Characteristics Of Various Building Cladding

By Author: Jason Paget
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Customers can select from a number of different materials when choosing wall cladding. Vinyl siding is the most widely used type of siding also one of the most affordable. Aluminum cladding is more costly than vinyl, but is also more durable and long-lasting. Wood shingles made from cedar or redwood may be used for their aesthetic appeal, though they tend to be relatively costly and high-maintenance.

Vinyl Siding

Vinyl siding is the most common exterior finish used on buildings. This material is made from rows of polyvinyl chloride (PVC) resin panels. It is known as a cheap siding material that is easy to cut, install and replace as necessary. Vinyl siding is available is a wide array of colors, and is sold according to the thickness and durability required. This material does not need to be painted, and the only maintenance needed is cleaning via power washing when necessary, typically every year or two.

Stone Veneer

There are a several advantages to this type of cladding. First, it is installed with an empty air space between the building and the back of the stone. Weep holes placed ...
... at the bottom of this opening allow for excellent drainage, and help keep water out of the building itself. In addition, this cavity provides plenty of space to install building insulation, particularly rigid foam boards, which can help control temperature and reduce heating and cooling costs.

Exterior Insulation Finish Systems - EIFS (Synthetic Stucco)

Now a dayes EIFS are one of most popular exterior cladding products for commercial buildings such as schools, offices, and high rises. It is made from artificial components, rather than the sand and cement used to produce stucco. EIFS is a system of plastic insulating panels covered by a synthetic stucco-like material. The finish on these walls can mimic the texture of stucco or plaster, or can be troweled so smooth that it looks like a solid piece of stone. Dyes and pigments are used to color EIFS as it is applied, or it can be painted. Improved technology is helping to grow the popularity of this product throughout the world.

Wood Siding

Wood siding and shingles are very common types of cladding. This material is made up of wood planks derived from oak, pine and cedar trees. When rows are installed so that they overlap, the effect is called "clapboard," leading to the term "clapboard house." Wood siding is naturally weather-resistant, environmentally-friendly and thermally insulating. This material is quite durable, but requires more maintenance than most other kinds of cladding. It must be treated for termites every few years, and tends to need repainting or a touch-up quite frequently.

Metal Siding

Metal siding is extremely strong and durable, and will last for years with no maintenance. While rust can be a problem, it can be avoided through the use of galvanized metal. Aluminum siding, on the other hand, is a popular cladding for homes in coastal areas. The aluminum will not rust or corrode when exposed to moisture or saltwater, and can withstand storms and harsh conditions better than many other cladding products. Metal siding in general is fairly expensive, though it is resistant to rot, termites, and most kinds of damage.

Every type of exterior wall cladding has various characteristics associated with the installation, durability, appearance, and cost differentials.

About Author:

Jason Paget from Elite Composites writes about Wall Cladding. For more information on Wall Cladding please visit http://www.elitecomposites.co.uk/