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Brick is the closest choice when seeking to capture the timeless look of stone with a more practical and budget-friendly option. When comparing stone versus brick siding, the price range of $200,000 to $400,000 for average brick home construction is dramatically lower compared to the cost of building a stone home. If you'd like to keep the stone aesthetic without the cost, stone veneer and manufactured stone are both less expensive than real stone.

A well-made brick wall can last up to 100 years if maintained properly, which includes regularly repairing the mortar every 30 to 50 years. If your brick wall is under 30 years old and is already showing signs of repair, it may be due to poor brickwork and installation. Extreme weather conditions can also accelerate a brick wall’s life span (especially the exterior of a house).

Fireclay is a type of clay but it is a type of clay that, because of its chemical composition, can be fired at a much higher temperature than other clays. This results in a denser and more heat-resistant final material. Because of the high percentage of a mineral called kaolin, fireclay sinks are smoother and more durable than other clay types.

Depending on the amount of soot present, you can vacuum some of it using a brush attachment on your vacuum cleaner. Then, remove the leftovers with a mild cleaner, such as dish soap or vinegar mixed with water. Before applying a cleaning solution, saturate the bricks with clean water to prevent the cleaner from penetrating beyond the surface and causing structural damage to the bricks.