Homeowners looking to update the exterior of their homes often wonder about the possibility of installing siding over existing brick. While brick is a durable and long-lasting material, siding can provide an opportunity for a fresh look, better insulation, and improved energy efficiency. But is it the right choice for your home? If you’re considering this option, it’s important to weigh the pros and cons of installing siding over brick. In this article, we’ll explore these factors, especially for homeowners in Barrie, and provide insights on working with Barrie siding companies.
What Is Siding Over Brick?
Installing siding over brick involves attaching a layer of siding (wood, vinyl, fiber cement, or another material) over your home’s existing brick surface. This process typically requires the installation of furring strips (wood or metal) to create a secure foundation for the siding to be fastened to. It’s a common method used to give homes an updated appearance or to improve energy efficiency without the need to remove the brick.
Pros of Installing Siding Over Brick
1. Improved Aesthetic Appeal
One of the most immediate benefits of installing siding over brick is the potential for a dramatic change in the appearance of your home. While brick is a classic material, it can sometimes look outdated or mismatched with modern design trends. By choosing siding, you can completely transform the look of your home. This is particularly beneficial if your brick is showing signs of wear or no longer matches your style preferences.
For example, many homeowners in Barrie prefer siding options like vinyl, fiber cement, or wood that come in a variety of colors and textures. These materials can offer a sleek, contemporary look or a more rustic feel, depending on your tastes.
2. Enhanced Insulation and Energy Efficiency
Siding can significantly improve the insulation of your home, helping to reduce energy costs. If your brick walls aren’t insulated, installing siding over brick provides the opportunity to add insulation between the layers. Many modern siding materials are designed to increase energy efficiency by providing an extra layer of thermal protection, keeping your home warmer in winter and cooler in summer.
For colder climates like Barrie, where winters can be harsh, this added insulation can result in significant savings on heating bills.
3. Cost-Effective Update
Removing brick and replacing it with new materials can be expensive and labor-intensive. Installing siding over brick, however, can be a more cost-effective solution. You avoid the high costs of demolition and disposal associated with removing brick, which can make the siding installation process more affordable overall. This is a great option for homeowners who want to update their home’s look without breaking the bank.
4. Increased Property Value
A fresh new exterior can increase the overall value of your home. For homeowners in Barrie, where real estate values can fluctuate, investing in a siding upgrade over brick could enhance your home’s curb appeal, making it more attractive to potential buyers. When done properly, the right siding material can elevate your home’s appearance and improve its marketability, which is beneficial if you plan to sell in the future.
5. Low Maintenance
Many modern siding materials, such as vinyl, require minimal maintenance. Once installed, they often just need occasional cleaning to maintain their appearance. This is a stark contrast to brick, which can require more maintenance over time, especially if the mortar begins to erode or if there are cracks in the brickwork. Siding offers a low-maintenance alternative that still provides a fresh, clean look for your home.
Cons of Installing Siding Over Brick
1. Possible Structural Issues
While installing siding over brick is possible, there are some structural concerns to keep in mind. Brick is a heavy material, and adding another layer on top of it can sometimes add additional weight to the structure. Depending on the condition of your home’s foundation and brickwork, the added weight of siding could put stress on your building’s structural integrity.
It’s essential to consult with a professional contractor, especially if you’re working with Barrie siding companies, to ensure your home can support the additional weight. A structural inspection may be required to determine if your foundation and walls are strong enough for the added load.
2. Potential Hidden Problems
When you install siding over brick, any underlying issues in the brickwork, such as cracks or water damage, may be hidden from view. If moisture is trapped between the brick and siding, it can lead to mold or rot over time. Additionally, if the brick has damage that isn’t addressed before the siding is installed, these issues could worsen and lead to costly repairs down the road.
Before proceeding with the installation, it’s crucial to thoroughly inspect the brickwork to ensure there are no hidden problems that could complicate the project.
3. Limited Ability to Repair or Restore Brick
Once you install siding over brick, it becomes challenging to repair or restore the brick beneath without removing the siding. If you ever want to revert to the original brick appearance or fix damage to the brick, you’ll need to remove the siding first. This could add to the cost and complexity if you ever decide to change the exterior of your home again.
4. Increased Installation Complexity
Installing siding over brick can be a more complex and time-consuming project compared to installing siding directly on wooden surfaces or other types of siding. The need for furring strips, proper moisture barriers, and ensuring proper ventilation behind the siding all add to the difficulty of the job. It’s crucial to hire experienced professionals to ensure the installation is done correctly.
Working with Barrie siding companies ensures that the installation process is managed properly, minimizing potential issues with the final result.
Conclusion
Installing siding over brick can be an excellent way to update your home’s appearance, improve energy efficiency, and save money on costly demolition. However, there are potential downsides to consider, such as structural concerns, hidden issues with the brick, and the complexity of the installation process. For homeowners in Barrie, it’s important to consult with experienced Barrie siding companies to assess the feasibility of the project and ensure the best possible outcome.
If you’re looking for an affordable, low-maintenance update that enhances both the aesthetics and energy efficiency of your home, siding over brick could be the right solution for you. Just be sure to weigh the pros and cons carefully and work with professionals who can help guide you through the process.
