Many homeowners go back and forth on whether or not to get brick veneer siding or vinyl siding on their homes. Vinyl is lightweight, durable and comes in a panoply of colors and styles. In contrast, brick veneer siding provides many similar benefits to traditional brick but in a more accessible, lightweight version.
Each type of siding has distinct benefits and disadvantages, and many opt for a brick cladding and vinyl combination. Here are the pros and cons of each of these popular choices.
Brick Veneer or Cladding
Brick houses historically were built out of rows of full-sized bricks connected with mortar. Now, however, consumers can opt for brick veneer siding or brick cladding. With many of the same benefits as brick and the same classic look, brick cladding is a favorite among seasoned homeowners.
Pros
Brick veneer siding projects the same tasteful vibe that classic brick does, but at only 30% to 40% of the price. Once installed, it requires very little maintenance, and the cladding is a much easier installation process than full bricks. Many of the bricks used in veneer siding are reclaimed, making brick veneer siding an excellent choice environmentally.
Cons
One of the downfalls of this type of siding is that, over time, cracks can appear on the mortar — the joint of the bricks. If you live in an area prone to earthquakes, you may have more cracks than normal. Repointing, a process in which expert repairs the mortar cracks, can be expensive and extensive.
Another fault of brick veneer siding is that, in areas of high humidity or rainfall, the bricks will retain moisture and potentially cause harm to your home’s framework. Lastly, bricks and brick veneers don’t take paint well, so you don’t get the same style range.
Good to Know
Vinyl siding can be made to resemble any texture, and with so many colors to choose from, it’s hard to go wrong.
Vinyl Siding
On the other end of the spectrum from brick cladding is vinyl siding, a lightweight alternative that has become a favorite for its affordability and versatility. It doesn’t cost as much to buy and install vinyl siding as other siding options. Here are some of the things homeowners like and dislike about vinyl siding.
Pros
Affordable, durable and versatile, there’s a lot to like about vinyl siding. It lasts a lifetime and requires little to no maintenance for its upkeep. Another significant benefit is that once you’ve picked your style and color from the myriad of choices, it will stay as vibrant as the day you got it.
The vinyl siding of today is nothing like what you may remember from your past. Vinyl siding can be made to resemble any texture, and with so many colors to choose from, it’s hard to go wrong.
Cons
One of the main complaints about vinyl siding is that it isn’t as fit for areas of extreme heat as brick cladding. With extreme temperatures, vinyl siding will warp or melt.
It will also become more brittle due to seasonal changes in temperature and atmospheric moisture. You have to have an airtight envelope siding to make sure that water doesn’t get caught behind it and against the face of the house.
When To Call a Pro
If you’re deciding between a brick veneer and vinyl siding, it’s vital to weigh the pros and cons of each choice. What’s your highest priority?
If it’s budgetary concerns, then you may want to opt for the ever-affordable vinyl siding. If you want to match your home’s classic aesthetic, perhaps brick veneer siding is the best choice. Many homeowners opt for a mix between brick cladding and vinyl siding for an exciting combination.
When you’re ready to transform your home, call At Home Pros. Our services will connect you with the very best siding experts in your neighborhood to take the guesswork out of your home upgrade.