🧱 Masonry Matters: How Brick Stacks Up Against the Competition
- social4951
- Apr 14
- 2 min read
April 14th, 2025 - Celebrating National Brick Day with a side-by-side look at today’s top exterior materials.
Brick has been a cornerstone of architecture for centuries — and for good reason. Its unmatched strength, timeless beauty, and low maintenance make it a favorite for homeowners, builders, and architects alike. But how does it compare to other popular exterior materials?
In the first edition of our #MasonryMatters series, we examine how brick performs against artificial wood, vinyl, wood, and stucco so you can make informed choices for your next build or renovation.
Brick vs. Artificial Wood (Fiber Cement)
Durability: Brick can endure for well over a century with minimal upkeep, as evident by buildings that have stood the test of time for thousands of years. Artificial wood can last longer than natural products but may require repainting. It is prone to cracking and impact damage over time.
Moisture Resistance: Brick walls provide a moisture-resistant rain screen that won’t rot or warp. Water can penetrate Artificial wood if it is not properly sealed, leading to potential damage.
Curb Appeal: Brick offers a classic, high-end aesthetic. Artificial Wood can mimic the look of other materials but lacks the depth and authenticity of natural masonry.
Brick vs. Vinyl Siding
Longevity: Brick buildings can stand strong for 100+ years. Vinyl siding usually needs replacing after a decade or two.
Maintenance: Brick requires almost no maintenance. Vinyl is more susceptible to fading, warping, and damage from temperatures found in warmer climates. Vinyl siding is also at risk for growing mold, mildew, and algae.
Fire Resistance: Brick is non-combustible and helps contain fires. Vinyl melts under high heat, increasing potential risk.
Brick vs. Wood
Weathering: Brick holds up beautifully over time. Wood can rot, crack, or suffer termite damage without frequent care.
Maintenance: Brick is practically maintenance-free. Wood requires regular staining, sealing, or painting to stay protected.
Sustainability: Brick is made from natural, recyclable materials like clay and shale. While wood is renewable, harvesting and treatment processes can have a higher environmental impact.
Brick vs. Stucco
Climate Performance: Brick performs well across all climate zones. Stucco is less suited for freeze-thaw environments and can crack easily.
Energy & Sound: Brick provides excellent thermal mass and sound insulation. Stucco performs moderately well but doesn’t offer the same long-term energy efficiency.
🏆 The Verdict
Brick continues to outperform many modern cladding alternatives, offering unmatched:
Durability and resilience
Low-maintenance living
Fire and weather protection
Timeless curb appeal
Long-term value and ROI
Stay tuned for more deep dives in our #MasonryMatters series, where we’ll continue to explore the advantages of brick, stone, and other masonry products.
👉 Have questions about which material is right for your next project? Visit one of our showrooms or reach out to our expert team today.
