The Brick vs Siding Guide: Which Is Better For Your Home?
- srcustommasonry
- 18 minutes ago
- 5 min read
The materials you choose for your home’s exterior make a big impact on the curb appeal and overall aesthetic. For many people, the choice comes down to brick vs siding. But which one is better for your home? The answer depends on a number of factors, including cost, maintenance, durability, and your own personal preference.
In this guide, we’ll compare brick and vinyl siding so you can pick the right option for your home’s exterior.
Brick vs Siding
Back in the day, brick siding for your house was one of your only options, especially if you wanted a home that would last. Today, brick remains a classic look for homes, but building with brick is expensive. Luckily, materials like vinyl siding provide budget-friendly options that are durable and attractive. Choosing between brick vs vinyl siding is a matter of comparing factors like cost, maintenance, durability, and more.
Cost Comparison
When it comes to brick vs siding, vinyl siding costs considerably less than brick. Vinyl typically costs between $3 to $12 per square foot because it’s inexpensive to manufacture and easy to install.
Brick, on the other hand, ranges between $9 to $28 per square foot. Installing brick walls is time-consuming, requiring hours of labor by expert masons. Plus, the materials are costly to make.
One important factor to consider is the long-term cost of brick vs siding. Brick typically lasts for a century or more with minimal maintenance needed. Vinyl siding, however, usually needs to be replaced after 20 to 30 years. While you pay more for brick upfront, you may end up spending less in the long run.
Maintenance
If you’re looking for low-maintenance options for your home’s exterior, you’re in luck. Both brick and vinyl siding require low maintenance while lasting for a long time. Vinyl is easy to take care of. Essentially, all you need to do is wash regularly. Areas that are damaged will need to be replaced, but that’s a fairly simple task.
Like vinyl, brick is simple to maintain as brick is resistant to fading, rotting, and insect damage. You’ll want to clean it once a year or so, using a brush and mild detergent. You can also use a power washer, but only if the brick is in good condition. Older brick may be too fragile. Inspect it regularly for cracks and bowing so you can handle issues before they get too big. You may also need to replace old mortar occasionally to keep the brick stable.
Durability
When comparing brick vs siding, brick is the clear winner for durability. Brick that is well cared for can last a century or more. It’s resistant to fire, rotting, and insect damage, which often cause problems for other types of siding. Plus, brick lasts through extreme weather.
On the other hand, vinyl usually needs to be replaced every 20 to 30 years. Still, it’s a fairly durable siding option. Vinyl does well in extreme weather, though maybe not as well as brick. When installed correctly, vinyl is resistant to moisture. However, improper installation leads to leaks and other problems. Additionally, vinyl tends to fade over time and is more likely to be damaged by impact, such as during a storm with heavy wind.
Design Options
When it comes to design, vinyl siding tends to have more options than brick. Vinyl offers a wide color palette, whether you’re looking for something bold and modern or a traditional neutral. It’s available in multiple styles, including horizontal lap, vertical panels, shake, scalloped edges, board and batten, and even faux wood or stone finishes. It’s also easy to update by painting or swapping out panels for a new look.
Brick, on the other hand, tends to have fewer options, especially after the fact. Design changes are difficult and expensive, so you want to be certain you like the aesthetic before it’s installed. There are a few color tones to choose from–including reds, whites, browns, and grays–and you can even paint it if you’d like.
One thing to note is that you don’t necessarily have to choose between brick vs vinyl siding. If you’re looking for an exterior with texture and charm, combining brick and vinyl is a great option. Brick can be used to create features like arches, quoins, chimneys, or accent walls, with vinyl filling in the rest of the space.
If you’re looking to update the look of your house, another option to consider is brick veneer. Brick veneer is like brick siding for your house. It’s installed in one layer instead of two, and offers the look of brick with a lower cost than full brick walls.
Energy Efficiency
With climate change and the cost of heating and cooling your home, energy efficiency is another important factor to consider. When comparing brick vs siding, vinyl is typically the more energy-efficient material, as long as quality insulation is used. For maximum efficiency, use insulated vinyl siding, which uses a layer of polystyrene foam to insulate the home.
Brick is fairly energy efficient if properly installed. It stores heat and releases it slowly over time, which helps keep your home more comfortable in both summer and winter. Plus, the airspace between the layers of brick can be filled with insulation that improves the energy efficiency of your house.
Resale Value
When it comes to resale value of brick vs vinyl siding, brick often wins. Buyers usually consider brick a premium material, associating it with durability, low maintenance, and timeless beauty. With brick, you can expect an added $4,000 to $10,000 or more in resale value, depending on where you live.
Vinyl, on the other hand, doesn’t add quite as much resale value. Some buyers see vinyl as less durable or “builder grade” and won’t be willing to pay as much for the home. Still, vinyl siding can add value to your home, especially if you’re upgrading for an improved curb appeal.
The Installation Process
The installation process for brick vs siding is quite different, with brick requiring more labor and a higher level of skill. To install vinyl siding, contractors measure and cut the vinyl panels either horizontally or vertically. The panels usually have interlocking edges, which creates a seamless look. Trim pieces, like J-channels, corner posts, soffit, or fascia, are installed next to complete the look and seal the edges. It takes skill, but can usually be done in about a week’s time.
Brick, on the other hand, requires more labor and skill to install. Before anything else, masons have to prepare a sturdy foundation that can support the weight of the brick. Next, they lay a moisture barrier and use metal ties or anchors to secure the brick to the wall. Bricks are laid one by one in courses with mortar joints. Finally, weep holes and flashing are installed at the base so that moisture doesn’t pool inside. The process is labor-intensive and can take from 1 to 3 weeks, but the result is timeless and durable.
Brick vs Siding Conclusion
When it comes to brick vs siding, the right one will depend on your budget and aesthetic preferences. While vinyl tends to be more budget-friendly at the start, brick is a long-term investment that will give your home a timeless look. If you’re looking for the benefits of both, you can combine the two for a textured look.
If you’re looking to increase the curb appeal of your home with brick, you need a contractor you can trust. Wherever you are in the Wasatch Front, S&R Custom Masonry is here for all your masonry needs. From brick veneer and garden walls to fireplaces, we have the expertise and the dedication to craft to bring your vision to life. Contact us today for an estimate!
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