When choosing exterior finishes, homeowners often weigh the cost to brick a house vs. siding as two of the most popular options in America. Each material offers distinctive advantages in durability, aesthetics, and maintenance, but their costs can vary significantly based on region, home size, and selected style. This comprehensive guide details upfront costs, installation requirements, ongoing maintenance, and key comparison points to help you make an informed decision.
| Feature | Brick | Siding (Vinyl, Fiber Cement, Wood, etc.) |
|---|---|---|
| Average Cost Per Square Foot (Installed) | $12 – $25 | $4 – $12 (Vinyl); $6 – $13 (Fiber Cement); $7 – $14 (Wood) |
| Total Cost For 2,500 Sq Ft Home | $30,000 – $60,000+ | $10,000 – $32,500 |
| Maintenance Needs | Low | Low (Vinyl); Moderate (Wood); Low (Fiber Cement) |
| Lifespan | 50-100+ years | 20-40 years (Vinyl); 30-50 years (Fiber Cement); 20-40 years (Wood) |
| Energy Efficiency | High | Moderate |
Cost Factors for Bricking a House
Material Costs
Brick materials are typically more expensive to manufacture and transport compared to siding panels. High-quality clay bricks can cost $6–$10 per square foot before installation. Specialty or handmade bricks may be even pricier, adding to the final bill.
Labor and Installation
The masonry skills needed to install brick are specialized, resulting in labor costs of $6–$15 per square foot. Labor can represent 50% or more of the total project cost, especially in areas with a shortage of skilled masons.
Preparation and Structure
Structural requirements for brick exteriors often involve reinforcing foundations and installing water barriers. Retrofitting existing homes with brick may require additional wall anchoring or adjustments, increasing expenses further.
Regional Price Variations
Costs fluctuate nationally. Mason labor rates and brick supply are higher in certain metropolitan markets or regions distant from brick manufacturers, notably the West Coast and Northeast.
| Brick Cost Perspective | Estimated Cost Range | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Materials Only | $6 – $10/sq ft | Basic red brick, price increases for specialty |
| Labor | $6 – $15/sq ft | Higher with experienced masons |
| Preparation/Structure | $2,000 – $10,000+ | Depends on house condition and design |
Cost Factors for Installing Siding
Types Of Siding Materials
Siding offers a wider variety of materials—including vinyl, fiber cement, engineered wood, natural wood, and metal. Costs range widely, with vinyl at the budget end and premium engineered materials or natural wood at the higher end.
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Installation Costs
Siding installation costs less per square foot ($2–$6) than brick due to faster installation times and more widespread contractor availability. Fiber cement and wood require additional care, increasing labor costs somewhat.
Accessory Needs
Corners, trim, soffits, and underlayment materials add to the final bill. Higher-end exteriors may require custom color matching or specialized installation, especially with fiber cement or engineered woods.
Regional Differences
Vinyl is most economical and common in the Midwest and Northeast, while fiber cement or stucco is popular in areas like Texas and California. Local weather influences siding material choice and price.
| Siding Material | Material Cost (sq ft) | Labor Cost (sq ft) | Total Installed Cost (sq ft) |
|---|---|---|---|
| Vinyl | $2 – $5 | $2 – $5 | $4 – $10 |
| Fiber Cement | $3 – $7 | $3 – $6 | $6 – $13 |
| Engineered Wood | $4 – $8 | $3 – $6 | $7 – $14 |
| Natural Wood | $3 – $8 | $4 – $8 | $7 – $16 |
Average Cost By House Size
Breakdown Of Projected Costs
The total cost to brick or side a house will ultimately depend on the home’s footprint. Here are typical installed price ranges for three popular home sizes:
| Home Size (Sq Ft) | Brick Installed | Vinyl Siding Installed | Fiber Cement Siding Installed | Wood Siding Installed |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1,500 | $18,000 – $37,500 | $6,000 – $15,000 | $9,000 – $19,500 | $10,500 – $24,000 |
| 2,500 | $30,000 – $62,500 | $10,000 – $25,000 | $15,000 – $32,500 | $17,500 – $40,000 |
| 4,000 | $48,000 – $100,000 | $16,000 – $40,000 | $24,000 – $52,000 | $28,000 – $64,000 |
Durability And Lifespan Comparison
Long-Term Value Of Brick
Brick exteriors often last a lifetime and resist fire, pests, and severe weather. Brick can easily last 50 to over 100 years with little maintenance beyond occasional cleaning and tuckpointing.
Siding Longevity: Material Matters
Vinyl siding generally lasts 20–40 years, while fiber cement may stretch to 50 years with proper care. Wood siding’s lifespan depends on climate and maintenance, typically 20–40 years. Proper maintenance directly impacts siding longevity and replacement cycle frequency.
| Exterior Material | Expected Lifespan | Primary Threats | Maintenance Frequency |
|---|---|---|---|
| Brick | 50–100+ years | Tuckpointing (rare), cleaning | Very Low |
| Vinyl Siding | 20–40 years | Fading, dents | Low |
| Fiber Cement Siding | 30–50 years | Cracking, paint wear | Low/Moderate |
| Wood Siding | 20–40 years | Rot, insects, weather | Moderate/High |
Energy Efficiency And Insulation
Thermal Benefits Of Brick
Brick is highly energy-efficient due to its thermal mass, helping to moderate interior temperature swings. This enhances comfort and may lower heating and cooling bills, particularly in southern and midwestern states.
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Siding Insulation Options
Standard siding is less insulating, but insulated vinyl or added sheathing can improve R-values. Fiber cement and engineered wood offer moderate insulation, but often require extra layers for energy savings comparable to brick.
Resale Value And Curb Appeal
Market Preferences
Brick is viewed as a premium finish, usually boosting property value and curb appeal more than siding. In historic neighborhoods or luxury markets, brick exteriors are particularly desirable.
Cost Recovery And ROI
According to cost-value studies, brick can recoup up to 90% of its installation costs in resale value, while new siding averages 70–80%. The return depends on location, housing market conditions, and buyer preferences.
Maintenance And Ongoing Expenses
Brick Maintenance
Brick exteriors require infrequent tuckpointing and periodic cleaning. Total annual maintenance averages $0.25–$0.50 per square foot, or $375–$750/year for a 1,500 sq ft home. Repairs are rare unless moisture barriers fail.
Siding Maintenance
Vinyl and fiber cement siding need occasional washing and may need caulking or painting every 5–10 years (especially fiber cement). Wood siding requires annual inspections, staining or painting every 3–5 years, and periodic pest/mold treatments, leading to higher ongoing costs.
| Exterior Finish | Annual Maintenance ($/sq ft) | Average Annual Cost (1,500 sq ft) |
|---|---|---|
| Brick | $0.25 – $0.50 | $375 – $750 |
| Vinyl Siding | $0.10 – $0.25 | $150 – $375 |
| Fiber Cement Siding | $0.20 – $0.50 | $300 – $750 |
| Wood Siding | $0.50 – $1.00 | $750 – $1,500 |
Insurance Premiums And Safety Factors
Insurance Savings With Brick
Brick’s superior fire and wind resistance may qualify homeowners for lower insurance premiums. Many carriers offer discounts when brick is used for the full exterior envelope, especially in hurricane or wildfire-prone regions.
Siding Risk Considerations
Siding materials vary in fire and impact resistance. Vinyl and wood can increase insurance costs compared to brick or fiber cement due to higher susceptibility to fire, storms, and pests.
Environmental Impact
Sustainability Of Brick
Brick is made from clay and shale, both abundant natural resources. Modern brick manufacturing is cleaner than in previous decades, and brick’s longevity reduces its lifetime impact per use cycle.
Eco-Friendliness Of Siding
Vinyl siding is petroleum-based and less environmentally friendly, but can be recycled. Wood siding is renewable if sourced responsibly. Fiber cement has a moderate footprint; some brands now offer recycled materials in production.
Summary Table: Cost To Brick A House Vs. Siding
| Perspective | Brick | Siding |
|---|---|---|
| Initial Installation | $18,000 – $100,000+ (by home size) | $6,000 – $64,000 (by type/size) |
| Maintenance (Annual) | $375 – $750 (1,500 sq ft) | $150 – $1,500 (material dependent) |
| Lifespan | 50–100+ years | 20–50 years |
| Energy Efficiency | High | Moderate (improved w/ insulation) |
| Resale Value/Add Value | High | Moderate/High |
| Insurance Savings | Moderate/High in high-risk zones | Varies, often lower |
| Environmental Impact | Low (long lifespan, clay-based) | Varies by material |
Which Is Best For Your Home?
Choosing between brick and siding hinges on your budget, long-term goals, aesthetics, and local climate. Brick has a higher upfront cost, exceptional longevity, and may offer more energy savings and curb appeal. Siding, especially vinyl, is economical to install and easy to replace or upgrade, although its replacement cycle and maintenance may add costs over the years.
Assess the total lifecycle cost and value, not just the initial investment, to make a choice that fits your objectives and your home’s unique needs.