Choosing the right type of siding for your house is a big decision, and should not be made lightly. Cost and curb appeal are not the only issues at play---the siding you choose will affect how much maintenance you need to perform, how well your home withstands the elements and how much your house is worth when you decide to resell it. Inexpensive vinyl siding is the most common choice, but upgrading to brick siding may be worth the expense.
brick house
Expense
According to a 2008 article on CalFinder.com, a nationwide clearinghouse for certified contractors, vinyl siding can be expected to run $2 to $3 per square foot, installed. Real brick costs two to four times as much, averaging $6 to $12 per square foot.
Appearance
Brick siding is the woolen pea coat of the siding world, mixing classic, understated elegance with durable utilitarianism. It looks appropriate in almost every setting, and will probably outlast its owner. Vinyl siding is more like a good spring jacket, available in a wide array of colors and styles, and inexpensive enough to replace as styles and preferences change.
Durability
Vinyl siding's durability comes from its ability to bounce-back after impact, and the fact that vermin find it unappetizing. Brick is tougher, but more brittle. Brick stand up better to windstorms and wildfires, but may be more likely to show dings from hard impact.
Maintenance
Vinyl siding is made to be virtually maintenance-free. Surface dirt can be rinsed off with a garden hose, or scrubbed off with a soft brush or sponge. Brick should be inspected for cracks or missing mortar annually, but it would be unusual to find these problems within the first 25 years. Brick can be pressure washed, and cracks can be filled with concrete caulk or mortar.
Life Expectancy
Vinyl siding is often offered with a lifetime warranty. In reality, vinyl is designed to last for 40 to 50 years, and the color will usually fade over time. Brick siding can last for centuries if properly maintained.
