"Had a project where we used copper flashing—expensive stuff—but moisture still got trapped because the builder overlooked proper weep holes...lesson learned the hard way."
Man, that's rough...but honestly, thanks for sharing this. I'm in the middle of my first custom build and hearing experiences like yours helps a ton. It's crazy how even the best materials won't save you if the details aren't right. Definitely making a mental note to double-check those weep holes now. Hang in there—sounds like you're wiser for next time at least!
Had a similar issue on a renovation last year—client insisted on real brick walls, and we went all out with premium materials. But the mason skipped proper drainage detailing, and moisture buildup became a nightmare. Ended up costing way more to fix than if we'd just gone simpler from the start. Lesson learned: good materials mean nothing without careful installation and attention to detail.
Totally agree—seen this happen way too often. People get caught up in premium materials and forget the basics like drainage or vapor barriers. Had a project a few years back where the client insisted on reclaimed brick for authenticity. Looked amazing, but man, those bricks were porous! We had to redo the flashing and add extra waterproofing layers after the fact. Real brick can be great, but only if you nail the details from day one...otherwise, veneer might save you headaches down the road.
I get the appeal of real brick, but honestly, from an interior design perspective, veneer can give you almost the exact same look without the drama. I've worked on a couple of loft conversions where clients insisted on exposed brick walls. Step one: you pick your bricks (and think you're done). Step two: realize they're uneven and porous. Step three: scramble to seal everything properly. If you're not ready for that hassle, veneer is your friend—trust me, your sanity will thank you later...
I get your point about veneer being easier, but honestly, real brick isn't always that dramatic. Sure, sealing can be a pain initially, but once it's done properly, maintenance is minimal. Plus, there's something about the texture and feel you just can't replicate with veneer...
