Information about Brick Veneer Siding

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Brick veneer is a great option for those who want a siding that can mimic the elegance of real bricks. Here is a brief overview about this siding.

Apart from enhancing the architectural style and design of the house, a siding serves various other purposes. It can protect the inner structures from adverse weather conditions, like harsh sunlight, strong winds, torrential rains, and frost. Some types of siding have insulation properties too.

While brick, wood, stone, etc., are some of the traditional options, there are numerous new siding materials from which you can select the right one for your home. Here is an information on brick veneer, which can be a perfect choice, if you want a siding material that resembles bricks.

What is Brick Veneer Siding?

Bricks are among the oldest materials used for masonry construction. They are made of fired clay, and are found to be durable and long-lasting. Solid bricks form the structural elements of a construction, as they have to support the load within the walls as well as of the roof.

Usually, solid bricks, that are four to eight inches thick, are used in construction. Brick veneer is a type of thin brick surface, used as a siding. It can be defined as a thin surface material that is applied on solid wall surfaces, so as to attain the natural look of a brick wall. It can be used on both interior and exterior surfaces.

There are various types of brick veneer, that differ in size, thickness, and method of installation. While some types resemble typical red bricks, others have a more rustic look. However, these veneers have a thickness of around 10 to 50 millimeters. The length and breadth are same as that of regular, traditional bricks.

Brick veneers come in different colors, textures, and finishes. The variation in color is due to difference in the chemical composition of the raw materials (shale or clay), and the intensity of firing. The texture difference is due to different surface treatments. Thin ones are available in different shapes, and can be installed on sills and cornices.

Brick veneer siding is very popular, as it is cheaper, when compared to regular, traditional bricks. Apart from that, it is easy to install, and has insulating properties too.

This siding is very widely used on both the interior and exterior walls, pathways, patios, fireplaces, and floors. This material is found to be durable and fire resistant.

Installation Tips

Installation of brick veneer as a siding, depends on its type and purpose. Thin and lightweight types are installed on surfaces in the same way as ceramic tiles are adhered to walls.

Another method is to install a brick veneer wall, covering the exterior face of the frame wall. In this case, such a wall is made on a separate foundation, and a small gap is left between the veneer wall and the existing wall of the building. However, the outer wall will be connected to the frame building at some points.

If you want to install the thin type of brick veneer siding, you have to chip the existing wall surfaces, after cleaning them thoroughly. Remove the flakes from the surfaces, and apply the adhesive mortar, as per the instructions of the manufacturer.

In case of uneven wall surfaces, you have to level them first, by applying a scratch coat. Once the adhesive mortar is applied to a thickness of 10mm, level the mortar, and comb it with a tooth trowel.

Now, press the veneer firmly to the walls, so that the mortar sticks out through the sides. Use a brush to smooth the mortar that juts out through the sides. In case of larger surface areas, brick veneer are cast with concrete to form prefabricated panels that can be installed easily.

Brick veneer cost depends on the type, and the method of installation. While this material is commonly used as a replacement for other siding types, brick veneer siding is also used in new constructions.