Cost to Build a Brick House

On February 16, 2025 By newsroom Topic: Home Services

Building a brick house offers durability, beauty, and eco-friendliness, but it’s a more expensive option compared to other construction methods. Below is a comprehensive breakdown of costs and factors to consider.

Average Cost

Total Cost: $200,000–$400,000
Average: $282,000

| Expense | Percentage of Total | Cost | |---------------------|-------------------------|--------------------| | Materials | 50% | ~$140,000 | | Labor | 50% | ~$140,000 | | Permits | - | $1,200–$2,000 |

Cost per Square Foot

Brick Siding Installation: $9–$28 per sq. ft. (materials + labor).
Average for a 2,500 sq. ft. home: $10,000–$75,000.

Material Costs

| Material Type | Cost per Square Foot |
|------------------------------|----------------------------|
| Face Brick Siding | $4–$8 |
| Thin Brick Veneer (Real) | $3–$10 |
| Faux Brick Veneer (Stone) | $4–$10 |
| Faux Brick Panel Siding | $6–$10 |
| Mortar and Supplies | $0.40–$0.50 |

Average material cost: $5,000–$40,000 (depending on size and brick type).

Labor Costs

Total Labor: ~$140,000 (for full house construction).
Brick Siding Labor: $5,000–$35,000.
Bricklayer Rates: $50–$100 per hour.
Factors impacting costs:
Multi-story homes
Complex shapes or odd angles
Local labor demand

Factors Affecting Costs

Size & Shape of the Home:
Larger homes require more materials and labor.
Irregular shapes with many corners increase costs.
Height of the Home:
Multi-story homes require scaffolding and additional safety precautions, driving up labor costs.
Brick Type:
Face Brick Siding: Most expensive and durable.
Brick Veneer: Lower cost but not structural.
Permits:
Building permits typically range from $1,200 to $2,000 for a full home.

Tips to Save Costs

DIY Some Tasks: Paint, install trim, or handle light fixtures yourself.
Source Materials Directly: Purchase brick directly from suppliers or secondhand.
Simplify the Design: Opt for a single-story home or reduce exterior corners.
Choose Brick Veneer: Lower cost while still achieving the brick aesthetic.

Pros of Brick Houses

Durable and weather-resistant.
Energy-efficient, retaining heat in winter and cool air in summer.
Low maintenance compared to other siding options.
Fire-resistant and eco-friendly.

Cons of Brick Houses

Higher initial construction cost.
Difficult and costly to modify or repair.
Limited design flexibility.

Building a brick house is a worthwhile investment for homeowners prioritizing durability, style, and long-term value. Proper planning and cost-saving strategies can help make this dream a reality.