Cost to Replace Vinyl Siding with Brick: Factors, Comparisons & Savings
Thinking about upgrading your home’s exterior from vinyl siding to brick? This guide breaks down costs, benefits, and what to expect—so you can budget confidently and make a smart investment.
1. Quick Cost Snapshot
| Material | Upfront Cost (per sq. ft.) | Lifespan | Maintenance |
|---|---|---|---|
| Vinyl Siding | $6–$12 | 20–40 years | Low, periodic cleaning |
| Brick Veneer | $12–$25 | 75–100+ years | Very low, occasional tuckpointing |
Rule of Thumb: Brick costs roughly 2x or more than vinyl upfront—but can save you money over decades through durability and energy efficiency.
2. Main Factors Affecting the Cost Difference
Material Costs
- Vinyl siding: Cheaper due to mass production and lightweight materials
- Brick: Higher due to material weight, production process, and transport costs
What This Means for You: Expect material costs alone to be $8,000–$20,000 higher for a standard home if choosing brick over vinyl.
Labor Costs
- Vinyl installation is straightforward and fast
- Brick installation requires skilled masons, mortar work, and more time
Labor Estimate: $3–$8 per sq. ft. for vinyl vs. $8–$15 per sq. ft. for brick.
Project Complexity
- Intricate brick patterns, custom designs, or difficult site access can increase costs
- Homes needing structural reinforcement for brick weight will have added expenses
3. Key Considerations Before Budgeting
- Square Footage – Measure exterior wall space for accurate material and labor estimates.
- Structural Requirements – Older homes may need reinforcement for brick’s weight.
- Permit Costs – Vary by location; budget $200–$1,000.
- Removal & Disposal – Removing vinyl and disposing of debris can cost $1,000–$3,000.
4. Durability & Maintenance Comparison
Vinyl Siding
- Lifespan: 20–40 years
- Susceptible to fading, warping, and storm damage
- Easy and affordable to repair
Brick
- Lifespan: 75–100+ years
- Resistant to fading, insects, and rot
- May need mortar repointing every 25–30 years
Long-Term Outlook: Over 50 years, brick can cost less overall than replacing vinyl once or twice.
5. Potential Long-Term Savings with Brick
- Energy Efficiency: Brick’s thermal mass reduces heating/cooling needs—possible savings of 5–15% on energy bills.
- Property Value Boost: Brick homes often appraise 10–15% higher than vinyl-sided homes.
- Maintenance Savings: Less frequent repairs and replacements.
Bottom Line
Replacing vinyl siding with brick is a major upfront investment but offers long-term durability, lower maintenance, and higher resale value. If you plan to stay in your home for decades, brick often wins on lifetime cost-effectiveness.
Quick FAQ
Q: Why is brick so much more expensive upfront?
A: Higher material costs, labor-intensive installation, and sometimes structural reinforcement needs.
Q: Can I brick over vinyl siding?
A: No—vinyl must be removed, and the structure may need reinforcement first.
Q: Is brick worth it for resale value?
A: In most markets, yes—brick’s curb appeal and longevity can boost property value significantly.