When it comes to upgrading your home’s exterior, few materials make as lasting an impression as brick or stone. Both have stood the test of time for their beauty, strength, and ability to elevate curb appeal. But if you’re planning a masonry project — whether it’s a new walkway, patio, or full exterior renovation — you might find yourself wondering which option adds more value to your home.
At Glacier Home Exteriors, we specialize in both brick and stone masonry throughout Central Texas, helping homeowners choose materials that perfectly match their home’s style, environment, and long-term goals. In this guide, we’ll break down the pros, cons, and overall value of brick versus stone so you can make a confident investment in your property.
The Timeless Appeal of Brick
Brick has been used in home construction for centuries, and for good reason. Its clean lines, warm tones, and classic look fit seamlessly into almost any architectural style — from modern to traditional.
Durability and Longevity
Brick is well-known for its exceptional durability. Made from natural clay and fired in high-temperature kilns, bricks are designed to withstand decades of wear and tear. They resist fire, pests, and harsh weather conditions, which makes them especially practical in Texas’s unpredictable climate.
Homeowners who choose brick often find that maintenance costs are lower over time. Unlike wood, which can warp or rot, or stucco, which can crack, brick maintains its structure and appearance with minimal upkeep.
Energy Efficiency and Insulation
Another reason homeowners love brick is its natural ability to regulate temperature. Because of its thermal mass, brick can help keep your home cooler during hot Central Texas summers and warmer in the winter months. This not only enhances comfort but can also contribute to energy savings over time.
Design Versatility
Brick isn’t limited to a single aesthetic. Modern brick manufacturers offer a wide range of colors, sizes, and finishes — from smooth and uniform to rugged and reclaimed. This allows homeowners to create custom looks that complement the rest of their property.
Whether you prefer a classic red brick home or a sleek gray brick accent wall, the possibilities are nearly endless.
The Natural Beauty of Stone
Stone has an unmatched, organic appeal that instantly adds luxury and permanence to any property. It’s often considered the pinnacle of high-end masonry because of its distinctive texture, strength, and visual depth.
Durability That Lasts for Generations
Stone is one of the most durable materials available for residential construction. It’s naturally resistant to moisture, fire, and pests — and unlike synthetic materials, it doesn’t fade or deteriorate over time. Many historic buildings made of natural stone still stand today, a testament to its longevity.
For Texas homeowners, stone offers the added advantage of handling extreme temperatures and strong winds without damage, making it ideal for both decorative and structural applications.
Premium Curb Appeal
If you’re looking for a way to make your home stand out, stone delivers unmatched curb appeal. Whether used for a full façade, accent walls, or outdoor living spaces, stone gives your home a timeless and upscale look.
Because of its natural variation in color and pattern, no two stone projects look exactly alike. This uniqueness often translates directly into perceived value — a major factor for resale.
Minimal Maintenance
Like brick, stone requires very little maintenance once installed. Occasional cleaning and sealing can help preserve its natural beauty, but otherwise, stone is one of the most hands-off materials you can choose. For homeowners who want elegance without ongoing upkeep, stone is a standout option.
Cost Considerations: Brick vs. Stone
While both materials are excellent investments, their cost structures differ. Brick tends to be more affordable upfront, while stone often carries a higher initial price due to the material itself and the labor-intensive installation process.
However, stone’s long-term durability and higher resale value can offset its initial cost. For homeowners focused on maximizing ROI, it’s worth weighing whether a higher upfront investment could yield greater returns over time.
Brick Cost Factors
The cost of brick masonry can vary based on the brick type, design complexity, and overall square footage. Manufactured brick products are generally more affordable than hand-molded or reclaimed options.
That said, brick remains one of the most cost-effective materials for large-scale exterior projects — providing both beauty and protection without breaking the bank.
Stone Cost Factors
Stone can be divided into two categories: natural stone and manufactured (or veneer) stone. Natural stone, like limestone or granite, is more expensive but offers a distinctive, high-end look. Manufactured stone veneers are lighter, easier to install, and more budget-friendly — making them a popular choice for homeowners who want the stone look without the higher cost.
While installation for stone is typically more complex, it provides lasting value and requires minimal repair work over time.
Resale Value: What Homebuyers Want
When it comes to boosting your home’s resale value, both brick and stone can deliver strong returns. However, stone tends to edge out brick slightly when it comes to perceived luxury and curb appeal.
Homebuyers often associate stone finishes with custom, high-end homes. According to real estate trends, homes with stone or mixed masonry exteriors tend to sell faster and at higher prices than comparable homes with siding or stucco alone.
That doesn’t mean brick isn’t valuable — quite the opposite. Brick’s reputation for strength, safety, and timeless style makes it highly desirable. It’s especially attractive to buyers who appreciate low-maintenance, energy-efficient homes with lasting character.
Design Flexibility: Mixing Materials
One of the most popular trends Glacier Home Exteriors sees among Texas homeowners is combining materials for a balanced, modern look. Pairing brick with stone — or incorporating one as an accent feature — can give your property visual depth and architectural interest.
For example, you might use brick as the main exterior surface with stone accents around entryways or columns. This approach allows you to enjoy the affordability of brick with the sophistication of stone, creating the perfect harmony of cost and curb appeal.
Climate Performance in Central Texas
The Central Texas climate can be tough on exterior materials — with hot summers, heavy rains, and occasional freezing temperatures. Both brick and stone hold up extremely well in these conditions, but each has specific advantages.
Brick’s porous surface can absorb and release moisture without damage, which helps prevent cracking in fluctuating weather. Stone, on the other hand, is nearly impervious to moisture and heat, offering excellent structural stability over time.
No matter which you choose, Glacier Home Exteriors ensures professional installation with proper sealing, drainage, and insulation to maximize lifespan and protect your investment.
Environmental Impact
For eco-conscious homeowners, both brick and stone offer sustainable benefits. Brick is made from abundant natural clay and can be recycled or repurposed. Stone, being a naturally occurring material, requires minimal processing compared to synthetic alternatives.
Both materials contribute to energy efficiency due to their insulation properties, reducing long-term energy use and costs. When sourced responsibly, they can be excellent choices for homeowners looking to build or remodel sustainably.
Making the Right Choice for Your Home
Ultimately, the decision between brick and stone depends on your budget, design preferences, and long-term goals. If you’re looking for classic charm, durability, and affordability, brick might be your best fit. If you want a one-of-a-kind, high-end look that enhances resale value, stone could be the better investment.
At Glacier Home Exteriors, our team helps homeowners throughout Waco, Temple, Belton, and Killeen make the right choice for their property. We specialize in full-service masonry — from planning and design to installation and finishing — ensuring every project meets the highest standards of quality and craftsmanship.
Ready to Enhance Your Home’s Exterior?
Whether you choose brick, stone, or a combination of both, Glacier Home Exteriors delivers results that stand the test of time. Contact us today to schedule your masonry consultation and discover how we can help you add lasting beauty and value to your home.
