Brick is a classic material that’s been used for homes, businesses, and more for ages. But not everyone digs the traditional red brick look, especially for a modern home. If you’re not feeling your home’s brick exterior, there’s an easy DIY trick that can give it a sleek, contemporary makeover without a ton of work.
Painting brick is a quick fix, but it’s not always the best choice. Brick is porous, so paint can trap moisture and lead to mold, mildew, and damage over time. Instead, consider adding a layer of cladding over the brick. This creates a smooth, modern facade that you can paint any color – and if you change your mind later, it’s easy to remove the cladding and reveal the original brick.
Putting up cladding over brick isn’t as simple as just slapping it on, though. You’ll need to do a few key steps to make sure the installation is solid and the brick can still “breathe.” But once you’ve got the basics down, it’s a pretty straightforward DIY project that can totally transform your home’s look.
How to install cladding over a brick exterior
Cladding over brick isn’t as simple as just nailing it up. You’ve gotta do a few important prep steps to make sure the installation is solid and the brick can still breathe properly. First, install some vertical battens along the brick wall to create a gap between the brick and the cladding. This allows airflow and prevents moisture buildup. You’ll also want to add some corner stops and PVC vent strips to keep pests out.
As for the cladding itself, fiber cement siding (like HardiePlank) is a great weatherproof option, though it can be pricey. Vinyl or aluminum are more budget-friendly alternatives. Just secure the planks right to the battens and you’re good to go. With this setup, the cladding should last for decades with minimal maintenance. And when you’re ready for a change, it’s easy to remove the cladding and show off the original brick again.


