From the ArcaMax Publishing, Gardening Newsletter:
http://www.arcamax.com/news/gardening/s-156720-143512
Question: The front of my brick home is very plain and faces eastward.
I would like to liven it up by planting a climbing perennial. I've
recently heard that a study showed that ivies are no longer considered
a threat to the brick and mortar. Is that true?
Answer: Yes, research has shown that ivies and peennial vines that
cling to brick or wood with sticky pads do not cause damage. In some
cases dampness can be a problem, especially with wood siding, if the
vine holds a good deal of moisture against the wall. Since your
exposure is east, the morning sun should dry things out enough to
prevent problems. To be on the safe side, though, you might consider
erecting a trellis and planting a vine that climbs by twining.