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On average, a quality exterior brick stain can last between 10 and 20 years, and sometimes even longer. While it will look its best for a minimum of three to five years, its total lifespan depends on several factors. These include the quality and type of stain used, the condition of the brick, and the thoroughness of the surface preparation, such as proper cleaning. Following the manufacturer's application instructions and applying a sealant as a final step is also crucial. The stain's longevity can be affected by your location, climate, and the brick's exposure to harsh weather, high traffic, and other elements. Over time, the stain may begin to fade or look dingy due to weathering, erosion, dirt, and debris. Compared to paint, brick stain generally has a longer lifespan.

Brick can increase the value of your home depending on the type of masonry materials used. Homes generally have a higher resale value when they have brick siding, and brick is also easier to maintain (and lasts longer) than other types of siding, which can motivate buyers to make an offer.

Just keep in mind, however, that although brick can up the asking price when you sell your house, the cost to brick a house is also more expensive than other typical siding costs—so you’ll invest more in the project.

You can use a regular drill to make pilot holes for gutter brackets in the wooden fascia board around the top of your house, but it’s not the best tool for brick. Instead, you’ll need a heavy-duty power tool like a hammer drill with a carbide tip bit.

While painting can certainly change the look of a chimney, you should think twice about giving your brick chimney the old landlord special.

Painting brick is porous, meaning it’s full of tiny holes that can soak up moisture. Those holes also allow it to dry, though. So, when you paint it, you trap any moisture inside, providing an opportunity for mold, mildew, and water damage.

Paint also shows wear faster than naked brick. This means that once you paint a brick surface, you’ll have to keep painting it to maintain a clean look. A paint job is also harder to undo on brick because of its porous nature. Once you paint it, it’s hard to go back without some serious power washing—another added cost.