Siding vs. Brick for Houses: Which Is Better?

When homeowners must pick the perfect exterior for their residences, they often choose between siding or brick exteriors. This choice can significantly impact your home's aesthetic appeal, durability, and comfortability. Read on for a comparison of siding vs. brick so you can understand the advantages and disadvantages of both and decide for yourself which is better for your home.

The Pros and Cons of Brick for Your Home

For centuries, builders have used brick to construct various structures. While this material offers numerous advantages, it comes with certain disadvantages that you should be aware of as well.

Brick Siding Doesn't Require Much Maintenance

One of the most appealing aspects of brick siding is that it requires minimal maintenance. Unlike some other materials, builders and homeowners don’t need to paint, seal, or treat it regularly.

Once installed, brick walls can withstand time with little to no intervention. This can be especially beneficial if you are a person who prefers low-maintenance options.

Additionally, brick is resistant to rot and insects, which further reduces the need for maintenance and repairs over time. However, you will likely have to do some occasional maintenance with water and a mild detergent so your home exterior remains fresh and clean.

Brick Is Very Expensive

One of the significant drawbacks of bricks is that they have a significant installation cost. The materials are more expensive than alternatives, such as vinyl siding, which can be daunting if you are operating on a strict budget.

Additionally, the installation process requires skilled labor, often leading to higher overall costs due to the complexity of working with brick. This financial consideration is crucial for homeowners to evaluate, as it may impact their final decision on the most suitable exterior for their home.

Brick is Very Durable

Brick’s durability is a trait that may make it worth the additional cost to homeowners. Homes built with brick can last for centuries, with many historic brick buildings still standing as a testament to this material's durability. The robust nature of bricks makes them ideal for homeowners looking for a long-term solution that won't require frequent replacements or repairs.

Weather Can Affect Bricks

Even though bricks are very strong, weather can occasionally compromise their integrity. For example, prolonged exposure to heavy rain may result in the brick taking in moisture and causing water damage in your residence.

Additionally, freezing temperatures can cause water trapped within the brick to expand, leading to cracking and deterioration. Therefore, it remains essential for homeowners to monitor their brick exteriors and address any weather-related issues promptly to ensure long-term performance.

Brick Can Resist Fire

Although water and temperature can affect bricks, they can provide you with an added layer of protection since they have fire-resistant properties. Brick is non-combustible, meaning it does not catch fire or burn.

This characteristic can be particularly beneficial in areas prone to wildfires or homes with fireplaces and wood-burning stoves. In the event of a fire, brick walls can prevent the spread of flames, providing valuable time for residents to evacuate and for firefighters to contain the blaze. This fire resistance can also lower homeowners' insurance premiums, adding to brick's overall value.

The Pros and Cons of Siding Products

After learning about brick, you can now read about the advantages and disadvantages of siding for houses. Afterward, you should be able to determine which is better for your home.

Siding Costs Less to Install

Cost is a significant factor for many homeowners. If you are considering vinyl, metal, or wood siding, you are in luck since home siding contractors will usually offer an affordable fee to install these products.

This helps make them attractive options for budget-conscious homeowners. Additionally, the lower installation cost of siding can free up funds for other home improvement projects or upgrades.

Siding Requires More Maintenance

One of the most notable drawbacks of siding is that it generally requires more frequent maintenance than brick. Depending on the material, homeowners may need to paint, seal, or treat it regularly to preserve its appearance and function.

For instance, wood siding is particularly susceptible to rot, insects, and weather damage, necessitating periodic inspections and maintenance. This ongoing upkeep can be time-consuming and may lead to additional costs over the lifespan of the siding, thereby affecting the overall investment for homeowners.

Siding Requires Less Time to Install

On the upside, the installation process for wood, metal, or vinyl siding is generally more straightforward and quicker than that of brick. This means your family will experience less disruption to daily life during construction.

Furthermore, builders can install vinyl siding over existing materials in some cases, eliminating the need for extensive demolition work. This feature can make vinyl siding an attractive option for homeowners looking to update their home's exterior quickly and efficiently.

Most Siding Products Don't Have Brick's Longevity

Another disadvantage of siding compared to brick is the longevity. While brick can last for centuries with minimal upkeep, most siding materials have a significantly shorter lifespan.

This means that homeowners may need to undertake replacements or repairs more frequently, which can lead to higher long-term costs. Additionally, the need for replacement can disrupt the home's exterior aesthetic and require further investment in renovations.

Siding Offers You More Aesthetic Options

One last major benefit of siding is that it offers you more aesthetic options than brick, giving you more variety and opportunities for customization. For example, vinyl siding comes in various colors and styles.

For example, if you want your siding to look like stone or have a sleek modern finish, vinyl siding can provide you with these options while also giving you cost advantages. The versatility of siding products enables homeowners to have an exterior that embodies their style and taste, freeing them from the limits of brick.

Choosing between brick and siding for your home's exterior is a significant decision that requires careful consideration of various factors, including maintenance, durability, safety, cost, and aesthetics. If you have considered all aspects and want siding for your home, contact Schmucker Quality Construction LLC today. We focus on providing clients with high-quality installations so you can have an exterior with siding that will bring you pride.