If your home has brick walls behind drywall, or if you’ve bought a house with brick interior walls, you may be wondering if it’s a good idea to leave brick exposed. Like other home design options, it has pros and cons.
Aesthetics
An exposed brick wall is a relatively uncommon feature that can serve as a focal point. Many people find exposed brick attractive and inviting. The texture of brick can create a cozy and welcoming atmosphere. Since each brick is unique, an exposed brick wall can add character and visual interest to a room. If you plan to sell your house in the future, an exposed brick wall may make it appealing to buyers who are looking for something a little different.
Old brick walls are usually red, although their color can fade over time. Newer brick walls may be other colors. You can paint a brick wall, but if you don’t like the new color, it will be hard to remove paint without damaging the wall.
Although brick walls are attractive, they can be hard to decorate. If you want to hang artwork, you may need to drill holes in the mortar or use brick clips.
Older homes had brick visible on the outside and covered inside. Since bricks that were used on interior walls were going to be hidden, they were often of inferior quality and were installed by less experienced workers. Bricks that are exposed may be cracked or chipped and may have rough surfaces. Those imperfections may detract from the wall’s appearance, or they may add to its character.
Durability and Maintenance
Brick is a strong material that can stand up to wear and tear and household accidents better than drywall can. If you have rambunctious kids or pets, and you’re concerned about them damaging walls, you shouldn’t have to worry about that with exposed brick.
Brick and mortar are porous materials, which means they’re susceptible to water damage and mold. Changes in humidity can cause brick and mortar to chip and crumble. An exposed brick wall should be protected with a sealant.
It can be difficult to keep a brick wall clean. Dirt can get trapped on rough and uneven surfaces and on the mortar, between bricks. You may need special cleaning products to remove dirt and dust without damaging the brick and mortar.
Energy Efficiency
When brick is covered with drywall, the drywall provides an additional layer of insulation. Eliminating that extra layer and leaving a brick wall exposed can make your property less energy efficient. One exposed brick wall may not affect your utility costs that much, but multiple brick walls may cause your bills to spike.
Is Exposed Brick Right for You?
An exposed brick wall can add to your home’s character, but it can be challenging to maintain and may cause your energy bills to rise. Weigh the pros and cons before you buy a house with exposed brick or uncover a brick wall.
