When considering exterior cladding options for a home, brick and vinyl siding represent two popular yet distinctly different choices. Homeowners often find themselves weighing these options based on factors like upfront costs, long-term value, aesthetic appeal, and maintenance requirements. Brick offers classic durability with higher initial costs, while vinyl provides affordability and low maintenance with a shorter lifespan. This comprehensive comparison explores the prices, installation costs, leading manufacturers, and the advantages and disadvantages of both materials to help homeowners make informed decisions for their specific needs and budget constraints.
Brick siding consists of individual clay bricks mortared together to create a solid, permanent exterior wall. Traditional brick siding uses genuine clay bricks, while brick veneer applies a thinner layer of brick to the home’s exterior. Brick has been used in construction for thousands of years and remains popular for its classical appearance and exceptional durability.
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Vinyl siding, introduced in the 1950s, is made from polyvinyl chloride (PVC) plastic. Modern vinyl siding products are manufactured with UV stabilizers to prevent fading and additives that increase impact resistance. Vinyl siding comes in various styles that can mimic other materials, including wood grain textures and brick patterns. It’s typically installed in horizontal or vertical panels that interlock to create a continuous surface.
Cost Comparison: Brick vs Vinyl Siding
The material cost difference between brick and vinyl is substantial, with brick typically costing 2-3 times more than vinyl siding. The price varies based on quality, style, and regional factors. Here’s a detailed cost breakdown:
| Siding Type | Material Cost (per sq ft) | Average Cost for 2,000 sq ft Home (materials only) |
|---|---|---|
| Vinyl Siding (Standard) | $3-$7 | $6,000-$14,000 |
| Vinyl Siding (Premium) | $7-$12 | $14,000-$24,000 |
| Brick Veneer | $9-$17 | $18,000-$34,000 |
| Traditional Brick | $14-$30 | $28,000-$60,000 |
According to the Brick Industry Association, while the upfront cost of brick is higher, homeowners can recoup much of this investment through increased home value, lower insurance premiums, and reduced energy costs. The National Association of Home Builders estimates that brick homes typically sell for about 6% more than comparable homes with vinyl siding.
Installation Costs for Brick and Vinyl Siding
Installation costs significantly impact the total expense of exterior cladding projects. Vinyl siding installation is generally 50-60% less expensive than brick installation due to less specialized labor requirements and faster completion time.
Brick installation requires skilled masons who command higher hourly rates ($50-$100 per hour). The installation process is labor-intensive and time-consuming, involving precise laying of individual bricks and applying mortar. A typical brick siding installation for a 2,000 square foot home may require 2-3 weeks to complete and cost $15,000-$42,000 for labor alone.
Vinyl siding installation can often be completed by general contractors or experienced DIYers. The process involves hanging panels and securing them to the home’s exterior. A professional vinyl installation for the same 2,000 square foot home might take 3-5 days and cost $5,000-$13,000 for labor. DIY installation can save substantially on labor costs but requires proper tools and knowledge.
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Best Brands for Brick and Vinyl Siding
Top Brick Manufacturers
- Boral Bricks – Known for extensive color options and sustainable manufacturing practices
- Acme Brick – America’s largest brick manufacturer with a 100-year warranty on residential products
- Glen-Gery – Renowned for architectural brick and premium aesthetics
- Endicott Clay Products – Specializes in high-quality clay brick with superior durability
- General Shale – Offers diverse sizes, textures, and colors with strong environmental credentials
Leading Vinyl Siding Manufacturers
- CertainTeed – Premium vinyl siding with class-leading warranties and realistic wood textures
- James Hardie – While primarily known for fiber cement, they offer vinyl options with superior durability
- Royal Building Products – Known for innovative designs and advanced color retention technology
- Alside – Budget-friendly options with good quality and diverse style selection
- Ply Gem – Extensive color options and versatile profiles at competitive price points
According to Consumer Reports and contractor surveys, CertainTeed consistently ranks highest for vinyl siding quality, while Acme Brick and Boral lead customer satisfaction ratings for brick products. Brand selection should consider regional availability, warranty terms, and specific aesthetic requirements.
Pros and Cons of Brick Siding
Advantages of Brick
- Exceptional durability – Can last over 100 years with proper installation
- Fire resistance – Non-combustible material that can withstand high temperatures
- Energy efficiency – Excellent thermal mass properties that help regulate indoor temperatures
- Minimal maintenance – Requires little to no ongoing maintenance beyond occasional cleaning
- Increased home value – Typically adds more resale value than vinyl alternatives
- Natural insect resistance – Not susceptible to termites or other wood-boring pests
- Sound insulation – Superior noise reduction compared to vinyl siding
Disadvantages of Brick
- High initial cost – Significantly more expensive than vinyl for materials and installation
- Difficult to modify – Changes or repairs are complicated and often visible
- Limited color options – Color is permanent and cannot be easily changed
- Weight concerns – May require additional structural support, especially for brick veneer retrofits
- Vulnerable mortar joints – Mortar may require repointing every 20-30 years
- Challenging installation – Requires specialized skills and longer installation timeframes
Pros and Cons of Vinyl Siding
Advantages of Vinyl
- Cost-effective – Significantly lower initial installation cost than brick
- Low maintenance – Requires only occasional cleaning with no painting or sealing needed
- Versatile appearance – Available in numerous colors, textures, and styles
- DIY-friendly installation – Can be installed without specialized skills or equipment
- Lightweight – No structural reinforcement needed
- Color variety – Extensive color options to match any home design
- Energy efficiency – Insulated vinyl siding can improve a home’s thermal performance
Disadvantages of Vinyl
- Shorter lifespan – Typically lasts 20-40 years compared to brick’s century-plus durability
- Susceptible to damage – Can crack in extreme cold or warp in high heat
- Lower fire resistance – Will melt and release toxic fumes when exposed to fire
- Environmental concerns – PVC production and disposal raise sustainability questions
- Potential fading – Color may fade over time despite UV-resistant treatments
- Lower resale value – Typically adds less to home value than brick exteriors
Durability and Maintenance Comparison
Brick stands as one of the most durable building materials available, commonly lasting more than 100 years. Its maintenance requirements are minimalâtypically limited to occasional cleaning with mild detergent and soft-bristle brushes. The most significant maintenance concern is mortar joints, which may need repointing (replacing deteriorated mortar) every few decades, depending on climate conditions.
Vinyl siding typically lasts 20-40 years depending on quality, installation, and climate. Premium vinyl products can now reach lifespans of 40+ years with enhanced warranties from manufacturers like CertainTeed and Royal Building Products. Maintenance primarily involves annual cleaning with a garden hose or low-pressure washer. Unlike brick, vinyl can be damaged by impact (particularly in cold weather) and may need panel replacement if damaged.
Climate considerations play a significant role in durability. Brick performs exceptionally well in all climates but excels in regions with temperature extremes. Vinyl may become brittle in extreme cold and can warp in intense heat, making it less ideal for regions with harsh weather conditions. According to the National Association of Home Builders, brick siding requires replacement less than half as often as vinyl siding.
Which is Better for Your Home?
The ideal choice between brick and vinyl siding depends on several factors specific to each homeowner’s situation. Brick generally provides the better long-term value for those planning to stay in their homes for decades, particularly in regions prone to severe weather. The higher upfront investment typically pays off through increased property values, lower maintenance costs, and superior durability.
Vinyl siding offers the better short-term value and makes sense for budget-conscious homeowners or those who may sell within 5-10 years. It’s also appropriate for rental properties where maximum initial investment return is prioritized over long-term performance. Modern premium vinyl options have narrowed the quality gap considerably, offering improved aesthetics and durability.
Regional factors also influence the decision. In hurricane-prone areas, brick’s superior wind resistance provides significant advantages. In contrast, vinyl’s flexibility and lower weight may be beneficial in earthquake-prone regions. Local architectural styles and neighborhood aesthetics should also factor into the decision, as home exteriors that complement surrounding properties typically maintain better resale value.