Brick facade alternatives include stone, rainscreens, fiber cement

October 6, 2023

Changing aesthetic preferences, cost considerations, and technological advancements in construction materials make brick facades less popular.

Alternatives include stone, rainscreens, fiber cement siding, engineered wood, or brick veneer.

Traditional red brick tends to make a home look dated, said Chris Withers, president and co-owner of Old Greenwich Builders.

“Brick facades are less popular than they used to be, especially in the Wash Park area,” said Lauren Browne, operations director at Denver-based custom home builder Larsen.

Instead, the company sees more demand for stone or painted brick. Cedar accents are also popular.

Stone facades

Stone facades offer many advantages, including durability, aesthetic appeal, low maintenance, and energy efficiency. They can also last for decades.

However, they may be more expensive to install and require additional structural support due to their weight. The installation process is also time-consuming and requires skilled labor.

Rainscreen cladding

Rainscreen cladding offers a range of benefits.

“Rainscreens are fun and lend themselves to some cool design options,” Withers said. “With a rainscreen, the only limit is the creator who is drawing the design.”

The innovative approach uses an outer layer that protects against moisture while allowing air circulation between the exterior wall and the cladding material.

Rainscreen systems help regulate temperatures by creating a buffer zone, reducing heat loss during colder months, and preventing overheating in warmer weather. This energy efficiency can lead to significant energy savings.

Installing rainscreens can be more costly than conventional alternatives due to additional labor requirements and specialized expertise needed. Withers estimates installing rainscreens can cost twice as much as using traditional brick.

Fiber cement siding

Fiber cement siding, made of cement, sand, and cellulose fibers, is durable and offers protection from harsh weather conditions such as wind, rain, and extreme temperatures. It doesn’t rot or warp like traditional wood siding.

Unlike brick or stucco, which may require regular painting or sealing to maintain its appearance, fiber cement siding often comes pre-painted with long-lasting finishes.

Additionally, fiber cement siding provides excellent fire resistance.

Fiber cement panels tend to be heavier than vinyl siding, making installation more challenging and costly.

Engineered wood

Engineered wood is an eco-friendly and sturdy material made from recycled or sustainably sourced materials.

It is lightweight and easy to install, making it more environmentally friendly with lower carbon emissions than traditional brick.

Engineered wood is highly durable and withstands extreme weather conditions without warping or fading. Proper treatment may offer the same fire resistance as brick exteriors.

Brick veneer

If you want the look of traditional brick, consider brick veneer, which uses a single layer of bricks made from cement or clay to mimic traditional bricks.

Brick veneer is installed over a wooden or steel frame and offers several advantages, including cost-effectiveness, easy installation, varied design options, low maintenance, and energy efficiency.

However, it is less durable, offers a shorter lifespan, and is less water- or fire-proof than traditional brick.

The news and editorial staffs of The Denver Post had no role in this post’s preparation.

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Brick facade alternatives include stone, rainscreens, fiber cement

Stone facades

Rainscreen cladding

Fiber cement siding

Engineered wood

Brick veneer

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