What are the pros and cons of brick and stone exterior facing? Part II

In this multi-part segment of Ask MJ, we answer your questions on refurbishing your homes exterior using some of the latest brick, rock or masonry facings.  What are the advantages, disadvantages, costs and installation challenges? Part II, Installation Challenges

In an earlier era of building construction, stone or brick materials often provided the primary support for exterior walls.  In modern construction, however, homes are framed in wood while brick or stone facades are attached to the exterior for decorative and weather protection purposes rather than for structural support.

Brick veneers were traditionally attached to wood frame houses, but can be applied over other materials as well. Veneers may be either anchored or adhered. Brick veneer should be 3 to 5 inches thick of an appropriate grade, generally SW brick. Thin brick veneer is between ½ and 1 inch thick and comes in many sizes, colors and textures. Properly constructed, brick veneers add protection to both the exterior and interior of the building. They are fire and moisture resistant and provide thermal and acoustical insulation.

Anchored brick is attached with fasteners to the existing exterior of a house. This creates an air space between the old siding and the veneer that also serves as a drainage channel for moisture. Adhered brick veneer attaches to an existing wall with lath and plaster; these materials resist moisture penetration.

Stone veneers provide decorative and protective attributes to a building’s exterior, as brick does. Stone is also fire-resistant, with thermal and acoustical insulation properties. Stone veneers may be natural or manufactured.

Natural stone veneers are three to five inches thick and can weigh up to 45 to 50 pounds per square foot, requiring a brick support ledge to distribute the weight. Each course of stone supports the next. Additional structural reinforcement may also be required. Masonry ties connect the stone to the wall. Several types of natural stone are suitable for exterior veneers including limestone, sandstone, marble, slate and granite.

In the next installment of this segment, we answer your questions about installation challenges and maintenance challenges and costs

Pace Realty’s Maintenance Team can help you with your yard and other home maintenance & renovation jobs. Call 250-562-6671 or email us at maintenance@pacerealty.ca today for a free, no-hassle quote.

Mary-Jean (MJ) Jacobson loves to talk real estate! She is passionate about helping clients increase the value of the assets. She is a Professional Property Manager, Strata Manager, Real Estate Sales Agent and Licensed Managing Broker. She writes a series of articles blogs and whitepapers about the real estate and property management industry at ASK MJ