When it comes to deciding between brick or render for your home, it’s not always an easy choice. Both materials have their own unique advantages and drawbacks, making it hard to determine which one is best suited to your needs.
Bricks offer a traditional, timeless look, while render provides a modern, smooth finish that can instantly refresh the appearance of any property.
Whether you’re building a new home, adding an extension, or simply looking to update your façade, choosing between brick and render can feel like a tough decision. Both materials are functional, serving to protect your home from the elements. They also offer impressive fire resistance, sound insulation, and pest protection. However, when it comes to aesthetics, cost, and long-term maintenance, the two materials differ greatly.
To make your decision a little easier, let’s take a closer look at the pros and cons of both materials.
Contact the teamUsing bricks for your facade
Bricks are one of the oldest building materials known to humanity, with a history that spans back to nearly 7,000 BC. There are several different types of bricks, each serving a specific purpose.
From common burnt clay bricks used for external walls to sand-lime bricks used for hidden internal walls, and even engineering bricks designed for structural integrity, there is a brick for almost every need.
The pros
⦿ Versatility: Modern bricks come in a wide range of colors, textures, and finishes, allowing for significant creative flexibility. Whether you’re after the classic look of red brick or a more modern, sleek design with glazed finishes, there’s a brick to suit your aesthetic preferences. For a more contemporary look, you can even experiment with bold patterns and textures.
⦿ Low maintenance: One of the major benefits of bricks is their low-maintenance nature. Bricks don’t need to be painted or sealed to retain their durability and weather resistance. A well-constructed brick wall can last for decades without much upkeep.
⦿ Secure investment: Though they may have a higher upfront cost, bricks are a solid investment. Their lasting durability and timeless appeal ensure that they hold their value well over time. Bricks require little maintenance, which can save you money in the long run, and they are energy efficient, further contributing to their value.
⦿ Eco-friendly: Bricks are made from natural materials like clay and other minerals. They have a long life and are highly recyclable. In fact, clay bricks are often reclaimed from demolished buildings and reused in new constructions, making them a sustainable choice.
⦿ Timeless appeal: The aesthetic value of bricks has endured for centuries. Their classic look means that they are less likely to go out of style, making them a safe choice if you want to avoid the risk of your home looking outdated in the future.
Cons of using bricks
⦿ Spalling: Though bricks are generally durable, they can occasionally suffer from a condition called spalling, which happens when moisture gets into the bricks, freezes, and causes cracks. This can lead to crumbling and deterioration. The good news is that spalling can be prevented with proper drainage and high-quality sealants, and it’s easy to repair if it does occur.
⦿ Cost: Bricks can be more expensive than other materials, such as concrete blocks used in rendering. While bricks are widely available and competitive in price, building with them requires more materials and labor, which can increase the cost of construction.
⦿ Insulation: While bricks do provide some level of insulation, they don’t offer the same thermal resistance as rendered walls. Masonry walls without additional insulation may not be as energy-efficient as you’d like.
⦿ Matching bricks: Finding an exact match for an existing brick can be challenging, especially when it comes to repairs or extensions. However, this is becoming less of an issue as modern manufacturers can more easily match bricks or offer solutions that blend seamlessly.
Bricks require little maintenance, which can save you money in the long run, and they are energy efficient, further contributing to their value
Using render for your facade
Render involves applying a layer of cement over brick or concrete walls, offering a smooth, modern finish that many homeowners find appealing.
It’s a popular choice for a wide range of property types, from Victorian terraces to modern villas, especially in regions like Spain and Greece, where the look of a rendered home is iconic.
Pros of using render
⦿ Versatility: Render offers endless options in terms of color and texture. You can achieve a smooth, contemporary finish or a more textured, rustic look. Whether you want a minimalist white façade or a bold colored exterior, render provides the flexibility to suit your desired aesthetic.
⦿ Prevents damp: One of the key advantages of render is its ability to protect against penetrating damp. This is especially useful for older properties with solid walls, where moisture can cause damage such as rotting skirting boards and mold. However, it’s crucial to apply render correctly, as applying it over already damp walls can exacerbate the problem.
⦿ Improves thermal protection: Render can help to improve your home’s insulation, especially when used in conjunction with external insulation systems. This extra layer helps keep your home warmer in winter and cooler in summer, improving its overall energy efficiency.
Cons of using render
⦿ Expense: While render is generally cheaper than bricks when applied to new builds, it can be costly to render an existing home. The process involves not only the application of the render itself but also the cost of professional labor and potential maintenance.
⦿ Potential for reduced property value: If you're planning to sell your property, you might want to think twice about rendering. While render can enhance the look of a home, it may not always add significant value, especially if the material doesn’t match the surrounding area. It’s a good idea to consult a local estate agent to assess whether rendering will provide a good return on investment.
⦿ High maintenance: Rendered walls are more prone to weathering, which can lead to staining and fading over time. Regular maintenance, including re-painting every 10-15 years, may be necessary to keep the façade looking fresh. Furthermore, render is more vulnerable to graffiti, especially on commercial properties.
⦿ Cracking: Like any material, render can crack over time, particularly if the underlying wall is old or damp. Cracks can allow moisture to penetrate, which could cause further damage. Careful application and maintenance are required to avoid this issue.
⦿ Planning permission: Depending on your location, you may need planning permission to render your home. If your property is in a conservation area or is a listed building, obtaining permission is necessary. Even in non-restricted areas, you must ensure the render matches the appearance of the original materials to avoid potential complications.
Making the right choice for your home
Choosing between brick and render depends on several factors, including budget, aesthetic preference, and long-term maintenance. Both options have their strengths and weaknesses, but both can provide excellent protection against the elements and enhance the appearance of your home.
If you're leaning toward brick, our team is here to help you find the perfect match for your project. We offer a range of services designed to ensure your brickwork is successful, from expert advice to sourcing bricks and arranging delivery. Whether you’re building from scratch or making repairs, we’ll help you every step of the way.
On the other hand, if render is the way to go, be sure to weigh the costs and maintenance requirements before making a final decision. Rendering can provide a striking, modern look, but it’s essential to consider its long-term upkeep and the potential impact on your home’s value.
Whatever you choose, we’re here to help make your dream home a reality!
