Solid Brick vs Brick Veneer : What are their Differences?

One of the most attractive and popular ways of constructing a home is through brick masonry construction. It provides several advantages such as durability, strength, weather and fire resistance, and low maintenance that can benefit you in the long run.

These are probably some of the reasons why masonry construction in Tulsa, OK is sought after.

Solid Brick vs Brick Veneer : What are their Differences?

There are two types of brick masonry that are always being compared as to which is better. These are called solid brick and brick veneer masonry. Solid brick or also called solid masonry consists of two layers of brick walls.

Solid Brick vs Brick Veneer : What are their Differences?

While brick veneer, on the other hand, has only one layer of brick walls. Brick veneer is known to be an overlay or facing of bricks.

Solid Brick vs Brick Veneer

If you are considering constructing your home using brick masonry, and you’re debating over which masonry type will suit your needs and home structure, we’ve prepared some comparisons you can base upon in making your decision.

1) Costs

Solid Brick

When it comes to building materials, solid brick is more on the expensive side than brick veneer.

Brick Veneer

On the other hand, brick veneer is way more cost-effective than solid brick which makes it a better option for those on a tight budget.

2) Energy Efficiency

Solid Brick

Solid brick is not energy efficient because of its built-in thermal characteristics.

Brick Veneer

Brick veneer though is more energy efficient because of the room between the exterior veneer and the backup wall which separate the insulation material.

3) Header Brick

Solid Brick

Header bricks are identified as a row of shorter bricks on the facing of the wall, which is used in most solid masonry construction.

Brick Veneer

On the contrary, there are no header brick patterns for brick veneers.

4) Installation

Solid Brick

Solid Brick should be installed while the house is being built because it is a crucial component of a home’s structural stability. For a safe and definite construction, you will need the expert masonry services of a mason in Tulsa, OK.

Brick Veneer

Brick veneer, on the other hand, can be attached at any point. The installation process will be much faster because it only needs one wythe to get the look and feel of real brick.

5) Water Drainage

Since brick is not a waterproof material, both types of brick masonry will depend on the bond between the mortar and masonry units to limit water perforation.

Solid Brick

This type of brick masonry relies on its large mass to absorb water that enters from outside.

Brick Veneer

If this type of brick masonry is not installed properly, it will be prone to water damage.

6) Insulation

Solid Brick

Solid brick is not the best option if you’re looking for the best insulation material for your house. This is because it is not a light and soft material that promotes airflow.

Brick Veneer

Brick veneer is the better option for insulation since insulation can be added in the space between the brick and the exterior walls when the brick veneer is installed.

7) Structural

Solid Brick

Solid brick walls are structural and are usually installed while the building is being constructed.

Brick Veneer

Brick veneer walls are not structural as they are simply attached to the structural backup walls.

8) Benefits

Solid Brick

  • Life Span: Solid brick is durable and fireproof. It can also holdout against calamities such as heavy winds and earthquakes.
  • Resilience: This type of construction doesn’t need wood, so you won’t have to fret over decay and termites.
  • Low-Maintenance: Since it is long-lasting and has excellent color retention, solid brick is low-maintenance.

Brick Veneer

  • Installation: It is easier to install because it can be inserted at any point even after your house construction is completed.
  • Reasonable Price: Brick veneer is three times cheaper than solid brick.

Choosing between solid brick and brick veneer depends on your personal preferences as well as your budget.

Since both have their benefits and drawbacks you must think carefully and choose wisely as it affects your home’s overall structure and durability. Your home will serve as your roof and shield from the outside world.

When you decide to go for brick veneer, make sure to get the best brick veneer supplier for your project. But if you decide to go with solid brick, you should hire a top-notch contractor that offers superb masonry services in Tulsa, OK.

Choose a contractor that has experience in the field and has handled many successful projects. No matter what type you choose between the two, always consider how it will affect your home’s structure.

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"Structural Engineer" with over 5 years of experience in estimation, structural design, and surveying. I am passionate about using his skills to create safe and sustainable structures. I am also a keen writer, and I enjoy sharing my knowledge and experiences with others.