Brick Advantages

• One major advantage brick has over other types of siding is its market value. Brick homes and homes renovated with brick resell for more. Brick also requires little to no maintenance, meaning it doesn't need painting or replacing. Brick is durable, offers good protection from the weather, sun and insects. Brick also does not burn, which deters outside fires more easily than other types of siding.
  
  

Brick Disadvantages

• Brick costs more than other siding. This also means renovating a home with brick can be very expensive. Brick is also very heavy. If the mortar or the layout of the bricks is sub par in any way, the foundation of the wall could be in trouble. For a home to be stable, a professional mason is needed.
  
  

Brick Veneer

• Brick veneer is a type of brick siding that looks like real brick, but is much lighter and easier to install. Brick veneer is also cheaper than real brick. Unfortunately, brick veneer can have serious problems if improperly installed. A water barrier is needed to protect water from leaking underneath; otherwise rot, mildew and mold can occur.
  
  

Vinyl Siding

• Vinyl siding is siding put on houses in the form of layered sheets or panels. Because vinyl siding comes in many colors, painting isn't required. It is also much easier to install than brick. Vinyl siding is also the most cost friendly, but can still provide good protection, depending on its gauge or thickness. This thickness determines how weather and impact resistant the material is. However, if a vinyl panel is damaged, the whole section may need replacing.
  
  

Aluminum Siding

• Aluminum siding is another form of siding that can be installed in panels. Aluminum gives good cold and heat insulation, and is waterproof and fireproof. Aluminum siding can even have textures to look like wood. It requires painting and should be done with professional help or expertise, since paints should be primed for the material. Also, if the siding becomes dented, the whole panel would need replacing.