap of about 50mm between the layers. The two layers are structural, that is, the walls support the structure of the house. These homes are thick, dense and tough. They also have good acoustics and excellent thermal mass.

What is brick veneer?

Brick veneer houses are those where the exterior is covered with brick on one side of the house, and the other side is covered with timber or steel. The support structure of the building is provided by the frame, and the outer facade of the building is made of brick. It is a light, quick and easy-to-insulate system that meets current code requirements.

What is reverse brick veneer?

The reverse brick veneer system has the brickwork inside, and insulation and light cladding outside. This system offers better thermal efficiency. It is now being used more and more in Perth eco-builds that aim for high NatHERS ratings.

Comparison of Double Brick, Brick Veneer and Reverse Brice Veneer Construction

Feature	Double Brick	Brick Veneer	Reverse Brick Veneer
Structure	Two brick walls that serve as the structure	The frame carries the load	Comes with internal thermal mass
Weight	Heavy	Light	Medium
Thickness of walls	250mm to 280mm	110mm to 160mm	Varies
Build speed	Slower	Faster	Moderate
Typical Perth wall cost	$120 – $180/m²	$50 – $80/m²	$140 – $220/m²

 

Which Construction Method Costs More to Build in Perth?

Perth’s local brick industry helps to keep the cost of masonry construction competitive.

• The brick veneer Perth homes cost around $50 – $80/m², including supply and installation.
• The double brick cost per m² is around $120 – $180/m², including supply and installation.

Although the double brick construction cost in Perth is higher overall, the gap is much smaller in Perth than in the eastern states.

In general, double brick can make up around 8% – 12% of the total expense of a building. This is partly because of the greater engineering requirements. Double brick homes in Perth require sturdier slabs and foundations to accommodate the extra load from the brick wall.

Brick veneer houses are lighter, and this can save on slab costs and construction time. That is why veneer systems are still popular among first-time home buyers and investors.

How Does the NCC 7-Star Energy Requirement Change the Decision?

The Government of Western Australia (WA) has introduced a mandatory NCC 7-star energy efficiency rating for wall systems from 1 May 2025, which has implications for the way wall systems are assessed.

In the past, most Perth houses were constructed with only thermal mass. It’s not sufficient anymore.

The R-value of uninsulated double brick walls is generally 0.6, and it is not up to the current level of R-value requirements.

Performance can be improved by using cavity insulation (blown wool or Supafil) to increase it to around R1.9.

Many Perth bricklayers choose veneer systems because they usually meet today’s modern standards well, due to the ease of fitting insulation batts between the wall frames. Bricks veneered with R2.5 batts can provide a total wall R-value of approximately R2.68.

When designed correctly, reverse brick veneer can achieve even higher ratings and reach 10-star NatHERS ratings.

Modern double-brick homes in Perth can be a good choice. But they now require proper cavity insulation to meet the current code requirements.

Which Is Better for Perth’s Climate — Double Brick or Brick Veneer?

Perth’s climate creates different thermal challenges compared to Sydney or Melbourne. Long dry summers and cool evenings affect how each wall system behaves. So, are double brick houses better in Perth? 

Double brick houses heat up slowly during the day and cool down slowly at night. It is effective in mild winters, but on hot nights in Perth (25°C+), the walls may keep giving off heat for a long time after the sun sets. If you don’t have cross-ventilation in the interior, it could remain warm late into the night.

During cool winter months, brick veneer houses cool off quicker than the heavier frame houses due to the lighter weight construction. This fits well with Perth’s day-to-night temperature difference.

Double brick is often chosen for residential bricklaying in Perth because it is acoustically more effective:

• Double brick: STC around 50
• Brick veneer exterior: STC between 40 and 50

Moisture problems aren’t a problem with either because of the dry climate of Perth.

Which Construction Type Has Higher Resale Value in Perth’s Property Market?

So, which one offers better resale value: brick veneer or double brick? Double brick construction is a significant feature in property listings in WA, and is still a great feature in many eastern states when it comes to selling a home. Another reason why double brick houses sell faster in Perth suburbs is that they are highly durable.

But brick veneer is not necessarily a bad investment. Brick veneer can provide more economic benefit to investors and first home buyers because:

• The brick veneer construction cost in Perth is lower. 
• There are ways to make energy compliance easier.
• Build times are generally quicker.

In practical terms:

• First home buyers tend to get more benefit from brick veneer with good insulation.
• Investors can get a better return on investment with lower initial investments.
• Customers who buy luxury homes are still seen to prefer insulated double brick.

Quick-Reference Comparison: Double Brick vs Brick Veneer for Perth Homes

Feature	Double Brick	Brick Veneer
Installation cost	Higher ($120 – $180/m²)	Lower ($50 – $80/m²)
Thermal mass	Excellent	Moderate
Energy efficiency compliance	Requires cavity insulation	Easier with batts
Noise reduction	Excellent	Good
Fire resistance	Excellent	Very good
Renovation ease	Harder	Easier
Build time	Slower	Faster
Perth resale value	Higher	Moderate

Final Verdict

• Best for premium resale value: Double brick with cavity filling.
• Best value and 7-star compliant: Brick veneer, R2.5 insulation
• Best for eco-homes: Reverse brick veneer

Which Construction Type Should You Choose Based on Your Perth Suburb and Budget?

So, is double brick better than brick veneer? The right construction method often depends on where you are building in Perth and how much flexibility you have in your budget. Consider your area, buyer expectations, the climate, resale values and more when deciding on double brick or brick veneer. Here are some suggestions:

Coastal Suburbs

Double brick construction is a popular choice in areas such as Cottesloe, City Beach and Scarborough because of its durability. Choosing this type of construction means less money spent on brick repairs over the years. The thermal mass is also effective in coastal areas, where nighttime sea breezes will naturally cool houses.

Prestige Inner Suburbs

In certain suburbs like Subiaco, Claremont and Nedlands, double brick continues to be the choice of many for both residential and commercial bricklaying. It aligns with the character and long-term value of these areas.

Northern Family Suburbs

For areas such as Joondalup and Wanneroo, either type of construction will work as long as it fits the budget and desired lifestyle. Typically, brick veneer with quality insulation proves to be a comfortable, energy-efficient and affordable option for growing families.

Southern and Outer Suburbs

When it comes to modern homes, brick veneer is a better choice in suburbs where the cost is a concern, such as Rockingham and Baldivis. It helps in maintaining the cost of construction at a level comparable with the values of the local property while complying with the current energy requirements.

Perth Hills

Double brick could be suitable for locations like Kalamunda, Mundaring and Serpentine due to its durability and bush fire protection. But the slopes and the reactivity of the soil could add to the engineering and foundation expenses.

First Home Buyers Anywhere in Perth

If buyers are more focused on low initial installation expenses and the simplicity of achieving a 7-star rating, brick veneer is typically the more cost-effective option. When correctly designed, it is capable of providing top-notch comfort and energy efficiency in Perth’s climate.

Conclusion

There is no “best” construction method. The double brick resale value is higher. It also appeals to premium buyers and offers excellent acoustics. However, brick veneer is more affordable and is quicker to build. Your neighbourhood and budget will determine the right option. In fact, for many homeowners in Perth, the best choice is not the most traditional, but the one that fits their future lifestyle.

Disclaimer: All costs mentioned in this article are estimates only and may vary depending on site conditions, builder specifications, material availability, engineering requirements, and market conditions across Perth.