Advantages & Disadvantages of Brick Siding

Article Summary

• When it is time to choose the exterior of your home, Brick siding is a popular choice.
• With its benefits for insulation and durability, it’s a smart choice.
• However, what you might not know are its drawbacks.
• In this article, we’ll look at the advantages and disadvantages of brick siding so you can conclude whether […]

PRO TIP Get two written estimates. Compare wrap, flashing, and trim, not just the total.

PRO TIP Ask who is on the job the week they start. You are hiring a crew, not a yard sign.

When it is time to choose the exterior of your home, Brick siding is a popular choice. With its benefits for insulation and durability, it’s a smart choice. However, what you might not know are its drawbacks.

In this article, we’ll look at the advantages and disadvantages of brick siding so you can conclude whether or not this type of siding is right for your home.

What is Brick Siding and Why It’s Better than Other Sidings?

Brick siding is composed of bricks that are cemented together and then attached to the exterior of your home. This siding is attached using a technique called bricklaying to help secure bricks in place.

Here are the reasons why brick siding is better than other types of siding:

• It is better than aluminum siding because it will not rust in humid conditions.
• It is better than vinyl siding because it has more character and customization options.
• Brick siding is better than wood as it is treated against moisture and will not warp or crack like wood.

This makes brick siding a popular choice for homeowners who want to improve the exterior of their home without having to worry about the long-term effects of their decision.

Now that you know the reasons why it’s better than other types of siding, let’s look at some of its advantages and disadvantages.

Advantages of Brick Siding

Appearance

Brick siding is aesthetically pleasing. Brick siding often looks like it has been in place for years and gives the home a historic look. Sometimes it is used to replicate or mimic certain types of natural stone and adds significant curb appeal to the house.  

Durable

Another significant advantage of brick siding is that it is extremely durable. Because bricks are made from clay or shale they are naturally more resistant to wear and tear. Bricks can withstand hail and severe weather better than other types of siding and can outlast different types of siding material by 20-25 years on average.

Fire Resistance

Brick siding is a fire-resistant material and can pass flame ratings that other types of siding cannot. It contains insulation in the cavity between the bricks that help to slow the spread of flames if the wall is exposed to fire.

Energy Efficiency

It’s also energy efficient because it acts as a barrier between the hot or cold outdoors and the home’s interior. Brick can be an effective sound absorber and insulator, which, combined with its thermal mass, makes it an energy-efficient choice for homeowners.

It can also reduce your heating and cooling costs by as much as 10-15% because it is so dense and highly insulated.

Natural Insulation

Brick siding has some natural insulation properties which means that it’s less likely to mold or become infested with pests. It also doesn’t get hot in direct sunlight, making it a great choice for homeowners in warm climates who want to avoid the heat.

Disadvantages of Brick Siding

Cost

The biggest drawback for homeowners considering exterior siding is the high price tag attached to this type of project. This type of siding can be costly depending on where you live, your home’s size, and the quality of materials used by the contractor. This expense makes it unaffordable for many people who are looking into exterior remodeling projects.  

Difficult to Clean

An additional drawback of brick siding is that it can be challenging to maintain and clean because it is very porous and can be damaged by water or harsh chemicals.

It should never be power-washed, which can damage the material and the mortar between bricks, allowing water to seep into your home’s walls and cause damage.

Maintenance

Another essential thing to consider is that it requires more maintenance than other exterior wall coverings.   Not only do bricks need occasional cleaning, but they may also require repointing or tuckpointing every couple of decades or so (depending on the quality of the brick).

Installation Time

One of the disadvantages of brick siding is that it takes longer to install. It cannot be applied directly over existing painted or vinyl surfaces because it needs a solid, clean substrate to attach to.

Additionally, it requires more time and effort than other types of siding because it must be carefully fitted together in a pattern that matches the bricks above and below it.

Conclusion

Brick siding is a beautiful and elegant type of siding material that has many benefits. However, Before you install this kind of siding on your home, make sure to compare it against other options such as vinyl or fiber-cement siding.

Also, consider asking a siding contractor about the different types of exterior coverings available on the market today. And take your time to research materials so that you make the best decision for your home. If you live in Oklahoma and want to install Brick Siding on your home, please read this article, Best Siding Contractors in Oklahoma, to help you find the best siding contractor in town.

FAQ

How do I hire a siding company in Tulsa?

Compare the top 10 on this site, call two or three for an on-site estimate, and ask who installs the material you want. Get the bid in writing.

How much does new siding cost in Oklahoma?

Price depends on material, square footage, tear-off, and trim. Vinyl is usually the lowest bid. Hardie and fiber cement cost more up front and last longer. Ask each company to itemize labor and materials.

What siding holds up in Oklahoma weather?

Fiber cement and Hardie handle hail, heat, and ice better than thin vinyl. Wood looks right on older homes but needs paint and rot checks. Match the material to the storm risk on your street.

Do I need to replace siding or can I repair it?

Repair works when damage is local: a few cracked boards, one wall, or trim rot. Full replacement makes sense when the wrap is failing, paint will not hold, or you are changing material.

Should I get more than one estimate?

Yes. Call at least two reviewed companies. Compare scope, not just the bottom number. The cheap bid often skips wrap, flashing, or trim.

How long does a siding job take?

A typical Tulsa house is days, not months, if weather holds. Ask about start date, crew size, and whether they tear off and install in the same week.