Bricking Over Siding: A House Renovation Challenge

It is possible to install siding over a brick house, but it is not recommended. Brick walls are not smooth and level, making the process more challenging and costly. If you want to change the exterior of your brick house, it is best to remove the brick first and start with a clean slate. This will help you avoid issues like rippling or bowing, which can occur when installing siding over brick.

If you decide to proceed with installing siding over brick, it is important to seek professional help. The process requires additional steps, such as applying a layer of sheathing to create a smooth surface for the siding to adhere to and waterproofing to prevent leaks.

There are several pros and cons to consider before making this decision. While installing siding over brick can increase your property value and curb appeal, it may also lead to potential water damage and energy loss. It is a time-consuming process that requires a high budget and professional expertise.

Vinyl siding is a common choice, but it's not recommended for brick houses

Vinyl siding is a common choice for those looking to re-side their homes due to its durability, affordability, and ease of installation. However, while it is possible to install vinyl siding over a brick house, it is not recommended.

Brick walls are not smooth and level, making vinyl siding installation more challenging and labour-intensive. The process requires creating a level surface by installing furring strips and ensuring proper insulation, which can be tricky and may result in rippling or bowing if not done correctly. Most contractors advise removing the brick exterior before installing vinyl siding to ensure a clean and smooth surface.

Additionally, vinyl siding may not be the best choice for those seeking a traditional or rustic aesthetic. While vinyl siding can improve a home's curb appeal and resale value, brick provides a classic and timeless look that many desire.

Furthermore, environmental considerations come into play when choosing between vinyl and brick. Vinyl siding is more environmentally friendly in terms of construction site space and waste production. However, brick siding is more durable and has a longer lifespan, often lasting a century or more, which reduces the need for frequent replacements.

In summary, while vinyl siding is a popular choice due to its affordability and ease of maintenance, it may not be the best option for brick houses. The installation process is more complex and time-consuming, and vinyl may not align with the desired aesthetic for a brick home. Environmental factors and the longer lifespan of brick siding should also be considered when making a decision.

Metal siding is durable and energy-efficient, but it's expensive

Metal siding is a popular choice for homeowners as it is long-lasting, strong, and requires little maintenance. It is also an energy-efficient option, as it reflects sunlight away from the house, thereby lowering energy costs. However, metal siding is susceptible to dents and carries a higher upfront cost.

Metal siding is a more durable option than vinyl siding, but it is also more expensive. Metal siding is a great choice for those looking to lower their energy costs as it reflects sunlight away from the house. This makes it an energy-efficient option, especially in warmer months, as it keeps the inside of the house cool. Additionally, metal, like fiber cement, does not attract termites, eliminating the need for pest control.

However, one downside of metal siding is that it is prone to dents and carries a higher upfront cost. Metal siding is also not a good insulator on its own and needs to be paired with insulation material to boost energy efficiency. The higher R-value of the material also contributes to its higher cost.

While metal siding is a more expensive option upfront, it can save money in the long run by reducing energy costs. It is also a low-maintenance option, requiring little upkeep. Metal siding is a good choice for those looking for a durable and energy-efficient option, but it is important to consider the higher upfront costs.

Overall, metal siding is a durable and energy-efficient option for homeowners, but its high cost is a significant factor to consider.

Wood siding is eco-friendly and offers customisation, but it's costly to maintain

Wood siding is a popular choice for those seeking an eco-friendly option when remodelling the exterior of their home. Wood is a natural material that does not require any unsustainable resources, such as plastics and chemical finishes, in its production. It is also a good insulator, making it easier to keep warm in winter and cool in summer.

However, wood is not without its drawbacks. Logging is disadvantageous for forestry projects and the environment, so it is best to use reclaimed or rescued timber where possible. Wood siding is also susceptible to moisture, sunlight exposure, and pests, requiring extensive maintenance.

Wood siding offers a fair amount of customisation in colour and style. It is also a decent insulator, but it is not the most durable or long-lasting choice. Wood is flammable and easily destroyed by the elements, and while it is simple to repair, it requires significant maintenance.

Wood siding is also more challenging to install than other types of siding, and it has high upfront installation costs. It is susceptible to rot and pest damage, and it is not as durable as some other types of siding.

Overall, wood siding can be a beautiful and eco-friendly choice for the exterior of your home, but it requires careful consideration of the pros and cons before making a decision.

Fiber cement siding is highly durable and fire-resistant, but it's not a good insulator

While brick is a reliable material for houses, it may not be everyone's aesthetic. If you're looking to update the exterior of your home, you can install siding over a brick exterior. However, this can be a challenging process, especially if the brick surface is not smooth and level.

One of the most common types of siding is fiber cement, which is highly durable and fire-resistant. This is due to its unique composition of cement, sand, and cellulose fibers, which make it a sturdy and non-combustible material. The cement provides excellent fire resistance, while the sand and cellulose fibers enhance its resistance to flames and prevent cracking or crumbling when exposed to high temperatures.

Fiber cement siding has passed some of the strictest fire certification requirements, and it is particularly beneficial for homes in areas prone to wildfires. It acts as a barrier, preventing flames from penetrating the home's exterior and slowing down the spread of fire, thus providing an added layer of safety.

However, one drawback of fiber cement siding is its insulation properties. While it excels in durability and fire resistance, it is not a good insulator. This means that if you prioritize improving the insulation of your home, other types of siding, such as vinyl or metal, might be more suitable options to consider.

Additionally, it is important to note that installing siding over brick can be more challenging and may require adjustments to window and door frames due to the increased wall thickness. In some cases, it might be more feasible to remove the brick exterior before installing the new siding.

Brick siding is attractive and long-lasting, but it's one of the most expensive options

Brick siding is a great option for those who want an attractive and long-lasting exterior for their home. It is a classic choice that complements any style of property and can be used to create a warm and inviting feel. However, it is one of the most expensive siding options available.

Brick siding has a predicted lifespan of over 100 years, and if maintained well, it can last even longer. This makes it a lifetime choice and a decision that should be carefully considered. The material costs and labour for installing brick siding average between $9.70 and $15.30 per square foot. The lifetime cost is 78 cents per square foot per year of expected life, which is significantly higher than other durable siding options like fiber-cement, which has a lifetime cost of 51 cents per square foot per year.

The high cost of brick siding is due to the extensive labour required for installation. The process is challenging and time-consuming, especially if the brick siding is being installed over an existing wall. The surface needs to be level and smooth, which requires additional work if the wall is made of brick or another uneven material.

While brick siding is expensive, it has several advantages. It is incredibly durable and resistant to rot, mould, mildew, warping, and insect damage. Maintenance is minimal and mainly involves maintaining the grout and repairing any cracks to prevent moisture penetration.

For those who want the look of brick without the high cost, thin brick veneer is a more affordable option. Veneer is much lighter and easier to work with, resulting in lower installation costs. It can be applied to various surfaces, including concrete, drywall, and cement board, and provides an extra layer of protection from the weather. However, it will not make the walls more robust.

Overall, brick siding is a beautiful and long-lasting choice for the exterior of a home, but it is a significant investment that should be carefully considered.

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