Brick Insights - FAQs

:: Frequently asked questions
How should I best clean bricks?
New brickwork ideally should be cleaned as it is laid to effectively remove mortar smears. This can be done with a scrubbing brush, water and sponge. Established brickwork can be brushed and hosed, but for serious stains use a professional, as incorrect or harsh cleaning practices can damage the brickwork. The Clay Brick and Paver Institute has information on Cleaning Clay Masonry on its web site, www.cpbi.com.au or download brick cleaning advice here

What is the cost of upgrading bricks?
Bricks are priced in quantities of 1000, which can easily be converted to square metre coverage based on the brick size. Upgrading from a low cost Boral brick to a premium range can cost from as little as up to $1,000 extra for a typical home.
Use our online Calculator to see how much it will cost you

If I don't have water views, do I still need exposure grade bricks?
Exposure grade bricks will enhance durability in harsh environments - or when your home is located within 1 kilometre from a surf coast or 100 metres from a non-surf coast (with or without direct ocean views). Other 'aggressive' or saline environments include redeveloped industrial land with corrosive soils. Make sure you check with your architect, builder or local council before choosing your bricks.

Are bricks with holes weaker than pressed bricks?
Not necessarily. All bricks have high compressive strength and a strong load bearing capacity to Australian Standards. According to the Australian Standard, core holes of up to 30 per cent of the brick body have no effect on its insulation or fire resistant qualities. Generally speaking, wet pressed bricks have the highest level of compression strength, followed by wire cut (with holes) and dry pressed bricks.

What is the white salty powder that appears on the surface of some bricks?
Soluble salts in cement and mortar can migrate to the surface in the form of a white or sometimes yellowy green discolouration called efflorescence. This is more common in new brickwork that is still drying and will disappear over time with natural weathering. Dry brushing will help and there are specific cleaning techniques for light coloured bricks where it is more noticeable.

What is BASIX?
The Building Sustainability Index (BASIX) is a NSW Government planning tool that requires every new house, villa, townhouse or units in the state to meet specific energy and water reduction targets.

What is the 6 Star Standard?
This is the Victorian standard for all new homes and apartments from July 2005. Collaboratively established by the Building Commission, Sustainable Energy Authority and Plumbing Industry Commission, it requires that all new houses and apartments meet a 5 Star energy efficiency rating.

What is NatHERS or BERS?
The National Housing Energy Rating Scheme (NatHERS) and Building Energy Rating Scheme (BERS) are energy simulation computer programs that provide thermal ratings for homes. They are employed during the design stage to enhance the energy efficiency of a new development.

Within Boral Bricks, our employees are responsible for the quality of their efforts and recognise their part in meeting the customer's requirements. We are highly conscious of the need to satisfy our customers, and all our employees are committed to the achievement of high quality and customer satisfaction.

Why should I build in brick?
There are so many benefits to building with clay bricks, including strength, durability, appearance and superior thermal and sound insulation properties.

Do bricks fade?
No. Natural clay bricks and pavers do not fade as oxides are kiln-fired into the body of bricks, not applied as a coating. Any change in appearance over time is due to environmental soiling or pollution settling on the surface, in which case we would recommend a professional clean.

Does mortar colour really matter?
Yes. Mortar makes up around 15 per cent of a brick wall's surface area and has a surprisingly big impact on the overall look of the bricks, and hence your home. Also consider which mortar joint to use well ahead of bricklaying.

How am I assured of a quality product?
Boral Bricks products are manufactured to the highest Australian Standards. We are regularly assessed against the strict International Standard ISO9001 for Quality Management Systems, and have been awarded the widely recognised symbol for a quality endorsed company.

Can I get bricks to renovate a home I built 30 years ago?
Boral has made many different shapes, colours and textures of bricks and pavers over the years. Often we produce small amounts of "Renovator's Range" bricks that were originally made many years ago.* Please bring in a sample brick, or take a photo of the brick or pavers you would like to match and our Sales staff will help you find the closest match for your project.

Do you have samples?
All Boral Brick yards can supply you with samples, providing they have samples available of the particular product you require. Samples may be also picked up from Boral Display Centres with prior notice. Alternatively request a sample online using Boral's (Architectural) CHIP Express sample service for professionally presented brick colours and textures.

Why do some bricks look different, even though they are the same type?
Bricks are made from clay, which is a natural product and can have variations. This variation adds to the distinctive look and character of clay bricks. We recommend some of our bricks and pavers are personally selected as they may vary in size and texture because each firing creates a very individual look to achieve the traditional character. Our 'Handmade' range of bricks and pavers can have greater variation than other types of bricks and pavers as they have been made to appeal to those who favour rustic charm.* Our Sales Advisors will be pleased to help you select bricks for your project.

Where is my closest Display Centre and when is it open?
To find your closest display centre and its opening times, enter your postcode or suburb into our Display Centres location finder (WA).

Where can my product be delivered?
Our policy is to deliver to the front verge/nature strip of an established property. This helps reduces your waiting time as much as possible, helps us avoid any damage to your property, and enables deliveries to be as quick and streamlined as possible. Should you need your product delivered somewhere other than your front verge/nature strip, please contact your Boral Sales Advisor.

Can you transfer stock to a branch closer to me?
Larger amounts of stock are held at our production facilities regionally, with smaller amounts of stock held at each of our yards.* Generally we do not transfer stock between branches. Depending on the order and delivery destination, additional charges and delivery lead times may apply.

*Available WA only.