Siding FAQ: What Are the Benefits of Brick Siding?

When building a house, siding is one of the most important considerations. Not only is it one of the first lines of defense against the outside elements, but it is also a major design and style feature of your home. There are plenty of  siding materials to choose from that range from low budget to premium, with different looks, durability, maintenance levels and more. In this article, we will be specifically looking at brick siding and its benefits

What is Siding?

Siding is any material that covers, protects or clads the exterior walls of a home or residential building.

What is Siding Made from?

Siding is made from a variety of materials, with some of the most common being vinyl, fiber cement, stucco, wood and brick.

What Does Siding Do?

Siding has two main functions:

1. It plays a vital role in protecting your home from the elements, as well as the security of your home. Siding protects your house from inclement weather such as rain, snow and wind, while also helping to keep your home properly insulated.
2. The second function and purpose of siding is to give your house great curb appeal, which is very important if you plan on selling your home in the future.

The Benefits of Brick Siding

Eco-Friendly & Energy Efficient

Modern brick homes are some of the most eco-friendly on the market as they are typically made out of clay and shale, which are two naturally occurring and abundant materials. Bricks are also naturally resistant to mold, rot, and mildew as they are excellent at coping with high humidity – this is one of the reasons brick siding homes can last a century or more, and can be repurposed over and over.

Brick is also one of the most energy-efficient materials, meaning it helps keep the heat out and cool air in and vice versa. Brick, for example, holds nearly double the amount of heat of wood, making it an excellent insulator year round.

Durable

If you are looking for the most durable siding, you cannot go past brick siding which truly holds its own against other popular siding options like vinyl and wood. Brick siding can withstand high impact with cracking or denting, and it’s also one of the most fire-resistant materials.

Brick siding is great at withstanding high winds, which is ideal for the Maryland and Virginia home which can often see some heavy-duty storms throughout the year. It is worth remembering, however, brick is a porous material, so it is vital you put the right waterproofing behind it or seal or paint the bricks so water does not seep in.

Low Maintenance

Thanks to bricks' durability, it is also very low maintenance. It is resistant to things like termites and ants, and you also do not need to paint brick if you do not want to. In fact, modern brick homes can retain their color for 20 years or more. However, a good pressure wash every so often is recommended. It is also a good idea to check the exterior of your bricks in case there are any cracks or missing parts.

Adds Value to Your Home

Whether you plan on selling or living in your home for a long time, brick homes are incredibly valuable on the market. This is because brick has a classic look and feel, boosted curb appeal, is durable and can last hundreds of years. Brick siding homes may also cost less to insure.

Brick Siding Pros and Cons

Pros

• Durable
• Eco-friendly
• Low maintenance

Brick Siding Cons

• Can be costly
• Limited color & style choices

Is Brick Siding the Right Choice for You?

Speak to the team at WoW today to find the perfect siding option for your home.