Worn brick work - what are my options

[HAM_SANDWICH]

I live in a 1965 detached house and the brickwork is looking a bit tired, its quite pale to start with which doesn't help, but some of the bricks themselves are chipped or are flaking, I'm assuming due to frost damage etc. and it gives the whole house a poor overall look.

I really want to smarten up the exterior of the house as internally its in good condition.

I've looked tentatively at a few options and I wanted some advice:

I've looked at rendering but a relative suggested that it actually accelerates brick decay (he's a brickie).

I've looked at modern cladding systems (which I like the look of) but am unsure as to their suitability and durability.

Next door (identical style house) looks like its had its entire exterior brick-layer replaced. This would be my preferred option, but I'm assuming its very expensive, anyone any ideas how much?

Thanks for any advice.

 

[Nige F]

Tile hang the top half then it`ll look like the houses we have here..Sussex style