The right exterior cladding adds a layer of protection, durability, and comfort to your home, and it can really elevate its curb appeal. With so many exterior home building products on the market, it can be challenging to choose the best style.
To make your life easier, we’ve compiled a list of seven cladding products that are sure to ‘wow’ anyone passing by your property. Each type of product offers various style options, and you mix and match to make your home’s exterior your own. Use our free Visualizer tool to see your house in a variety of exterior cladding products, styles and colors.
1. Vinyl
Vinyl siding is the most popular cladding product on the market due to its beauty and affordability. Vinyl siding products mimic natural wood, offering homeowners gorgeous curb appeal without the maintenance of authentic wood cladding. Vinyl siding is immune to water damage, requires very little maintenance, and is manufactured to protect itself and your home against extreme weather conditions. It’s also a sustainable option as it has a long lifespan and can be recycled when replaced. When it comes to the cost vs. value of home improvement and remodeling projects, vinyl siding is one of the leading products recommended for resale value.
2. Composite Cladding
Composite cladding combines beauty, performance and easy installation while providing incredible value. This siding option looks like real wood but requires minimal maintenance and has additional benefits such as improved fire rating, weather protection, and insulation. With a variety of fade-resistant colors to choose from, you’re sure to have a just-installed look for years to come.
3. Stainless Steel
Stainless steel siding is known for its high resistance to extreme environmental impacts. Its heavy-duty construction provides an exceptional shield for your home, warding off battering winds, pouring rain and scorching heat. Manufacturers now offer textures, colors and grain patterns that mimic traditional wood siding for an increased curb appeal that is built to last.
4. Aluminum
Aluminum siding is a low-maintenance product that preserves its beautiful appearance season after season in milder climates. Unfortunately, aluminum siding is prone to dents and scratching; however, it has become a popular residential choice for its budget-friendly price tag.
5. Wood
Natural wood cladding is available in a variety of styles and colors to suit almost any homeowner’s taste. However, it’s not as durable as other cladding materials and is more expensive to install and maintain. Wood siding requires ongoing maintenance, especially in unforgiving outdoor environments, as it needs to be sealed with paint or stained regularly to protect it from scratches, moisture damage and insect invasion problems.
6. Brick
For a decorative earthen look, brick is a great option. Brick comes in a wide variety of styles, colors, textures and sizes to suit your taste and increase your curb appeal. While brick is expensive to install, it’s less costly to maintain than many other cladding options. You can mix and match brick with vinyl or composite cladding styles to create a unique look for your home.
7. Stone & Stone Veneer
While using real stone is an option that is sure to “wow,” it’s heavy to work with, expensive to install and prone to water and frost damage. A great alternative is manufactured stone veneer, which delivers the beauty of authentic stone masonry without the excess cost and installation time. Manufactured stone veneer is lightweight, easy to install, and can add a layer of protection and insulation to your home’s exterior. Stone cladding is perfect for adding beautiful finishing touches to your home and covering your foundation base.
Upgrading your home’s cladding can be a tricky and daunting process. Use our free visualizer tool to help you choose the right color and product combination to suit your home and personal style.