Key Points
- You can install siding over brick, but it requires adding furring strips, sheathing, and a moisture barrier to create a smooth, weatherproof surface before attaching siding panels.
- The best siding materials for brick homes include vinyl, fiber cement, engineered wood, metal, and traditional wood, each offering unique benefits for durability, maintenance, and curb appeal.
- Professional installation is essential to prevent moisture issues, ensure proper alignment, and protect your home’s structural integrity and energy efficiency.
Brick by Brick: Can You Really Cover It Up?
Ever looked at your old brick exterior and wondered if new siding could give it a fresh, modern look?
Or maybe you’ve thought about skipping the brick removal and just installing siding right over it?
In this post, you’ll learn whether siding can go over brick, what the process involves, and which siding materials work best.
By the end, you’ll know how to achieve the look you want while keeping your home protected and structurally sound.
If you’re ready to explore your siding installation options, reach out to Peak Home Exteriors today by calling or filling out our contact form.
We’d love to help you create a home exterior you’ll be proud of.
Can You Put Siding Over Brick?
Yes, you can install siding over brick, but it’s complex, time-intensive, and best left to a professional install team.
Installing siding over brick requires careful preparation and precision to avoid moisture issues or structural problems later:
- A smooth surface must be created with furring strips and sheathing before siding installation can begin.
- A moisture barrier, such as house wrap or a weather-resistant membrane, must be installed between the brick and the new siding.
- Because of the additional labor costs and materials, this project can take two to three times longer than standard siding installation.
When installed properly by an experienced contractor, new siding can transform a brick home into a clean, energy-efficient space with long-lasting curb appeal.
What’s Involved in Installing Siding Over Brick
1. Preparing the Brick Surface
The first step is to make sure the existing brick walls are in good condition.
Clean the brick thoroughly to remove dirt, efflorescence, or loose mortar.
Cracks or damaged bricks must be repaired before installing siding over brick to maintain structural integrity.
This ensures that the underlying structure supports the new siding safely and evenly.
2. Installing Furring Strips and Sheathing
Next, professionals attach furring strips vertically, spaced about 12 to 16 inches apart, to create a level surface.
These furring strips help provide a secure foundation for attaching siding panels.
Plywood or OSB sheathing is installed over the strips to create a stable, nail-ready base.
Flashing and caulk are applied around openings to seal gaps and prevent water from seeping in.
3. Applying a Moisture Barrier
A moisture barrier is placed over the sheathing to form a watertight barrier that protects against rot, mold growth, and insulation damage.
Proper installation at this stage is key to maintaining energy efficiency and preventing costly repairs later.
4. Attaching the Siding
Finally, siding panels are secured to the sheathing using weatherproof nails or screws.
The siding is never attached directly to the brick surface.
Because this type of project requires extra preparation and alignment, it can take several days longer than standard siding installation, depending on the home size and chosen materials.
Best Types of Siding to Install Over Brick
Vinyl Siding (CertainTeed)
Vinyl siding is one of the most popular options for homeowners looking for a cost-effective, low-maintenance upgrade.
It’s lightweight, lasts 20 to 30 years, and offers a variety of colors and textures.
However, it must be installed on a smooth surface to prevent visible unevenness.
Fiber Cement Siding (James Hardie)
Fiber cement siding is known for its strength and durability.
It resists fire, insects, and rot, making it ideal for Michigan’s harsh weather conditions, from snowy Ann Arbor winters to humid summer storms rolling off the Huron River.
Since fiber cement is heavier than vinyl, professional installation is required to ensure proper fastening and alignment.
Engineered Wood (LP SmartSide)
LP SmartSide siding combines the aesthetic appeal of real wood with modern technology for added moisture resistance.
It enhances insulation value and gives a brick home the look of natural craftsmanship while maintaining lower maintenance needs.
Metal Siding
Metal siding is a durable material that holds up well against temperature extremes and moisture.
It reflects heat, resists pests, and requires very little upkeep.
Some homeowners opt for it on contemporary or industrial-style homes for its sleek finish.
Wood Siding
Traditional wood siding can be installed over brick, but it needs a strong moisture barrier to prevent damage.
Regular cleaning, sealing, and refinishing are necessary to protect against mold growth and water absorption.
Pros and Cons of Installing Siding Over Brick
Pros
- Boosts curb appeal and gives your home’s appearance a clean, updated look.
- Can make a home more energy efficient when insulation and vapor barriers are added.
- Provides a way to refresh the exterior without removing the brick altogether.
Cons
- More labor intensive and costly compared to standard siding projects.
- Potential for moisture issues if the barrier is not installed properly.
- Risk of trapping air or water between both the brick and siding layers.
- May not be approved by certain homeowner associations or local building codes.
When to Avoid Installing Siding Over Brick
Avoid installing siding over brick if the wall shows major cracks or moisture damage.
These conditions can weaken the underlying brick walls and cause long-term structural problems.
It’s also best to reconsider this approach in historic homes, where covering the brick could reduce property value.
In some cases, repairing or insulating the brick may offer better energy savings and durability than installing siding.
Alternatives to Covering Brick with Siding
Paint or Whitewash the Brick
Painting or whitewashing your brick exterior offers a simpler, more budget-friendly way to modernize your home’s appearance.
It’s easier to maintain, requires less labor, and keeps the brick texture visible while still offering a fresh look.
Remove the Brick Before Installing Siding
Some homeowners opt to remove the existing brick altogether before installing vinyl siding or fiber cement siding.
Though it requires a higher upfront cost, this option ensures a smoother installation process and allows for added insulation, resulting in better long-term performance.
Why Professional Installation Matters
Installing siding over brick depends on precision, planning, and experience.
A professional installation team ensures the correct placement of furring strips, moisture barriers, and siding alignment.
This helps avoid installation mistakes that can lead to water leaks, mold growth, or code violations.
Working with an experienced contractor like Peak Home Exteriors also guarantees coverage under our craftsmanship warranty and the use of durable materials that last for years.
FAQs About Installing Siding Over Brick
Does adding siding over brick affect ventilation or cause trapped moisture?
Yes. If not designed properly, siding over brick can trap moisture and reduce the brick’s ability to “breathe,” which can lead to mold, rot, or damage over time. To avoid this, contractors include a ventilated air gap, flashing, and a proper moisture barrier between the brick and siding layers.
Can you add insulation behind siding when covering brick?
Yes. In many cases you can install rigid foam insulation (or other insulation) between the furring strips before siding goes on. This extra layer can help improve energy efficiency by reducing heat loss through the originally uninsulated brick wall.
Will covering brick with siding raise issues with local building codes or permits?
It might. Some municipalities or homeowner associations require approval for changing exterior materials, especially in historic districts or areas with architectural guidelines. Always check local codes and get permits before installing siding over a brick exterior.
Ready to Transform Your Brick Exterior? Peak Home Exteriors Has You Covered
Now you know how installing siding over brick can completely change your home’s exterior while protecting it from moisture and improving insulation.
With the right siding material and professional installation, your brick home can look brand new for decades.
At Peak Home Exteriors, our experienced siding contractors handle every step of the siding installation process, from prep to final cleanup, ensuring your project is done right the first time.
Call today or fill out our contact form to start designing a home exterior that stands out for all the right reasons.
