Brick is a popular home exterior finish in Indiana because of its rustic, traditional look. However, bricks, like any other material, deteriorate over time. As it ages, brick experiences problems with:
To avoid such issues, some people update their old brick facade by installing vinyl siding. But is that really a good idea? Can you put vinyl siding over brick without causing future problems?
This guide covers the answer to this common question and discusses the best options available to you as an Indiana homeowner.
Vinyl remains one of the most widely-used siding materials on the market because of its durability, affordability, and aesthetic appeal. This material can be applied to almost any exterior surface as long as it is smooth and level. If your home has a brick exterior, putting vinyl over it might seem logical. But can you put vinyl siding over brick? The answer is complex, but siding experts generally won’t recommend it.
While vinyl siding can be installed on many different surfaces, bricks can be particularly challenging to work with. Brick exteriors are not flat or smooth, which is essential for installing vinyl siding correctly. Vinyl siding isn’t designed to form a watertight barrier without extra precautions, so installing it over an appropriate surface is crucial.
Installing vinyl siding over brick walls can lead to the following:
While we don’t advise installing siding over brick, it is possible. If a homeowner wants vinyl on the outside of their brick home, they will need furring strips to attach a layer of sheathing to the brick. This will provide an even surface for the vinyl to adhere to.
The homeowner would also need to invest in weatherproofing, as vinyl isn’t airtight. Caulking and flashing potential problem areas can reduce water leaks and damage.
For the best results, experts recommend removing the brick and starting with a clean slate to create the flat surface required for vinyl siding. Indiana homeowners can trust DMG Exteriors to recommend and install the most suitable siding material.
Bricks are also used for residential chimneys. They give robust structural support and provide a classic appearance. But over time, chimneys can show signs of wear and tear that hurt the look of your home. A total replacement can be expensive, so cladding a chimney with new siding material is an attractive alternative.
But the same problem arises: Vinyl siding should only be installed on smooth and level surfaces. Installing vinyl siding for your chimney requires layering it with wood furring to serve as the base. The key is to use high-quality fastening systems to secure the furring strips to the brick so they lie flat. Unfortunately, this can be difficult if the bricks are damaged or have gaps. While the job is possible, it requires hiring an experienced contractor to ensure the quality of the work.
This option should only be considered if there is sufficient clearance between the furnace and the chimney’s exterior to prevent fire hazards.
The functionality of the materials you choose for your home’s exterior will impact its durability and value. If you are on the verge of replacing or renovating your Indiana home’s siding, vinyl is worth considering for the following reasons:
Although we generally like vinyl to withstand the Indiana weather, it’s always a good idea to compare your alternatives before making a final decision. After all, choosing the right material impacts your home’s durability and curb appeal.
To help, we’ve compiled a list of the different siding options in Indiana so you can make the most of your investment.
What type of siding is best for your home? Rely on the expertise of the DMG Exteriors team for guidance in making this crucial choice.
For over ten years, we’ve helped countless homeowners in Indiana with home renovation projects. We offer siding, roofing, and other exterior remodeling services. Reach out today to speak to a professional and get a free estimate!
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877-286-7350
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50740 Princess Way Suite 700, Granger, IN 46530
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3104 Grand Trunk Dr Unit 11N, Valparaiso, IN 46383
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