You will see beautiful stone structures across Yorkshire, from walls to houses and commercial buildings. These reflect construction methods of the past when stone was the material of choice for all kinds of builds. However, these days you are likely to see more walls and houses made of brick.
At Holmfirth Building Services, we believe stone masonry is still a leading choice for projects in Wakefield and the surrounding areas. Here, we compare stone and brick to help you make an informed decision for your own project.
If you are seeking further building advice, please explore our blog to read about topics like extension tips, garden renovations and roof care throughout the year.
Here are the main points to compare when deciding between brick or stone:
Brick is a durable material that lasts around 100 years or more, with little maintenance needed in the first 25 years. However, stone is even more impressive and can easily last hundreds of years.
Both stone and brick are resistant to fire and weather, but stone is harder to disfigure with chips, dents and scratches.
The way you want your property to look is a key factor which will influence your decision. Stone masonry is often preferred for creating traditional-style properties which reflect older buildings in Wakefield and the surrounding areas.
Brickwork can also suit a classic style, but it’s important to choose the right type of brick and laying method/design. Brick works well for contemporary and mid-century-style homes and is ideal if you want to add render or cladding.
If working on an existing property, you should match any new structures to existing materials.
Most people must tailor building work to a set budget. If your budget is tight, or if you want to allocate more money to other aspects of the project, brick might be the better choice. This is because brick is cheaper than stone. It can also be quicker and easier to lay, leading to lower labour costs.
However, brickwork is less durable and more likely to need repairs over its lifetime. This can make stone a more cost-effective option for customers in the Wakefield area.