Building Comparison: Double Brick Versus Brick Veneer

The aesthetic appeal of brick makes it a popular choice for homeowners, but many don't realize there are two separate options which can create a similar look: double brick and brick veneer. Understanding the difference between the two, as well as the pros and cons associated with each option, is important for those who are preparing to purchase a new home or planning for new construction projects.

Double Brick: Pros and Cons
While both double brick and brick veneer offer the same basic visual style, they're actually quite different. Unlike brick veneer, which is installed with the express purpose of creating this style on the surface without offering structural support, double brick is part of an overall structural system.
•Pros: Double brick offers a considerably more stable structure in the event of a natural disaster, violent storm or exposure to the elements over many years. The cavity between double brick walls can help to not only provide lower thermal transmission between interior and exterior areas, but also to keep interior spaces quieter by muffling outdoor noise. Homes which boast double brick construction are also minimally prone to damage by timber pests, including termites.
•Cons: Double brick construction tends to be significantly more expensive than other methods, including the use of brick veneer. Home extensions and remodeling projects can be a bit more complicated due to the nature of double brick construction, as well.

Brick Veneer: Pros and Cons
Like double brick construction, brick veneer offers sophisticated aesthetic appeal paired with minimal maintenance requirements. Still, before making a final decision regarding your new construction project or home purchase, it's important to consider a few facts about brick veneer.
•Pros: Brick veneer allows homeowners to reap many of the benefits associated with brick construction without forcing them to invest in double brick building projects. Also, brick veneer can be added to wall surfaces of an existing structure as part of a remodeling project, while double brick will require complete rebuilding. Because brick veneer is quite a lightweight material in comparison to double brick, foundation building and support systems aren't subjected to such heavy weight and don't require extensive footing systems.
•Cons: Unlike double brick, brick veneer construction doesn't provide the same level of thermal performance. Also, because timber bracing and framing will still be used extensively in the building process, brick veneer homes may still fall prey to termites and other timber pests. The thinner and less substantial nature of veneer won't provide homes with the same noise transmission prevention qualities, so exterior noise pollution may still be something of a factor in these homes when compared against similar structures constructed from double brick.

Armed with a bit of knowledge about how double brick compares to brick veneer can help you to make more informed decisions, whether you're purchasing an existing property or beginning new construction. Whichever option you choose, be sure to plan for either a new purchase or new construction building inspection before settling in to your new space, to ensure your home is safe and structurally sound.

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