What is the difference between full brick and brick veneer? Full brick construction uses brick as a load-bearing structural element and is found in many older New Orleans buildings. Brick veneer is a single layer of brick applied over a framed structure, used purely as cladding. Most residential brick siding projects today use veneer because it delivers the same appearance and most of the same performance benefits without requiring structural reconstruction. Both are durable, long-lasting options; the right choice depends on your structure and goals.
How often does brick siding need maintenance? Mortar inspection and repointing every 20 to 25 years is the primary maintenance task. You may want to clean the face of the brick with a low-pressure wash occasionally, but that is cosmetic, not structural. There is no painting, no caulking cycle, no board replacement. Compared to any other siding product, the maintenance burden is minimal.
Can brick veneer handle Louisiana flooding? Better than most materials. Brick itself does not absorb water and does not degrade when submerged. After a flood event, the brick face is cleaned and it’s structurally unaffected. The critical point is proper drainage cavity installation during the original job. A correctly detailed brick veneer system has a drainage plane that lets water exit at the weep holes rather than sitting against the framing.
Is brick siding compatible with historic district guidelines in New Orleans? Often yes. Many historic districts in New Orleans were built in brick, and the Vieux Carré Commission and Historic District Landmarks Commission generally look favorably on brick as an appropriate material. The specifics depend on your district and the proposed installation. We can discuss what your district requires before the project begins.
Does brick veneer add significant weight to a structure? Yes. A single wythe of brick veneer adds roughly 35 to 45 pounds per square foot, which is substantially more than fiber cement or vinyl. Older homes in particular need a foundation and framing assessment before brick veneer is specified. We include this evaluation as part of the estimate process, and we will tell you directly if a structure is not a good candidate.
How long does a brick siding installation take? A standard single-story home typically takes 1 to 3 weeks depending on the size and complexity of the project. Brick work is slower than panel or plank siding because each course has to be laid individually and mortar has cure time built into the schedule. We give you a project-specific timeline before work begins.
