How to Renovate a Brick & Tile Home in NZ (70s–80s)
- TopBuilders
- May 9
- 4 min read
Brick and tile homes built in New Zealand during the 1970s and 80s are still going strong. Known for their solid construction and low-maintenance exteriors, these houses were built for families and practicality. While the structure often holds up well, the interior can feel tired. If you're living in one or looking to buy, you might be wondering how to bring it into the present without losing the charm that made it appealing in the first place.
What are 1970s to 1980s Brick and Tile Homes
These homes are almost always single-storey and built with a timber frame wrapped in brick veneer. The roofs are typically made of concrete tiles, with gabled or hip rooflines. Foundations may be concrete slab or timber piles depending on the site. Inside, the kitchens were often built in a U or L shape, sometimes tucked away in a corner or partially open to the dining area. Living and dining spaces may be combined or separated depending on the original floorplan, with renovations often opening up these areas to better suit modern lifestyles.
Bathrooms were kept functional, with most homes offering just one or one and a half bathrooms unless they’ve already been updated. Flooring usually included carpet over either a timber subfloor or directly on concrete, which can lead to cold spots in winter.
Are Brick and Tile Homes Good?
Brick and tile homes from this era are generally considered a smart buy thanks to their durability and low upkeep. The brick veneer needs little attention beyond the occasional clean, and the timber framing is easy to work with for renovations. These houses were built at a time when layouts began to make more sense, with defined spaces but not overly closed-off rooms. The structure provides a strong base for updates, and many homeowners find the bones are ideal for modern living with just a few tweaks.
How to Modernise a 1970s Brick House
The best place to start when modernising is the layout. Many original brick and tile homes were designed with separate kitchen, dining, and living areas. Removing walls or partial dividers to create an open-plan space can transform how the house feels and functions. Updating the kitchen with more bench space, soft-close cabinetry, and better lighting is another easy win. Swap out heavy carpets for engineered timber or polished concrete to bring warmth and style to the space. Bathrooms usually benefit from a full refresh, with new tiling and better ventilation.
How to Add Insulation to an Old Brick Home
If you're still dealing with cold floors and drafty corners, insulation should be high on your list. Brick veneer homes often weren’t insulated well, especially in the walls. Ceiling insulation is usually the easiest place to start, followed by underfloor if access allows. On a concrete slab, adding thermal underlay and quality flooring can help. Wall insulation is more involved, especially if you're keeping the brick exterior intact, but it’s possible when renovating the interior linings. Some homeowners also retrofit double glazing or secondary glazing to retain heat and reduce noise.
Opportunities and Issues When Renovating a Brick and Tile Home
Renovating a 70s or 80s brick home in NZ brings plenty of opportunity to increase comfort and value. The layout often has good potential, and the strong frame can usually handle modifications. These houses also tend to be in established suburbs with decent land size and mature gardens.
There are, however, a few issues to watch for. Asbestos may be present in ceilings, eaves, or wall linings, so it’s best to test before doing any demolition. You might also find cold, uninsulated floors, and outdated electrical systems. Brick veneer can hide moisture problems if flashings or windows aren’t in good condition, so a building inspection is a smart move before you begin.
What are common issues with brick veneer homes?
Brick veneer itself is generally reliable, but the problems come when it’s not properly maintained. You might see cracking mortar, poor drainage, or dated joinery around windows. Since the bricks are only a cladding, they don’t hold up the house, but any water penetration through gaps can affect the timber frame behind. It’s worth checking ventilation in wall cavities and roof spaces too, especially in homes that haven’t been updated in decades.
If You're Thinking About How to Renovate a Brick & Tile Home in NZ
Start with a clear plan that respects the solid bones while aiming to improve warmth, flow, and functionality. Removing walls to open up the kitchen and living areas can instantly bring life back into the home. Insulating ceilings, floors, and eventually walls will make it more comfortable year-round.
Don’t overlook the simple stuff either—good lighting, clean lines, and fresh materials go a long way. If you’re wondering how to renovate a Brick & Tile home in NZ, the key is to work with its strengths while carefully modernising the layout, finishes, and efficiency. You’ll end up with a home that still feels like a classic Kiwi house, but one that’s far more suited to the way we live today.
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