Stone cladding

[findyourbacon]

We're thinking of buying a house that has ugly stone cladding on the front - we'd want to remove it if we bought it. Are we mad to even think about it?

you had better assume that the old brickwork is in poor condition, and budget for having the house rendered.

Although brickwork can be repointed and repaired, if it needs much work it works out expensive. You will get an idea of likely condition by looking at similar neighbouring houses.

If you go for some kind of cladding or render, you can incorporate external insulation if you wish. This may be worthwhile if there is no cavity.