Expert: Bruce E. Johnson - 9/23/2010

Question
We are looking into buying another home with the new construction of today is the frame home just as sturdy and reliable as the brick home. And does a brick front only on a home make it a upgraded cheap home cause of the frame walls?

Answer
Hi Rena, frame homes are sturdy and last a long time.  For example, drive down a street in a small town and see all the old Victorian homes that are still standing after hundreds of years.  As far as brick goes: wood framed homes with brick veneer are the best of both worlds.  You get the insulation factor of a wood framed house and a beautiful basically maintenance free exterior.  Most newer brick homes are wood framed with brick exterior.  Brick homes with solid brick walls are sturdy also but they do have certain problems that are endemic such as moisture penetration and poor insulation characteristics.  As in all types of home construction, you get what you pay for.  A well built home can be made of many materials and combination of materials so when looking at houses concentrate on curb appeal and good construction and you won't go wrong regardless of the materials used.  I hope this information helps, please feel free to write again regarding this or other matters, sincerely bruce e johnson..bejohnsonconsulting.com