Transforming your home’s exterior by replacing siding with brick can dramatically enhance curb appeal, increase property value, and provide long-lasting durability. For Metairie homeowners considering this significant upgrade, understanding the costs, benefits, and installation processes is essential for making an informed decision.
Understanding How Much Does it Cost to Replace Siding with Brick |
The cost to replace siding with brick in Metairie varies significantly based on several factors. Brick siding installation averages $9 to $28 per square foot, with most homeowners paying around $15 per square foot for materials and installation. For a typical 1,600-square-foot home, you can expect to spend approximately $24,000 for brick siding replacement.
However, costs can range more broadly depending on your specific project requirements. The total cost for brick siding projects typically falls between $22,500 and $70,000, with an average of $26,000 for a 2,000-square-foot home. These figures include both materials and professional installation.
Breaking Down Brick Siding Costs by Home Size
The size of your Metairie home directly impacts the total cost of replacing siding with brick. Here’s what you can expect based on different home sizes:
Home Size Pricing Guide:
- 1,500 square feet: $13,500 to $75,000
- 2,000 square feet: $18,000 to $100,000
- 2,500 square feet: $22,500 to $125,000
- 3,000 square feet: $27,000 to $150,000
For smaller homes or partial installations, you might spend as little as $5 per square foot if you’re working with existing brick that can be repaired rather than completely replaced.
Types of Brick Siding and Their Costs
When considering replacing your siding with brick, you have several options that vary significantly in price and installation complexity.
Solid Brick Siding
Traditional solid brick siding costs $9 to $20 per square foot for materials and installation. This option provides the most authentic brick appearance and exceptional durability, lasting 100+ years. However, solid brick requires substantial structural support and professional masonry work, making it the most expensive option.
Brick Veneer Options
Brick veneer offers the appearance of solid brick at a more affordable price point:
- Thin brick veneer strips: $3 to $10 per square foot
- Faux brick veneer: $4 to $10 per square foot
- Faux brick panel siding: $6 to $11 per square foot
- Face brick siding: $4 to $8 per square foot
Brick veneer typically costs $5 to $12 per square foot and provides excellent durability, lasting 70 to 100 years while offering better insulation than real brick.
Can You Put Siding Over Brick or Replace Siding with Brick?
Many Metairie homeowners wonder about their options for combining siding and brick materials. The answer depends on your specific goals and existing home structure.
Can You Put Siding Over Brick?
Yes, you can install siding over existing brick, but it’s not typically recommended. The process requires significant preparation including furring strips and sheathing to create a smooth surface for proper siding installation. This adds considerable cost and complexity to the project, often making it more expensive than removing the brick entirely.
Can You Replace Siding with Brick?
Absolutely, you can replace vinyl siding with brick. The process involves removing existing siding, preparing the surface, and installing your chosen brick material. Most brick siding installations require removing existing siding materials to ensure proper adhesion and structural integrity.
Can You Install Siding Over Brick?
While it is possible to install new siding over existing brick walls, this approach requires engineering analysis and specialized installation techniques. The process involves creating proper air spaces, drainage cavities, and water-resistant barriers to prevent moisture issues.
Additional Costs and Considerations
Beyond the basic materials and installation, several additional factors can impact your total project cost:
Labor Costs
Professional installation labor ranges from $3 to $20 per square foot, depending on the complexity of your project and local labor rates in Metairie. Bricklayers may charge $40 to $100 per hour for smaller projects or specialized work.
Material Costs
Additional supplies including mortar cost approximately $0.50 per square foot. You may also need water-resistant sealants, wire lath, cement backer board, and specialty tools, all contributing to the overall project cost.
Permits and Inspections
Most siding replacement projects in Louisiana require building permits. Permit costs typically range from $50 to $500, depending on your local municipality and project scope. In Metairie and surrounding Jefferson Parish areas, replacement of more than 100 square feet of exterior wall sheathing requires permits.
Removal and Disposal
If you’re replacing existing siding, removal and disposal costs add to your total project expense. This includes labor for careful removal and fees for proper material disposal.
Benefits of Replacing Siding with Brick
Investing in brick siding replacement offers numerous long-term advantages for Metairie homeowners:
Durability and Longevity
Brick siding can last 100+ years with minimal maintenance, far exceeding the 20-40 year lifespan of vinyl siding. This exceptional longevity makes brick an excellent long-term investment despite higher upfront costs.
Energy Efficiency
Brick provides superior insulation properties compared to many siding materials, helping reduce heating and cooling costs in Louisiana’s hot, humid climate. The thermal mass of brick absorbs heat during the day and releases it slowly at night, improving your home’s energy efficiency.
Low Maintenance Requirements
Once installed, brick siding requires minimal ongoing maintenance. Unlike vinyl or wood siding that may need regular painting or replacement, brick maintains its appearance with occasional cleaning and minor mortar maintenance.
Increased Property Value
Brick siding significantly increases curb appeal and property value. In Metairie’s competitive real estate market, where median home prices average $276,000, brick siding can provide substantial return on investment when you decide to sell.
Installation Process Overview
Understanding the installation process helps homeowners prepare for their brick siding replacement project:
Step 1: Existing Siding Removal
Professional contractors carefully remove existing siding materials, inspecting underlying surfaces for damage or moisture issues that need addressing before proceeding.
Step 2: Surface Preparation
Installation of weather-resistant barriers and proper flashing creates essential moisture protection. This step is crucial in Louisiana’s humid climate to prevent long-term water damage.
Step 3: Brick Installation
Depending on your chosen material, installation involves either traditional masonry techniques for solid brick or specialized mounting systems for veneer products. Professional installation ensures proper alignment, spacing, and structural integrity.
Step 4: Finishing Work
Final steps include applying mortar between bricks, tooling joints for professional appearance, and thorough cleanup to complete your home’s transformation.
Working with Professionals in Metairie
Given the complexity and specialized skills required for brick siding installation, professional installation is strongly recommended. Licensed contractors familiar with Louisiana building codes and local climate conditions ensure your project meets all requirements and performs optimally over time.
When selecting contractors, verify their licensing, insurance, and experience with brick installations in the Metairie area. Louisiana requires contractors for work exceeding $7,500 to be properly licensed, ensuring quality workmanship and code compliance.
Making Your Decision
Replacing siding with brick represents a significant investment that can transform your Metairie home’s appearance and performance. While initial costs are higher than other siding options, the combination of exceptional durability, energy efficiency, and property value enhancement makes brick an attractive long-term investment.
Consider your budget, home style, and long-term plans when deciding between solid brick and veneer options. Brick veneer provides similar appearance benefits at lower costs, while solid brick offers maximum durability and authenticity for homeowners prioritizing longevity.
Whether you’re looking to change vinyl siding to brick for enhanced curb appeal or exploring options to install brick over existing siding, consulting with experienced local contractors ensures you make the best choice for your specific situation and budget in Metairie’s unique climate and market conditions.
