One of the first things you notice when you walk up to a home is the siding. It sets the tone before you ever step inside. Two popular siding options you will often see are stucco and brick. Both are very common, low-maintenance, and high-quality materials, so it is fair to wonder which one is more suitable for your home. Whether you’re house-hunting or looking to build from the ground up, let’s walk through the pros and cons of each.

Stucco is made from cement, sand, water, and sometimes lime. It requires very little maintenance and is highly resistant to pests, rot, and fire. Stucco is also an excellent insulator, which makes it effective at soundproofing and temperature control. One primary reason homeowners choose stucco over brick is the cost. On average, stucco costs between $2,500 and $4,500 to install. On the other hand, a brick typically costs between $9,000 and $12,500. These prices include both materials and installation, as well as painting in the case of stucco. Another benefit of stucco is its lifespan of 50 years or more and its durability in hot and dry regions.

There are still a few things to consider before choosing stucco, especially regarding moisture. Although the painted surface of stucco helps reduce moisture absorption compared to brick, it can still trap moisture. This can lead to mold if not properly maintained. Repairs can also be extensive, as damaged areas often require entire sections to be redone rather than simply minor touch-ups. Over time, stucco can develop cracks, which usually means repairs and repainting about every decade.

Brick, on the other hand, is made from burnt clay and has an instantly recognizable, timeless aesthetic. Brick is highly durable in harsh weather conditions and is also resistant to pests, rot, and fire. While brick is more expensive to install, it can last for centuries if installed and maintained properly. Brick also holds its value well, which means you may see a return on your investment when it comes time to sell your home.

That said, brick has its own drawbacks. Brick has limited color options, with most falling into various shades of red. Compared to stucco, brick installation is also costly and time-consuming. Additionally, because brick lacks a protective paint layer like stucco, it can be more susceptible to mold in damp conditions. The upside is that brick is easier to repair since individual bricks can be replaced
without tearing out large sections of siding.

Both stucco and brick have clear advantages and disadvantages. The right choice depends on the look you want, the climate you live in, and how much you are willing to invest in your home’s siding right now. Either option can be a durable and attractive choice for years to come. Details like this matter, and so do the people guiding those decisions.

Until Next Time,
Dee Dee Guggenheim Howes

Sources:
https://premierbuildingrestoration.com/stucco-vs-brick-understanding-their-pros-and-cons/
https://burbachexteriors.com/blog/choosing-stucco-vs-brick-for-your-homes-siding/