If people were still willing to live in a two bedroom house with one bathroom, no garage, and tiny kitchen, they could still have an all brick house. I believe the difference is that people are choosing bigger, fancier houses over masonry houses. This isn't just a St. Louis thing, but happening everywhere.
It's mainly a union labor thing. The brick layers union is the main reason that you see so much vinyl.
^I know. You guys tell us that at every opportunity. No doubt, the unions are a factor. But, I don't think it is entirely that simple. But, we have had this discussion a thousand times, so I will stop. If someone wants to come back and blame the unions again, I will let you have the last word.
It's diffinitely not just a City thing, either. I drive through new suburban areas quite often for work, and I'm amazed to see most McMansions also feature the brick front/vinyl sides thing.
