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What do I need to consider before using brick veneer on my wood-framed homes?

Question:

What do I need to consider before using brick veneer on my wood-framed homes?

Answer:

Bricks are porous materials that, when properly installed, provide an attractive and durable exterior to a new home. However, there are some design and installation issues to consider because of the porosity of brick. It is very important to have at least a one-inch space behind the veneer and to have a "drainage plane" to handle the moisture that gets behind the brick. Housewrap or asphalt paper is usually used. Weep holes in the brick should be provided to maintain an equal pressure on both sides of the brick. Also, the brick should not be subject to repeated wetting from the exterior, if possible, so avoid the use of sprinklers and include overhangs to help protect walls. The IBACOS fact sheet located at www.ibacos.com/pubs/FactSheet-BrickVeneer.pdf can help you understand the issue more clearly. If you live in an area where bricks are subject to wetting followed by sunshine, you may want to read up on solar-driven moisture and brick, at www.buildingscienceconsulting.com/resources/walls/solar_driven_moisture_brick.htm or www.buildingscienceconsulting.com/resources/walls/brick_stucco_housewraps.pdf.