It’s not strange for you to come across a home with a combination of both brick and siding. In case you are planning to build such a concept, you must figure out what you are going to use for the transition.
The latter is of utmost importance because it prevents water and moisture leaks that can damage your interior walls. It also improves the aesthetics of your home’s exterior.
In this post, I will be taking you through a DIY guide on how to build the perfect brick-to-siding transition. I will also list a couple of factors you need to keep in mind when engaging in this project.
Can You Transition from Brick to Siding?
Even though it may seem impossible, you can transition from brick to siding. To pull off this job, you will need one important material – a metal sheet flashing. This is the key ingredient behind a flawless transition from brick to siding.
How to Perform a Brick-to-Siding Transition?
Step 1: Gather Essential Materials
Like all other construction projects, it’s crucial that you first assemble all essential materials and tools before starting the job. In this case, you will need metal flashing, some caulking, a couple of nails, a hammer, a metal cutter, and some house wrap.
Step 2: Calculate the Length of the Transition Between Brick and Siding
Most people make the mistake of going straight ahead and fitting the flashing. However, it’s advisable to measure the length of this joint or intersection.
This information will help you figure out how much flashing will be needed to seal the transition. For intersections that are longer, you will need to use several pieces of flashing. Keep that in mind as you gather your materials.
Step 3: Measure and Cut the Flashing as Per the Desired Length
Because this flashing is made out of metal, you will need a metal cutter. Refer to the length calculated above and cut the flashing to the desired height. The cutters should make your work easier.
Step 4: Apply Some Caulking Between the Brick and Siding
Caulking does a commendable job of sealing gaps in both brick and siding. Apply a generous amount of caulking between the brick and siding.
A caulking gun comes in handy in this step. To ensure that the transition is perfectly sealed, I highly recommend applying caulking on the back of the metal flashing. This will ensure minimal moisture penetration.
Step 5: Fit the Metal Flashing Where Siding Meets the Brick
Without wasting any time, take the metal flashing that has been cut and spread with caulking and fit it into the transition. You can’t rely on the caulking for adhesion.
So, grab some nails and hammer them into the transition. Spread the news a few inches apart. Make sure that you use rust-free nails as they won’t corrode easily.
Step 6: Cover the Transition with House Wrap
Finish up your transition with house wrap and start installing the siding. Please note that it’s important for the metal flashing to go under the siding and not on top of it. The former option is more effective at preventing water entry into the transition.
Factors to Consider in a Brick-to-Siding Transition
• The local building codes – Different areas have varying regulations. To avoid any issues with the local authorities, always confirm if a brick-to-siding transition is compliant with your local codes.
• The condition of the brick – Never build a transition on damaged bricks. The best solution is to remove any worn-out bricks, replace them and work on your transition.
• Aesthetics – Brick doesn’t blend easily with siding. Therefore, you have to be extremely careful with the flashing you install in this transition.
The flashing should blend the brick with the siding to create a flawless transition. Fortunately, flashings come in multiple materials and finishes. It shouldn’t be so hard for you to get the aesthetics right.
• A moisture-proof setup – Most people prioritize beauty when transitioning from brick to siding. However, a moisture-proof setup should be the main priority.
When transitioning between these two surfaces, you need to install a weather-resistant barrier that will keep water and moisture away from the internal walls. Using some caulk goes a long way in sealing gaps that might let moisture through.
• Durability – The main reason why I recommended metal flashing is because it’s more durable. You can also get plastic flashing but it wouldn’t last as long as its metal counterpart. When building such a setup, your main goal should be to achieve longevity.
• Energy Efficiency – If you are not careful when transitioning from brick to siding, you may create a thermal energy leak.
This eventually leads to high power bills and discomfort. During the transition between brick and siding, you can always add more insulation.
What Can Go Wrong During a Brick-to-Siding Transition?
If you follow the steps I have shared above, everything should proceed smoothly. However, there are a couple of issues that may arise. It’s crucial to understand these issues and how to deal with them.
One of the most common problems you may encounter is uncovering structural damage. Brick walls, though durable, are vulnerable to rot and water damage.
As you are installing a flashing between brick and siding, you may discover structural damage which must first be repaired before you proceed.
The other thing you have to take note of is the expenses associated with this project. You will need to buy some caulking and metal flashing. If you aren’t a DIY enthusiast, you may also have to hire a contractor to build the transition on your behalf.
Sometimes, if you perform a poor installation, you may attract a myriad of problems. A poorly installed flashing between brick and siding can lead to issues such as water damage, rot of the interior walls, poor insulation, and ventilation.
To avoid these problems, you must be very careful when following the steps above. In case you doubt your abilities or skills, never hesitate to seek professional help.
How to Ensure Your Brick-to-Siding Transition is Aesthetically Pleasing?
We can all agree that aesthetics is crucial when building a brick-to-siding transition. A metal flashing will only cover the hideous gap between these two walls.
If you want an aesthetically pleasing transition, you have to ensure the brick matches with the siding. And there are several ways you can achieve this.
First, you have to pay attention to the existing brick. Examine its color, texture, and design. That will be the starting point of your design.
You can then paint or look for a flashing that complements or contrasts the brick. You have to use your creativity in this step. A home designer or architect can help you out with this.
Seeking inspiration from existing homes that have a brick-to-siding transition can give you an idea or two on how to make your home look better. There are hundreds of pictures on the internet that showcase homes with a brick-to-siding transition.
Do You Need a Moisture Barrier in a Brick-to-Siding Transition?
Yes, you do. On its own, a metal flashing can’t prevent the entry of water in the gap between brick and siding.
However, a quality moisture barrier will keep water at bay and prevent damage, rot, and mold growth. Therefore, never attempt to install a brick-to-siding transition without a moisture barrier.
Is using a concrete sill another brick-to-siding option? Thanks, Michel