Should You Consider Replacing Your Siding With Brick?

Should You Consider Replacing Your Siding With Brick?

There are numerous types of siding materials available in the marketplace, including wood, vinyl, aluminum, stone, fiber-cement, brick, and more. Although brick, stone, and stucco are relatively more expensive than the others, they last considerably longer. Regardless of the siding material currently covering your home, it can be removed and replaced with brick. However, you need to consider the cost, lifespan, and environmental impact of brick siding, among other parameters, before proceeding.

How Much Brick Costs

Brick and stone have comparable costs and are among the most expensive choices. Generally, the price of brick per square footage can be 3-5 times more than other siding materials such as fiber cement – when you consider both material and labor costs. However, the life expectancy is much more impressive, making it cost-effective in the long term.

How Long You Plan To Own The Home

The biggest advantage of brick is its longevity. It’s highly durable and won’t rot, melt, warp, or get eaten by insects. The upkeep only involves maintaining the grout and ensuring any cracks don’t allow moisture to penetrate the framing. As a result, brick lasts longer than any other siding material, except stone – an upward of 100 years. So if you plan to move out or sell your home soon, investing in brick siding may not be a good idea.

The Impact Of Brick On The Environment

Brick and steel siding usually generate more carbon dioxide during their production than any other siding material and produce the most air pollution. Also, brick consumes a lot of energy in its production than other siding options. But because brick can last up to 10 times longer than other siding alternatives, it generates less after-use waste. Be sure to consider the environmental impact of your siding before making the final decision.

The Impact Of Extra Weight

Unfortunately, brick is cumbersome. Due to the extra weight, it requires more time and labor to move to another location and install. But since a brick veneer home uses a single non-structural layer of brick, the roof load is not exerted on the bricks, neither does the weight of the walls behind the brick impact them.  

The Need For A New Foundation

Although the brick is only a thin skin, it doesn’t mean its weight is insignificant. Besides, to keep the brick and mortar free of cracks for many years, it should have a superb foundation beneath it. Before laying the brick, you need to pour a four-inch-wide concrete block wall next to the existing foundation.

Are you planning to replace your existing siding with bricks? Experts at Red Diamond in the Denver and Fort Collins area can help assess your situation and advice you on the right course of action. Contact us today to schedule your consultation and learn whether brick will suit your home!

Posted in Exteriors
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