Brick Veneer Siding

Brick Veneer Siding: An Imitation, Yet So Real

In recent years, middle-class neighborhoods have become filled with homes that appear to be made of brick. However, if you look a little more closely, you’ll notice that many of these homes aren’t actually constructed of brick.  Brick homes, while good-looking and sturdy, are expensive to install.  Therefore, in order to give the appearance of a solid brick home, brick veneer siding was invented. 

The Major Difference – When a house is constructed from bricks, the bricks actually are constructed block-by-block so as to hold up the house.  By contrast, brick veneer siding is held up by the house.  It’s a single layer of siding that’s placed over the original wooden framework of a house. The “bricks” are then secured to the home with metal ties, which allow small gaps of air between the wall and the new siding.

Advantages
Like solid brick, Brick veneer siding is durable and fireproof.  You’ll also never need to do any maintenance on your home’s exterior.  In addition, since brick veneer siding is a form of masonry, it will provide excellent insulation against the elements.  Plus, it traps air within the gaps between the two exterior walls, something that even solid brick can’t do.

Drawbacks
Because there is a small gap between those two walls, moisture can get trapped, which can cause problems for the interior of your home.   Brick is also porous, so when it rains, water can “hang out” for an extended period of time between the brick and the mortar, which can damage your home’s exterior.  If you’re going to install brick veneer siding, make sure that a water-resistant surface is placed over the home's original framework so as to prevent moisture from seeping into the surface.

Call the Experts
Don’t install this yourself.  With bricks, you’re adding weight to the foundation.  Masonry projects require specific calculations and construction, which takes into account many factors, such as your location, climate conditions, and the type of soil you’re building on.  Determining these factors require the skill of an expert.   And if you live in an area that is prone to earthquakes, you may need to pass special zoning codes.  Consulting a mason may cost more, but it will take the headaches out of these particulars.