Brick veneer siding offers a classic look without the hefty price tag or structural requirements of traditional brick. It's an ideal choice for those looking to enhance the appearance of their home with something durable and stylish.
In this guide, we'll dig into the dimensions, costs, and color options for 2024. If you're thinking about a home upgrade or starting fresh, you'll find everything you need right here. Stay with us to get the details that matter most.
Common Thin Brick Dimensions for Brick Veneer Siding
What About Custom Brick Veneer Sizes?
Custom brick veneer dimensions give you the chance to make your project unique. If you're after a specific look or need to meet exact design requirements, custom-sized bricks can make that happen.
You can tweak the thickness, height, and length to fit what you’ve got planned. For those aiming to match an old structure or create something new, custom bricks allow you to take full control. Just make sure to talk with your supplier so everything fits with your vision.
Also, check out some interesting combinations of bricks and stones.
Costs of Brick Veneer Siding
The cost of brick veneer siding can vary based on the size, material, and style of the brick. On average, brick veneer siding costs between $6 to $15 per square foot for materials alone, with installation costs pushing that to around $14 to $28 per square foot, depending on labor rates and the complexity of the project.
For those looking at specific models, RealThinBrick offers a wide variety of options, including:
Antique Collection Georgetown Thin Brick tiles – Limited Edition priced at $29.70 per square foot.
Antique Collection Ravenna Thin Brick tiles (Size: 2-1/4" x 8") for $26.30 per square foot.
Antique Collection Snoqualmie Thin Brick tiles (Size: 4" x 8") for $26.30 per square foot.
These are just a few examples of the many models available, providing a range of styles to suit your project. Keep in mind that custom or limited-edition designs will typically come with a higher price tag, so budget accordingly based on the look you're after.
These models are also perfect for a fireplace.
Brick Veneer Siding Color Options
Brick veneer siding offers a range of natural colors, perfect for creating that classic or modern look.
RealThinBrick provides an array of options featuring earthy tones like red, brown, and neutral shades.
Here’s what you can find:
Magnolia Thin Brick tiles (2-1/4" x 8") offer a deep reddish-brown finish with wood ash pressed into the surface for added texture.
Alki Thin Brick tiles (2-1/4" x 8") also available for $26.30 per square foot, provide lighter, neutral tones for a more contemporary design.
Bulk discounts are available starting at 100 square feet, making these options not only visually appealing but also cost-effective for larger projects. You can find more info here.
Red Hues and Warm Browns
The rich red tones are perfect for traditional exteriors, bringing a timeless and authentic feel to your home. These reds often blend with subtle brown and orange undertones, giving the brick a weathered, yet elegant, appearance.
For those who prefer deeper shades, the brown variations add a grounded, rustic appeal, enhancing the warmth of your space.
Neutral and Light Colors
For a cleaner, more modern look, lighter tones like beige and off-white are available. These shades provide a softer, more neutral backdrop while still maintaining the natural beauty of brick.
Whether you’re creating a modern indoor accent wall or revamping your exterior, these lighter tones bring a sleek yet inviting feel.
Also, check out our comparison of brick and stone veneers.
How to Choose the Right Brick Mortar?
Picking the right mortar for brick veneer siding is crucial for both durability and aesthetics.
Here’s what you need to know to make the right choice.
Mortar Types for Brick Veneer
There are different mortar types based on their strength and flexibility. The most common types used for brick veneer siding are Type N, Type S, and Type O.
Type N: Perfect for general use, it’s moderately strong and flexible, ideal for exterior brick veneer projects that face normal weather conditions.
Type S: Stronger and more resistant to harsh weather, this mortar is best for areas with extreme climates or high moisture exposure.
Type O: This is the softest mortar, good for indoor use or repairs on older brick walls.
Mortar Color Considerations
The color of the mortar can drastically change the appearance of your brick veneer. A gray mortar gives a classic, neutral look, while white mortar can make the brick color pop more. Colored mortar options exist too, allowing you to match or contrast the brick for a custom look.
How Much Mortar Do You Need?
On average, you’ll need about 7-8 cubic feet of mortar per 100 square feet of brick veneer. The quantity may vary depending on the size of the brick and the depth of the mortar joints.
Tips for Mixing Mortar
Go Small: Always start with smaller batches. Big mixes dry out fast and become useless.
Add Water Slowly: Don’t dump all the water in at once. Add it bit by bit until it feels just right.
Check the Texture: The mix should be smooth and firm, not runny or too dry.
Keep it Fresh: If the mortar’s been sitting for a while, ditch it. Fresh is always stronger.
Stick to the Ratio: Follow the instructions on the bag for the perfect mix.
Brick Veneer Siding Installation: What You Need to Know
Installing brick veneer siding isn’t as complicated as it seems, but there are some key things to get right to make sure the job holds up over time.
Prepare the Surface
Before you even start, make sure the surface you’re attaching the brick veneer to is clean, dry, and structurally sound. You can’t throw brick onto a bad foundation.
Use the Right Tools
You’ll need a notched trowel, mortar mix, a level, and a tile saw if you’re cutting pieces. Having the right tools will make the installation smoother.
Installing the Bricks
Apply Mortar: Use the notched trowel to spread mortar evenly on the back of each brick veneer.
Place and Press: Stick the brick to the wall and press it firmly, leaving space for mortar joints.
Check Alignment: Use a level often to keep things straight.
Grouting and Sealing
Once the bricks are all in place, fill the gaps with grout and let everything set. Seal the bricks afterward to protect them from moisture and stains, especially if you’re working on an outdoor project.
Taking the time to prep and install correctly will save you headaches later on.
Maintenance Tips for Brick Veneer Siding
Keeping your brick veneer siding looking fresh and lasting long is all about regular maintenance.
Cleaning: Use a soft brush and mild detergent to clean off dirt and grime. For tougher spots, a vinegar and water mix works well.
Sealing: Apply a sealant every few years to protect against moisture and stains, especially in harsh weather conditions.
Inspect From Time to Time: Check for cracks in the mortar or bricks, and repair them quickly to avoid bigger problems down the line.
Energy Efficiency with Brick Veneer
Brick veneer can improve your home’s energy efficiency. It helps manage heat and cold, acting as an additional layer that reduces the impact of outdoor temperatures. In summer, it keeps heat out. In winter, it traps warmth inside.
Heat Retention
Bricks store heat during the day and release it slowly at night, making indoor temperatures more stable.
Ventilation and Moisture Control
When properly installed, brick veneer allows for ventilation and moisture control, improving overall energy efficiency.
FAQs
How Long does brick veneer siding last?
Brick veneer siding can last up to 50 years or more with proper maintenance, like sealing and cleaning.
Can brick veneer be installed on any surface?
Is brick veneer fire-resistant?
Can I paint brick veneer?
Does brick veneer provide sound insulation?
The Bottom Line
Brick veneer siding offers a great mix of style, durability, and energy efficiency. With a variety of natural colors and easy installation, it suits both modern and traditional designs.
Proper maintenance ensures it lasts for decades with minimal effort. Choosing the right mortar, knowing how to install it correctly, and keeping up with basic care will make your project successful.