Brick walls and stone walls each have their own advantages and disadvantages. Neither is strictly better than the other, and the style of wall you choose will depend on your own preferences and needs.
Whether you are planning an exterior wall, interior accent wall, an addition or a renovation, this article will help you decide what is the best solution for your building project.
Contact us at Blackwell Masonry for a free estimate. We offer fast, high quality repairs.
Comparing Brick Walls vs. Stone Walls
Paint can liven up your brick walls, but will need to be maintained.
Brick is Generally Less Expensive Than Stone
There are two main reasons that brick is generally less expensive than stone. The first is that, as bricks are manufactured, it is easier to keep production costs down. The second is that brick is easier and less time-consuming to work with than stone.
Manufactured stone can be useful for cladding and is less expensive than natural stone, but more expensive than brick. Our staff is experienced with both brick and stone products.
Brick and Stone on Exterior Walls
Both brick and stone offer advantages over other products. They are solid, durable, won't burn and are energy efficient.
Both brick walls and stone walls take a longer time than other building materials to warm up, but will retain heat well, which may be a problem if you live in a particularly warm environment.
Natural stone walls are known for their coldness and may be more appealing in a hot climate as the thick walls keep the heat out. Lightweight, man-made stone is often used as cladding on exterior walls, providing a timeless appeal.
Exposed brick or stone adds a natural beauty to the inside of your home.
Comparing Brick and Stone Inside Your Home
You may wish to add appeal to a home by adding a brick or stone wall in a few rooms. A natural stone wall can provide a startling contrast to a plain wall and will especially if you incorporate other features such as a fireplace.
Both matching brick and stone walls can offer continuity from the exterior walls to the interior creating an intriguing appeal. Whereas brick will create uniformity and clean, straight lines, stone will provide a striking contrast to the straight lines found elsewhere in your home.
Ask where your stone is coming from to make sure it’s ethically sourced.
Environmental Impact
If you are thinking green - and what responsible person isn't these days - then both brick and stone have different environmental impacts. Locally sourced stone can cut down on transportation costs. Nevertheless, quarrying, dressing and transportation do have an impact.
Choose responsibly sourced local stone to minimize the environmental impact. Bricks offer the opportunity to get exactly the colour, texture and shape you want but are probably manufactured some distance away, meaning increased transport costs. Furthermore, cooking the brick is a heating process that creates an environmental impact.
Both brick walls and stone walls are excellent thermal mass insulation options. This is because both store more heat longer than framed homes.
Choose Blackwell
At Blackwell Masonry, we have decades of experience working with both brick and stone and can help advise you on the best choice for your project.
Contact us to discuss your plans and take advantage of our free estimates. Our knowledgeable and friendly staff will complete your project quickly and professionally.
We are located in the Kitchener-Waterloo area.
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