If you want long-term strength and low maintenance, brick is the better choice. If you want a budget-friendly option with flexible design, siding works well.
Brick is strong, durable, and low-maintenance. It lasts for decades, resists fire and pests, and adds high resale value. But it costs more upfront and takes longer to install.
Siding is affordable, easier to install, and comes in many styles and colors. It needs more upkeep and can be less durable, especially in harsh weather.
Consider your budget, climate, and how much upkeep you want before deciding. For expert advice and installation, call +1 718-450-7233.
Siding, especially vinyl, fiber cement, and engineered wood, offers more styles, lower upfront costs, and faster installation.
But which one fits your budget, climate, and long-term goals best?
What Are the Main Differences Between Brick vs Siding?
Brick and siding may both cover your house, but they’re nothing alike in how they look, perform, or even how they’re made.
Brick is made from clay or shale, fired at high temperatures. It’s solid, heavy, and has a rich, earthy texture. It’s been used for centuries and is often seen in historic or luxury homes. Brick lasts a long time up to 100 years or more and it’s very resistant to fire, pests, and weather.
Siding, on the other hand, is a broader term. It includes materials like:
- Vinyl siding (lightweight plastic panels)
- Fiber cement (made of sand, cement, and cellulose)
- Engineered wood (compressed wood fibers and resin)
- Aluminum or steel panels
Each siding type offers its own benefits and downsides. Some are more budget-friendly. Others give a natural wood look without the upkeep. But most don’t last as long as real brick.
Side-by-Side Comparison Table Siding vs Brick
| Feature | Brick | Siding (Vinyl/Fiber/Engineered) |
| Material Type | Natural clay or shale | Synthetic or composite |
| Lifespan | 75–100+ years | 20–50 years |
| Fire Resistance | Excellent | Varies by type (vinyl is poor) |
| Installation Time | Longer | Quicker |
| Maintenance | Very low | Moderate (depends on material) |
| Style Flexibility | Limited | High |
| Upfront Cost | High | Low to moderate |
How Much Does Brick or Siding Cost in 2025?
When it comes to cost, siding usually wins at first glance. But that’s not the full picture.
Upfront Installation Cost (Per Square Foot)
| Material | Cost per Sq. Ft (Installed) |
| Brick | $12 – $20 |
| Vinyl Siding | $4 – $8 |
| Fiber Cement | $6 – $12 |
| Engineered Wood | $7 – $11 |
A 2,000 sq. ft. home exterior could cost:
- Brick: $24,000 – $40,000
- Vinyl Siding: $8,000 – $16,000
- Fiber Cement: $12,000 – $24,000
But what about the long run?
Lifetime Value
Brick lasts longer and adds more resale value. According to Remodeling Magazine’s 2024 report, homes with brick exteriors can see up to 92% ROI. Meanwhile, vinyl siding gives around 67% ROI on average.
Pro Tip: If you live in an area with harsh weather or plan to stay in your home for 20+ years, brick may save you money over time despite the higher initial cost.
Which One Lasts Longer and Requires Less Maintenance?
Brick is the clear winner in durability. Once installed, it can last over a century with minimal upkeep. It doesn’t rot, warp, fade, or melt. Even after decades, brick keeps its structure and color.
Siding materials vary:
- Vinyl siding can last 20–30 years, but it’s prone to cracking, fading, and warping.
- Fiber cement and engineered wood last 30–50 years with proper care.
- All siding types need some level of repainting, cleaning, or sealing.
Maintenance Snapshot
| Task | Brick | Siding |
| Power Washing | Every 2–3 years (light) | Yearly (mold/dirt buildup) |
| Painting | Rare or never | Every 5–10 years (except vinyl) |
| Repairs | Rare (tuckpointing only) | Common (cracks, warping, rot) |
Expert Insight: Brick’s low upkeep is ideal for busy homeowners. Siding, while cheaper to install, may cost more in repairs and repainting over time.
Which Is Better for Energy Efficiency?
This is where things get tricky. Brick has thermal mass, which helps keep indoor temperatures steady. It absorbs heat during the day and releases it slowly, which helps in hot climates.
Siding, however, doesn’t offer much thermal protection by itself. But many siding systems include insulated backer boards or wraps that improve R-values (a measure of insulation).
Energy Efficiency Comparison
| Feature | Brick | Insulated Siding |
| R-Value (Thermal Rating) | ~0.80 | Up to 3.5 |
| Best Climate Match | Hot climates (thermal mass) | Cold or mixed (added insulation) |
Bottom line: If energy efficiency is a top concern, insulated siding can outperform brick. But in hot, dry areas like Texas or Arizona, brick’s heat-holding ability makes it very effective.
Which One Looks Better And Adds More Curb Appeal?
This depends on your taste, your neighborhood, and your home’s style.
Brick Appeal:
- Timeless and elegant
- Looks rich and traditional
- Boosts resale value
- Limited color choices (natural earth tones)
Siding Appeal:
- More colors and textures
- Matches many home styles (modern, craftsman, colonial)
- Can mimic wood, stone, or brick
- May fade over time (especially vinyl)
Pro Tip: Mixing both can give you the best of both worlds brick on the front for wow factor, siding on the sides for cost savings.
What About Environmental Impact and Sustainability?
If you care about eco-friendliness, both materials have pros and cons.
Brick:
- Made from natural materials
- Energy-intensive to produce (kiln–fired)
- Extremely long lifespan (less landfill waste)
- Fully recyclable
Siding:
- Vinyl is petroleum–based and non–biodegradable
- Fiber cement is durable but energy–intensive
- Engineered wood uses wood waste, but may include glues/resins
Environmental Summary
| Factor | Brick | Siding (varies by type) |
| Raw Material Use | Natural clay | Synthetic or mixed |
| Production Emissions | High (firing process) | Medium to low |
| Longevity | Very long (100+ years) | Moderate (20–50 years) |
| Recyclability | High | Low to moderate |
Expert Note: If sustainability matters to you, choose recycled-content fiber cement or long-lasting engineered wood over vinyl siding.
How Do Brick and Siding Perform in Extreme Weather?
Weather resistance is a major factor, especially in areas prone to storms, heat, or freezing temperatures.
Brick:
- Excellent wind and hail resistance
- Fireproof (ideal for wildfire zones)
- Resists termites and pests
- Not great at insulation in cold climates
Siding:
- Varies by type:
- Vinyl: May crack in cold or melt near fire
- Fiber Cement: Very durable and fire-resistant
- Engineered Wood: Good weather resistance but prone to water damage if not sealed properly
Pro Tip: In hurricane-prone regions, brick provides better peace of mind. In cold, snowy climates, insulated fiber cement siding may perform better thermally.
How Do Brick and Siding Compare in Installation Process and Timeline?
When it comes to getting your home exterior installed, time and labor make a big difference. Brick and siding don’t just cost differently they also take very different paths to go up on your walls.
Brick Installation: Time-Consuming but Built to Last
Brick is heavy and must be installed one piece at a time. A crew of skilled masons lays each brick by hand, using mortar to bond everything together. Before that, your home needs a brick ledge (foundation support), moisture barrier, and sometimes metal ties to anchor the brick to the framing.
This process takes time often 7 to 14 days for an average home. Larger homes or custom brickwork can take up to 3 weeks or more.
It’s not just about stacking bricks. Masons must follow patterns, keep lines straight, and control drying time. Plus, work may pause in bad weather (rain, snow, or freezing temps can delay brick laying).
Siding Installation: Faster and More Flexible
Siding, especially vinyl, engineered wood, or fiber cement is quicker and simpler to install. Panels come pre-cut or easily cut on-site, and they snap or nail into place over a moisture barrier. There’s no need for mortar or specialty equipment.
Depending on the home size and crew, siding jobs usually take 2 to 5 days. Some vinyl jobs are even done in one day, especially if replacing old siding rather than starting from scratch.
Pro Tip: If you’re under tight deadlines or doing a major remodel during winter, siding gives you more scheduling flexibility.
Installation Timeline Comparison
| Task | Brick | Siding |
| Prep Work Needed | Yes (ledge, ties, moisture wrap) | Yes (moisture wrap only) |
| Labor Intensity | High (manual masonry) | Medium (panel-based install) |
| Weather Sensitivity | Very sensitive | Less affected |
| Total Time to Complete | 7–21 days | 1–5 days |
Expert Insight: Brick looks beautiful, but it’s slow and costly to install. Siding goes up faster and lets you finish your project with less downtime or weather worries.
Can You Combine Brick and Siding on the Same House?
Yes, and many homeowners do.
This approach is called “brick veneer with siding accents” or mixed-material exterior. It offers:
- A rich look up front (brick around the entryway or lower facade)
- Budget savings on the sides/back (siding panels)
- Design flexibility
Real-World Example: A 2-story suburban home with a brick front and vinyl siding on the sides can cost $10,000–$15,000 less than full-brick, without sacrificing style.
Expert Insight: If you love brick’s look but not the full price tag, combining materials can deliver big curb appeal on a smaller budget.
Final Thoughts: Brick or Siding – What’s Right for You?
Brick and siding each have their place in home design and your choice depends on what matters most to you.
Brick is unmatched for durability and classic appeal, while siding offers cost savings, flexibility, and energy efficiency. Your final decision should weigh your climate, home style, budget, and how long you plan to stay in your home.
If you’re still on the fence, reach out to local pros who can walk you through the real numbers. Companies like S&R General Construction NYC specialize in both siding and masonry, giving you balanced, expert guidance, not a one-sided sales pitch.
Whatever you choose, make sure it’s a choice that works for both your present needs and your home’s long-term value.
Need Help Deciding? Don’t settle for guesswork. Schedule a consultation with S&R General Construction NYC and get a tailored recommendation that matches your vision, budget, and environment.
Frequently Asked Questions About Brick vs Siding
Is brick really more expensive than siding?
Yes, brick almost always costs more upfront than siding. A full brick exterior can cost 2 to 3 times more than vinyl or fiber cement siding. But brick lasts longer, often 100+ years so it might save you money long-term through fewer repairs and higher resale value.
Does siding require more maintenance than brick?
Yes. Most siding needs more attention than brick. Vinyl can crack or fade. Fiber cement might need repainting every 10–15 years. Engineered wood has to be sealed to protect it from water. Brick, on the other hand, rarely needs more than the occasional wash or mortar touch-up.
Which one adds more value to a home brick or siding?
Brick typically adds more value. Homes with brick exteriors often have higher resale prices and attract more buyers. According to industry data, brick offers up to 92% return on investment, while vinyl siding averages around 67%. Still, well-installed siding in good condition can also boost curb appeal.
Is siding as strong as brick in storms or fires?
Not quite. Brick is more durable in extreme conditions. It holds up better to high winds, hail, and wildfires. Siding strength depends on the type. Vinyl is the least fire-resistant. Fiber cement and engineered wood do better, but they can still be damaged by flying debris or heat.
Can I mix brick and siding on the same house?
Absolutely and many homeowners do. You can use brick in the front for that strong, high-end look, and install siding on the sides and back to save money. This mix can give your home style and keep your budget in check.
Which is better for energy efficiency: brick or siding?
It depends. Brick offers thermal mass, which helps keep homes cool in hot weather. But insulated siding usually provides better R-values, which is key in cold climates. If energy efficiency matters most, insulated fiber cement or foam-backed vinyl siding might outperform brick in certain regions.