"Solid brick can feel colder in winter if it's not insulated properly, and retrofitting insulation later can be tricky and expensive."
Yeah, totally agree with this. I've worked on a couple of older solid brick homes, and retrofitting insulation was always a headache—especially when you're trying to preserve the original interior finishes. Veneer setups definitely make life easier when it comes to insulation and wiring. Another thing worth mentioning is moisture management. Solid brick walls can sometimes wick moisture inward if they're not properly maintained or sealed, leading to dampness or mold issues down the line. Brick veneer with a proper cavity and vapor barrier setup tends to handle moisture better, at least from my experience.
Still, gotta admit there's something appealing about the solid feel and character of real brick walls... but practically speaking, veneer usually wins out for me these days.
Yeah, veneer definitely has practical advantages, but honestly I've seen moisture issues pop up there too if the flashing or drainage isn't done right. Solid brick can be solid (no pun intended...) if it's maintained properly—just gotta stay on top of it.
I've had similar experiences—proper flashing and drainage is key. One trick I've learned is to periodically inspect the weep holes and make sure they're clear. Have you found any particular maintenance routine helpful for solid brick?
"Have you found any particular maintenance routine helpful for solid brick?"
One approach I've found particularly effective is applying a breathable, silane-based sealer every few years. It helps repel moisture without trapping it inside the brick, maintaining its natural breathability. Also, gently cleaning the surface annually with a soft brush and mild detergent prevents dirt buildup that could lead to moisture retention or staining. Solid brick walls indeed require extra care, but their timeless elegance and durability make the effort worthwhile...
Good points, sealing definitely helps. A few things I'd add from experience:
- Is the silane-based sealer pricey? I've mainly stuck to budget-friendly silicone sealers—wonder if I'm missing out...
- Also, checking mortar joints regularly saves headaches later. Learned that the hard way, unfortunately.
