Good points raised here, especially about moisture. A couple things to keep in mind:
- Brick veneer has improved a lot, but you're right—moisture management can still be tricky. Proper installation with a good drainage plane and ventilation gap behind the veneer is key. I've seen some newer builds handle this really well, but it definitely depends on the contractor knowing their stuff.
- Real brick does breathe better, true, but it's not foolproof either. I've come across older brick homes with moisture issues because of poor mortar maintenance or inadequate flashing. So even real brick needs attention over time.
- Nostalgia is definitely a factor, but there's also the environmental angle. Real brick tends to have a higher upfront environmental impact (energy-intensive manufacturing), but it lasts forever if maintained properly. Veneer might be lighter on resources initially, but if it needs replacing sooner, that advantage fades.
Personally, I'd lean toward real brick if budget and structural considerations allow—but veneer can work great too, provided you don't cut corners on installation details.
Good insights here, especially on moisture. Honestly, I've seen veneer done beautifully in some high-end homes lately—when the builder really knows their stuff, it's impressive how well it holds up. That said, real brick just has that timeless feel you can't quite replicate. Had a friend whose older brick home needed some mortar work after decades, but once fixed, it was solid again. If you're planning long-term and can swing the extra cost, real brick might be worth it...but veneer can definitely be a solid choice too if installed properly.
Had a similar experience with veneer—looked fantastic at first, but after about 10 years, some sections started loosening up. Could've been installation issues, though. Curious if anyone's seen veneer hold up well beyond 15-20 years without needing repairs?
My folks' place has veneer that's pushing 25 years now...still looks decent, but they've had to patch up a few loose spots here and there. Probably depends a lot on climate and how well it was installed in the first place.
"Probably depends a lot on climate and how well it was installed in the first place."
That's true to an extent, but honestly, even with perfect installation, veneer has its limits. I've seen plenty of cases where moisture eventually finds its way behind the veneer, especially in wetter climates or areas with freeze-thaw cycles. Once water gets trapped, it can cause issues like mold or structural damage that aren't immediately visible.
Real brick walls, while definitely more hassle upfront (and pricier), tend to handle moisture and temperature fluctuations better over the long haul. They breathe better and are less prone to hidden deterioration. Sure, veneer can look great for decades if you're lucky, but if you're thinking long-term—like 30+ years—real brick might save you headaches down the road.
Just something to consider...
