Louisville home inspector explains horizontal cracking

Louisville Inspector Talks About Brick Veneer Siding

Masonry brick adds value to a home because it has a solid, durable reputation, however many brick homes built within the last few decades aren’t actually constructed of brick. Though solid-brick homes are sturdy, they are very expensive include lots of labor. Brick veneer was created for this reason.

Brick Versus Brick Veneer?

Most importantly, it is not a structural element of the home. True “brick homes” are constructed block-upon-block to hold up the house, whereas brick veneer siding is held up by the house itself. It is real masonry, but like any other siding, it is simply a single layer overlaying the original wooden framework of a house. Using small metal ties, this faux “brickwork” is secured to the home, allowing for a small gap of air between the pre-existing exterior wall and the new exterior facade.

How do you tell the difference?

The easiest way to know the difference is to see when the house was built. If it was constructed within the last 40 years, there’s a good chance it’s not solid-brick. Also, look at the masonry pattern. Solid-brick will run lengthwise (horizontal), with occasional rows where the blocks will be installed so you can only see their ends—this irregular crisscross pattern ensures durable structural integrity. Plus, around windows there will be reinforced arches with the blocks, again, facing in towards the house to reinforce the opening. But brick veneer siding will almost always run lengthwise since they don’t perform any structural responsibility.

Need To Know

Brick veneer siding retains some of the benefits of solid-brick. It is durable and fireproof, which can possibly save you some money on your insurance premiums. Also, masonry is a great way to provide natural insulation against the winter cold and summer heat. But unlike solid-brick, brick veneer siding is an even better insulator because it traps air within the gap between the two exterior walls.

Precautions

Although the masonry itself won’t rot, because there is that small gap between the two walls, moisture can get trapped and cause problems. Additionally, weep holes are often created to ventilate this gap. Plus, brick is porous, so when it rains, water can seep between the block and mortar, creating damage to your home’s exterior. Therefore, when installed, a water-resistant surface must be placed over the home’s original framework to prevent moisture build-up and mold from entering your house.

How To Install

Call a masonry contractor when needing to install brick veneer siding and leave it to the experts.

This Southern Indiana and Louisville Home Inspector performs home inspections on both sides of the river.