The type of material used to build a new house is very important, as it determines the quality of the design, comfort, and longevity of the structure. Despite the wide variety of building materials used every day, wood and brick remain the most popular types of material used in modern buildings. Both materials have their benefits and downsides and individual choices may vary depending on their budget and preferences. This article will help you decide whether a brick house is better than a wood house and the reasons why people choose one over the other.
Brick Houses
Brick is a building material used to make wall structures and other elements in masonry construction. It was traditionally made using clay but has now advanced over time to suit the current trends of modern homes. They are rectangular units made of sand and lime, clay-bearing soil and concrete materials. They are produced in different types, sizes, and materials, which may vary with time and region. Houses made of bricks are meant to last for a long time, as they are highly durable and resistant to natural elements.
Wood Houses
Wood houses are considered more economical than brick houses. They are made from natural materials that are biodegradable, recyclable, and considered ecological. Houses made of wood are fast and easy to build, budget-friendly, and energy-efficient. Despite the many benefits of wood, it is not as reliable as using bricks or other building materials. This is attributed to the fact that they are prone to different types of pests and may require occasional treatment. It can also be affected by mold that can cause extensive damage to the structure resulting in unnecessary repairs.
Reasons Why Brick Houses are better than Wood Houses
- Fire and Weather Resistant
Houses made of brick can last for a very long time because bricks can withstand direct impact from flying debris at greater wind speeds that wood. They are also noncombustible which can help contain the fire to a particular room until it is put out. It is quite different from wood materials that easily catch fire. Many insurance companies offer lower rates for Homeowners Insurance on houses with brick exteriors.
- Eco-Friendly
Bricks made from shale and clay, which are some of the most abundant materials on earth. They minimize the chances of mildew, mold, and dust mites by absorbing humidity better than other building materials. Brick is a compact and reliable material that can be repurposed for landscaping ideas, paths, or ground up to form smaller pieces of sub-base materials.
- Temperature Control and Energy Efficiency
Brick walls can stabilize the interior temperature of your house when combined with insulation. It delays the movement of heat through the wall, which keeps your house warm for longer. In doing so, it reduces your carbon footprint and thus saving you money on your utility bills. This means that the heat stays inside during winter and outside during summer.
- Endless Design Possibilities
Bricks come in various styles, colors, and shapes as it is molded from clay, shale, or concrete materials. Each brick is always unique which gives a stylish look to every brick structure. You can always find what you are looking for in brick whether you choose to go with a classic or modern design.
- Low Maintenance
A brick house does not require a lot of upkeep because of its high durability and color retention. It does not need painting and is not biodegradable like wood material. Brick homes are easy to control since you do not have to worry about termites or other pests. When the mood strikes, you can choose to power wash it or repair any loose or chipped bricks if they occur.
Factors to Consider when Choosing between Brick and Wood Materials
Some of the factors to consider when choosing between brick and wood houses include location, purpose, and maintenance. Although both wood and brick materials are suitable for country and city residences, bricks work incredibly well in cold climates as they retain natural heat. Wood houses may require occasional refinishing, treatment and replacement while brick requires little or no upkeep as it is resistant to damage. Brick has an excellent property value that means it can be put up for sale with little effort compared to houses made of wood.
All the excellent qualities of brick houses outweigh the benefits of wood houses. Although wood houses are popular, they require high maintenance and have higher lower rates for Homeowners Insurance compared to bricks. While brick houses may have high upfront costs, they can help you save money in the long run because of their low maintenance costs.