The Brick Siding Guide: Types, Pros, Cons, & Costs
- srcustommasonry
- Sep 7
- 6 min read
Brick siding has been one of the top siding choices for homeowners in the US for decades, and its popularity makes perfect sense. People not only love the classic look, but it’s relatively low-maintenance and won’t break the bank. While brick siding is great, it has its pros and cons to consider, just like anything else. Let’s dig in to learn more about when it’s the best choice for your next project, how to keep it looking great, and what you can plan on when it comes to budget.
What Is Brick Siding?
Brick siding, or brick veneer, is basically a layer of real bricks attached to the outside of a home. It’s great because it gives you the look of a traditional brick house without actually being a full brick structure. Unlike older homes built entirely of brick that carried the weight of the house, brick veneer sits on top of a wood or metal frame and acts mostly as an exterior covering.
Back in the day, many homes were built with solid brick walls because it was one of the few durable materials available. Those walls were thick, strong, and could support the weight of the house on their own. Today, building a whole house out of solid brick is much more expensive and labor-intensive. Modern construction tends to use wood or steel framing for structural support because it is lighter, faster, and more cost-effective.
Veneer has grown into such a popular siding option because it combines the timeless look of brick with the benefits of modern construction. It protects the home from the elements, adds curb appeal, and requires far less material and labor than a home built from solid brick.
Types of Brick Siding
There are quite a few different kinds of brick veneer siding options, each with different price points and benefits. We’ve made a short list of the most common types along with a few helpful details:
Brick Veneer Siding
As mentioned earlier, brick veneer siding uses real bricks attached to your home’s structural frame. It gives the authentic look and feel of brick while being durable and low-maintenance. Installed costs usually run $10 to $20 per square foot. This option is popular when you want that classic brick appearance, long-lasting durability, and curb appeal without the hassle or expense of building a solid brick wall.
Faux Brick Siding
Faux brick siding is made from molded panels or fiber cement that mimics the look of real brick. It’s lightweight, easy to install, and usually costs $3 to $7 per square foot installed. Many homeowners choose it when they want the brick look without adding weight or paying for a full brick installation. It works well for accent walls, smaller projects, or those difficult areas where real brick would be tricky to use.
Vinyl Brick Siding
Vinyl brick siding is a plastic alternative designed to look similar to real brick. It’s lightweight, easy to clean, and generally costs $2 to $6 per square foot installed. Keep in mind that even though it doesn’t have the same texture or longevity as real brick, it’s a practical choice for DIY projects, rental homes, or any situation where appearance is more of a priority than durability.
Cost To Install Siding
The cost to install siding will very much depend on what material you choose and how big or complicated your home is. Vinyl or fiber cement usually comes in much cheaper, while real brick or stone veneer will cost more for obvious reasons. Labor is a big part of the price too, especially if your walls aren’t perfectly straight or need extra framing. It’s worth thinking about the overall cost, not just the materials, since good installation makes a big difference in how long your siding lasts.
Other things can add to the price as well, like corners, trim, and accent pieces. Two-story homes or ones with tricky rooflines often need scaffolding or extra safety gear, which adds labor costs. Removing old siding or fixing hidden damage can also significantly bump up the total price.
Brick and Siding Combinations
So many homeowners have recently been choosing to opt for a look that combines brick with other types of siding. This is the case for both exterior and interior spaces. One of the most popular combos is brick paired with horizontal wood or fiber cement siding. The brick adds weight and texture at the base or around entryways, while the siding keeps the upper walls lighter and adds visual contrast. It’s a look that works on both traditional and modern homes and is surprisingly versatile. Another favorite is brick with stucco. The smooth stucco surface plays off the rough texture of the brick, giving the home personality without trying too hard. This combination is often used in warmer climates since stucco is low maintenance and holds up really well to extreme heat.
Some homeowners like to mix brick with board-and-batten siding. The vertical lines of the board-and-batten draw the eye up, while the brick keeps the base solid and grounded. Another option is to add stone accents around spots like doorways, chimneys, or small sections of wall. It breaks up the brick and adds texture, making the exterior more visually interesting.
Pros and Cons of Brick Veneer Siding
Pros
Adds real texture and depth to your home’s exterior that paint or vinyl can’t match.
Naturally fire-resistant, giving an extra layer of protection for your house.
Doesn’t fade easily, so colors and patterns stay looking sharp over time.
Provides some sound insulation, helping reduce street or neighborhood noise.
Can increase resale value because it gives the home a more substantial, permanent feel.
Cons
Can be tricky to repair if a brick cracks or mortar fails, requiring skill to match.
Heavier than some siding options, so framing needs to be in good condition.
Moisture can sneak in if flashing and weep holes aren’t installed correctly.
Limited color options unless you paint it, which can defeat the low-maintenance benefit.
Installation takes longer than vinyl or fiber cement, which can affect overall project timelines and cost.
Should You Seal It?
Sealing brick veneer can be a good idea in some situations, but it’s not really necessary most of the time. A high-quality brick already does a good job keeping water out. Some homeowners choose to seal it to help prevent staining or make cleaning easier, especially in areas with a lot of rain or dirt. The key is to use the right kind of sealer and apply it carefully, since too much or the wrong product can trap moisture and cause problems. For most homes, leaving it unsealed works fine, but sealing can give extra protection if you want a little more peace of mind.
How Long Does It Last?
Brick veneer siding lasts a really long time, often outlasting the wood framing underneath it. In many cases, it can easily last over 100 years. Part of what makes it so durable is that brick itself is naturally strong, fire-resistant, and not prone to rot or insect damage like wood siding. The mortar and construction methods also help it stay solid for decades. People have been using brick on homes for hundreds of years because it stands up to weather, wear, and time better than almost anything else.
How To Install It
If you’re handy and have some basic masonry skills, installing brick veneer siding can be a doable DIY project. If you’re not totally confident, either hire a pro or start small. For example, try a short accent wall or a small section around your front entry before tackling the whole house. It’s a good way to get comfortable with the process without feeling totally overwhelmed.
Here’s a simple step-by-step guide to get you started:
Prep the surface – Make sure the wall is clean, level, and properly framed. Install a moisture barrier if needed.
Apply the mortar – Spread a layer of mortar on the wall or on the back of each brick, depending on your method.
Lay the bricks – Start at the bottom and work your way up, pressing each brick into the mortar and keeping them level.
Check alignment – Use a level and spacers to keep rows straight and consistent as you go.
Finish and clean – Once the bricks are set, fill in joints, smooth the mortar, and wipe off any excess before it dries.
Tools you’ll need before you start:
Trowel
Level
Mortar mixing bucket
Brick spacers
Measuring tape
Rubber mallet
Brush for cleaning excess mortar
How To Maintain It
One of the best things about brick veneer siding is that it requires little to no maintenance. Usually, a simple rinse or occasional brushing is enough to keep it looking clean. It’s important to avoid pressure washing, though. While that works for other siding, it can damage brick mortar and caulking. Once those are compromised, moisture can get in and create bigger issues inside your walls. Other than that, maintenance is mostly just checking for small cracks or chips and addressing them when needed.
The Brick Siding Guide Conclusion
Brick veneer siding does more than make your home look good; it’s built to last and gives you a ton of flexibility. Whether you go with real brick, faux options, or a mix of materials, there’s room to make your home feel like yours. If you’re in the Salt Lake City area, our team at S&R Masonry can help you figure out what works best for your specific budget and vision.
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