Brick siding offers a durable, classic appearance for your home that will never go out of style. From old family houses that were built decades back to uprooted new homes today, brick is a material that has been shown time and time again to be able to withstand changing styles and weather.
Homes constructed from brick when Elvis was still a teenager, or even 100 years ago on up in some cases, manage to hold their own with surprisingly little upkeep. That’s why brick is often perceived as a lifetime investment, not just a design choice.
Brick will not peel, rot or bend, and is impervious to termites. It remains firm, retains its color and protects the home from fire, storms and pests.
And whether used across the entire house or just in a front wall, brick does offer depth, texture and true value that you cannot get from fake materials.
What Brick Siding Really Means
Brick siding does not mean only one thing. There are three main ways brick is used on homes today, and each has its own purpose.
Full brick masonry is the traditional method. In this system, thick brick walls support the structure of the home. These walls are usually 8 to 12 inches thick and are common in older homes and high-end new builds. The brick itself carries weight and gives the home its strength.
Brick veneer is the most common modern choice. Here, the home is built with wood or steel framing, and a single layer of brick is added on the outside. The brick is tied to the frame with metal supports, and a small air gap allows moisture to escape. This gives the look and many benefits of brick without the extreme weight and cost of full brick walls.
Thin brick veneer (also called brick slips) uses real brick cut into thin pieces, usually about half an inch thick. These are glued or mortared onto existing walls. Thin brick is popular for remodeling and accent walls because it does not need a special foundation. It looks like real brick but does not last as long as full veneer.
All of these options use real fired clay brick, not plastic or concrete copies. Real brick is made by shaping clay and firing it in very hot kilns, which makes it hard, weather-resistant, and long-lasting.
Full Brick vs Brick Veneer (Simple Breakdown)
Full brick masonry uses solid bricks laid with mortar, cavity walls for drainage, and steel ties. It offers great strength and steady indoor temperatures because brick slowly absorbs and releases heat. It is best for new construction planned from the start.
Brick veneer uses much thinner brick layers attached to the home’s frame. It looks almost the same as full brick but weighs far less and costs less. Thin brick panels are even lighter and work well for upgrades and renovations.
Brick sizes are usually standard, such as modular or queen sizes. Patterns like running bond or herringbone add style. Handmade bricks look more rustic, while machine-made bricks look clean and modern.
Colors, Styles, and Curb Appeal
There are bricks in all types of colors and textures. Some bricks are rough and natural, while others are smooth and modern. Tumbled bricks look aged and soft, like reclaimed brick from old buildings.
Colors range from classic red and brown to white, gray, black, and blended shades. Brick color does not fade like paint because it comes from natural minerals fired into the clay. Even after many decades, brick keeps its look.
Brick adds depth to walls by creating shadows and texture that vinyl siding cannot. Brick homes often appear bigger and sturdier, a plus factor when it comes time to sell. Brick is a symbol of quality and substance for many buyers.
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Strength and Durability You Can Rely On
Brick is one of the strongest siding materials available. It can handle extreme winds, heavy rain, snow, heat, and hail without damage. Brick does not burn, making it one of the safest choices in fire-prone areas.
It does not rot or attract termites, and it holds up well in freeze-thaw climates when installed correctly. Full brick walls can last hundreds of years, while brick veneer often lasts 70 to 100 years with simple mortar care.
Sunlight does not damage brick, and salty coastal air can usually be washed away with water. This is why brick is trusted in harsh environments.
Installation: What Really Happens
It is skilled work to install brick, and it takes time.
For full brick and brick veneer, the foundation must include a brick ledge to support the weight. A moisture barrier is added first, then metal ties are attached to hold the brick in place.
Bricks are carefully stacked with uniform gaps between them (the mortar joints), and flashing is installed around windows and doors to direct water out.
Near the bottom, small drainage holes — known as weep holes — allow moisture to get out. This helps keep your wall system dry and healthy.
Thin brick is more manageable and does not require a special foundation. It is glued or mortared to ready surfaces and can be used for accenting, remodels or new construction.
Real Costs in 2026
Brick siding costs more at the start, but saves money over time.
Full brick masonry usually costs between $11 and $27 per square foot installed.
Brick veneer costs around $8 to $18 per square foot.
Thin brick options range from $4 to $13 per square foot.
Labor makes up most of the cost because bricklaying is slow, careful work. While vinyl is cheaper upfront, brick does not need repainting or replacement, which improves long-term value.
Over 30 years, brick often returns 80% to 100% of its cost through savings and resale value.
Brick Siding Compared to Other Materials
| Feature | Brick Siding | Vinyl | Fiber Cement | Engineered Wood |
| Installed Cost (sq ft) | $8–27 | $3.5–13 | $10–18 | $7–13 |
| Maintenance | Repoint every 25 yrs | Wash yearly | Paint 10–15 yrs | Paint 5–10 yrs |
| Lifespan | 70–500 yrs | 20–40 yrs | 50+ yrs | 30–50 yrs |
| Weight | Very heavy | Very light | Medium | Light |
| Energy Efficiency | Thermal mass | Insulated | Good | Fair |
| Fire Resistance | Class A | Class B | Class A | Class C |
Brick wins in durability and safety, while lighter materials win on speed and price.
Easy Maintenance Over the Years
Brick needs very little care. Washing with low-pressure water once a year removes dirt and pollen. Harsh chemicals should be avoided.
Mortar joints should be checked every few years. After 20 to 30 years, some homes need repointing, which replaces old mortar and keeps the wall strong.
Plants should be trimmed away, and gutters should work properly so water does not sit on the brick.
Common Problems and Smart Fixes
White powder on brick, called efflorescence, usually comes from trapped moisture and can be cleaned easily. Cracked or damaged bricks can be replaced one at a time.
If you notice that walls are beginning to bow or bricks have loosened, there may well have been shoddy installation and you’ll want to get a professional to take a look. A stitch in time saves nine.
Environmental Benefits
Brick is made from natural clay and contains no harmful chemicals. It lasts so long that it creates far less waste than materials that must be replaced every few decades.
Brick’s thermal mass can lower heating and cooling costs by 20% to 30% in some climates. Many bricks today also contain recycled materials and are sourced locally.
Why Brick Siding Is Still Worth It
Brick siding combines strength, beauty, and peace of mind. It protects homes from fire, weather, insects, and time itself. It costs more up front but will save you time, money and stress for decades.
For homeowners seeking a home that feels safe, solid and time tested, brick is one of the best exterior options for a long-lasting investment.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can brick be added over existing siding?
Yes, thin brick can be added after removing loose siding and preparing the wall.
Is brick safe near wildfires?
Yes. Brick is non-combustible and rated Class A for fire safety.
Does brick fade in sunlight?
No. Brick color is permanent and does not fade like paint.
Does brick increase home value?
Yes. Brick homes often sell for 10% to 20% more and attract buyers faster.
Is brick good for cold climates?
Yes, when installed correctly with proper drainage and insulation.
