How Much Does a Brick Garage Cost?

A brick garage is one of the most durable and secure options for homeowners in Australia. Not only does it provide safe storage for vehicles and belongings, but it also enhances the value and appearance of a property. Brick garages are popular because they’re low-maintenance, weather-resistant, and blend seamlessly with many home designs.

But how much does it cost to build one? The answer depends on several factors, from the size of the garage to the quality of bricks, roofing, and added features like insulation or automatic doors. On average, a brick garage is more expensive than a prefabricated steel garage, but it can last for decades and often adds more to your property’s long-term value.

This guide will explore the main factors that affect costs, average price ranges in Australia, and tips for saving money while still building a strong and functional brick garage.

What Factors Affect the Cost of a Brick Garage?

Several key elements influence the total cost of building a brick garage:

Size of the garage – A single-car garage is cheaper to build than a double or custom-sized garage. Larger structures require more bricks, labour, roofing, and foundation work.

Brick type and materials – Standard clay bricks are cost-effective, while premium or custom-coloured bricks increase expenses. Mortar, roof type (tiles, Colorbond, or concrete), and windows also add to the cost.

Foundation and site preparation – Excavation, levelling, and laying a strong concrete foundation are essential for structural stability. Sloping or difficult sites will increase costs due to extra labour and materials.

Labour and location – Building rates vary depending on where you live. Metro areas tend to be more expensive than regional ones due to higher labour costs.

Garage doors and access – A standard manual door is more affordable, while an automatic roller or panel lift door adds to the price. Adding internal access to your home also increases labour and structural work.

Insulation and finishes – If you plan to use the garage for more than just storage — such as a workshop or home gym — insulation, flooring, and interior finishes will raise the cost.

Permits and approvals – Most councils require building permits for a brick garage. The cost of approvals, inspections, and paperwork should be factored into the total budget.

Average Cost of a Brick Garage in Australia

The cost of building a brick garage in Australia varies based on its size, materials, and finishes. As a general guide:

• Single-car brick garage: $20,000 – $35,000.

• Double-car brick garage: $35,000 – $60,000.

• Custom or large brick garage: $60,000+.

When broken down by size, a brick garage typically costs $1,200 – $2,000 per square metre. This includes materials, labour, and standard finishes but not extras like insulation, electrical work, or high-end garage doors.

While brick garages are more expensive than prefabricated or steel options, they are highly durable, low-maintenance, and add long-term value to your property.

Brick Garage Cost Breakdown by Project Type

Building a brick garage involves several stages, each contributing to the total cost:

• Foundation and site preparation: $5,000 – $10,000. Costs depend on soil type, site slope, and whether excavation or levelling is needed.

• Bricklaying and structure: $10,000 – $25,000. This covers the brickwork, mortar, and structural build of the garage walls. Premium bricks or custom finishes will increase costs.

• Roofing: $5,000 – $12,000. The price depends on whether you choose tile, metal (such as Colorbond), or concrete roofing.

• Garage doors: $2,000 – $6,000. Manual roller doors are cheaper, while automatic or insulated panel-lift doors cost more.

• Windows and doors: $1,000 – $3,000. Adding natural light or extra access points raises the budget.

• Electrical work: $1,500 – $4,000. Includes lighting, power outlets, and wiring for automatic doors.

• Interior finishes: $2,000 – $6,000. This covers plastering, painting, flooring, or insulation if you plan to use the garage as a workshop or multi-purpose space.

• Labour costs: Usually make up 40% – 60% of the total build, depending on location and complexity.

Hidden or Additional Costs

While the main expenses of building a brick garage are easy to budget for, there are several hidden costs that homeowners should keep in mind. Council permits and approvals are almost always required, and fees can vary significantly depending on your location. If your property is sloped or has unstable soil, extra excavation and foundation reinforcement may be needed, which can add thousands to the total.

Other potential costs include electrical connections for lighting, power points, or automatic garage doors, as well as plumbing if you plan to include a laundry or bathroom inside the garage. Adding or extending a driveway to match your new garage is another often-overlooked expense. Finally, factor in ongoing maintenance — while brick is low-maintenance, garage doors and roofing may still require servicing over time.

Benefits of Building a Brick Garage

A brick garage offers several advantages compared to prefabricated or lightweight structures. The most significant benefit is durability. Brick walls withstand harsh weather conditions, resist fire, and last for decades with minimal upkeep. They also provide excellent security, making them ideal for protecting vehicles, tools, and other valuables.

From a design perspective, brick garages often enhance kerb appeal, blending seamlessly with the home’s existing exterior. They can be customised to include windows, internal access to the house, or even loft storage, making them versatile for more than just parking cars.

Finally, a well-built brick garage can increase property value. Buyers see it as a premium feature, especially in suburban or urban areas where secure parking and extra storage are in high demand. This makes it both a practical addition and a long-term investment.

How to Save on Brick Garage Costs

Although brick garages can be a major investment, there are ways to keep costs under control. One of the simplest strategies is to stick to a standard size and design. Custom dimensions, unique roof shapes, or architectural details quickly add to labour and material costs.

Choosing standard bricks and roofing materials rather than premium finishes also helps reduce expenses without sacrificing quality. If you’re building other structures or renovations at the same time, consider bundling projects to save on labour and contractor call-out fees.

Timing can also affect costs — building during off-peak seasons may lower labour rates. And, as always, it’s important to compare multiple quotes from licensed brick garage builders. This not only ensures you get the best price but also allows you to assess experience, workmanship, and included services before making a decision.

Finding the Right Brick Garage Builder

Building a brick garage is a major investment, so choosing the right professional is essential. Unlike prefabricated garages, a brick garage requires skilled bricklayers, concreters, and roofers to ensure the structure is solid, compliant with regulations, and built to last.

When hiring a builder, make sure to:

• Check licensing and insurance – your builder should hold the required licences in your state and carry insurance for both workers and liability.

• Review past projects – ask for photos or site visits of garages they’ve built to confirm their quality of workmanship.

• Request detailed quotes – ensure the quote includes all aspects: excavation, foundations, brickwork, roofing, garage doors, and electrical work if required.

• Ask about timelines – building a brick garage can take several weeks, depending on size and complexity, so confirm a realistic schedule.

• Get references – speaking to previous clients can help you gauge reliability, communication, and aftercare service.

To make the process simpler, The Tradie List connects homeowners with licensed and experienced brick garage builders in their area. By visiting thetradielist.com, you can request multiple quotes, compare builders, and hire with confidence.