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Originally Posted On: https://burbachexteriors.com/blog/the-pros-and-cons-of-using-brick-vs-siding/

As a homeowner, one of the biggest decisions you will make is choosing what type of material to use for the exterior of your home. When it comes to choosing the right exterior cladding for your home, two options that likely come to mind are brick and vinyl siding. Both materials offer their unique advantages and trade-offs in terms of cost, longevity, curb appeal, and energy efficiency.

We’ll use our experience to delve into these factors, comparing the two options to help you make an informed decision for your long-term home improvement plans. Whether you’re considering the classic appeal of brick or the modern convenience of vinyl siding, understanding their performance under extreme weather conditions, energy efficiency, and the potential issues during installation can lead you to make the right choice for your home.

Brick is one of the oldest building material still used today, dating back as far as 7000 BC.  While you may not see as many brick houses in newer developments, it’s still a popular choice today. Its durability, low maintenance, and classic appearance make it an attractive option for homeowners.

• Durability: Brick is known for its strength and longevity. It can withstand extreme weather conditions such as hurricanes, tornadoes, and even earthquakes.
• Low Maintenance: Unlike other exterior cladding options, brick doesn’t require frequent maintenance. It is resistant to fading, rotting, and insect damage.
• Energy Efficient: Brick can help reduce heating and cooling costs due to its thermal mass properties. It absorbs heat during the day and releases it slowly at night, making it more energy-efficient than vinyl siding.
• Curb Appeal: Brick adds a timeless and elegant look to any home. It can increase the curb appeal and value of your property.

• High Cost: The initial cost of brick is higher compared to other exterior cladding options such as vinyl siding.
• Size and Weight: The size and weight of the brick can make installation more difficult, which may require additional labor and equipment.
• Extreme Temperature: In extreme temperatures, such as very hot or cold climates, brick may expand and contract, leading to cracks and potential structural damage.

Siding is a more modern building material, and it’s popular choice for homeowners due to its versatility, affordability, and easy installation. It comes in various styles, colors, and materials such as vinyl or wood.

• Affordability: Siding is a more affordable option compared to brick, making it a popular choice for many homeowners.
• Versatility: With a wide range of materials and styles available, siding can be customized to suit any home’s design.
• Easy Installation: Siding is lightweight and easy to install, which can save time and labor costs during the installation process.
• Low Maintenance: Like brick, siding is also low maintenance and resistant to fading, rotting, and insect damage.

• Durability: While siding is durable, it may not withstand extreme weather conditions as well as brick.
• Long-term Costs: Siding may require more maintenance and replacement over time compared to brick, which can lead to higher long-term costs.
• Energy Efficiency: Siding may not be as energy efficient as brick and may not provide the same level of insulation, leading to higher heating and cooling costs.
• Installation Challenges: Improper or incorrect installation can lead to issues such as water damage, mold growth, and structural damage, especially with vinyl siding made of polyvinyl chloride (PVC).

Brick vs siding is a common debate among homeowners considering exterior renovations. The primary differences lie in aesthetics, durability, installation cost, and maintenance requirements. While brick offers a classic look and robust durability, siding, especially vinyl siding, provides a wide range of styles and colors at potentially lower upfront costs.

When considering environmental impact, brick is often seen as a more sustainable option due to its natural materials and longevity. In contrast, vinyl siding is manufactured from synthetic materials but offers benefits such as energy efficiency due to its insulation properties.

In a material comparison, brick generally has a higher initial cost but less maintenance over time, which can make it more cost-effective in the long term. Siding, particularly vinyl siding, has lower upfront costs but may require more frequent repairs or replacements, potentially increasing long-term expenses.

Regarding insulation, siding can often provide better energy efficiency, especially insulated vinyl siding designed to help maintain interior temperatures. Brick has natural insulation properties but typically requires additional insulation materials to match the performance of specialized siding products.

Weather-resistance is a strong point for brick due to its resilience against extreme conditions, such as high winds and hail. Vinyl siding is also designed for weather-resistance and can withstand various elements, but it may be more susceptible to damage from severe impacts when compared to brick.

Yes, home value can be impacted by your choice of exterior. Brick is generally viewed as a premium material that can enhance the value of your home more significantly. However, modern vinyl siding styles can also increase home value, particularly when they improve curb appeal and energy efficiency.

Maintenance is a crucial factor in the brick vs siding comparison. Brick is low-maintenance, requiring occasional cleaning and repointing. Vinyl siding requires more regular cleaning to prevent mildew and may need repairs or replacement of damaged sections.

Aesthetics vary considerably between brick and siding. Brick offers a traditional and timeless appearance, while siding provides a versatile range of colors and textures, including options that mimic wood, stone, or even brick, allowing homeowners to achieve a variety of design aspirations.

Siding, particularly vinyl siding, is typically quicker to install due to its lightweight and interlocking design. Brick installation is more labor-intensive and time-consuming, which can affect the overall renovation timeline.

Brick has superior fire resistance compared to vinyl siding due to its non-combustible nature. Vinyl siding can withstand heat to a degree but may melt or warp when exposed to high temperatures.

For repairs, vinyl siding is often easier and more cost-effective to fix, as you can replace individual panels. Brick repairs can be more complex, requiring color and texture matching of the mortar and bricks, which might lead to higher repair costs.

Color longevity is typically longer in brick since its color is inherent and doesn’t fade quickly over time. Vinyl siding can also have long-lasting color, but it may be more susceptible to fading due to prolonged exposure to sunlight and the elements.

When evaluating sustainability, brick is often seen as a more eco-friendly option since it’s made from natural clay and can last for centuries. Vinyl siding, while not as long-lasting, is recyclable and can have a lower environmental impact when properly managed at the end of its life cycle.

For those torn between brick and siding aesthetics, there are options like brick veneer or engineered siding that mimic the appearance of brick, offering the look of traditional masonry with the benefits of modern siding materials.

Yes, siding can be installed over existing brick. This process involves creating a secure framework to anchor the siding, which can be an efficient way to update the look of a brick home without the need for extensive masonry work.

• Brick offers a timeless and classic look, enhancing curb appeal.
• Siding provides a variety of styles and colors, allowing for more customization.
• Brick is highly durable and can last for over a century with minimal maintenance.
• Siding is generally more affordable and easier to install than brick.
• Brick has excellent fire resistance, adding an extra layer of safety to your home.
• Siding materials, such as vinyl, can be more energy-efficient, providing better insulation.
• Brick is resistant to weather and pests, reducing long-term repair costs.
• Siding can be easily replaced or repaired if damaged, offering more flexibility.
• Brick can increase the resale value of your home due to its perceived quality and longevity.
• Siding requires regular maintenance, such as painting or cleaning, to keep it looking new.
• Brick construction can be more environmentally friendly, as it uses natural materials.
• Siding options like fiber cement can mimic the appearance of brick or wood at a lower cost.
• Brick homes tend to have better sound insulation, providing a quieter living environment.
• Siding can be prone to warping or fading over time, depending on the material used.
• Brick can contribute to better indoor air quality by reducing mold and mildew growth.

Both brick and siding have their advantages and disadvantages when it comes to exterior cladding. While brick may be more durable, energy efficient, and add curb appeal to your home, it also comes with a higher initial cost. Siding, on the other hand, is affordable, versatile, and easy to install but may not withstand extreme weather conditions as well and may require more maintenance in the long run.

Ultimately, the decision between brick and siding will depend on your personal preferences, budget, and climate. Consider consulting with a professional to help you make an informed decision for your home’s exterior materials. Regardless of your choice, both options can add value and enhance the appearance of your home for years to come.  So, choose wisely and enjoy the benefits of your chosen exterior cladding for a long time!  Happy home improvement!