Exterior Siding - Which One Will Boost Curb Appeal?

RenoQuotes.com put together a comparison table featuring the various exterior siding materials retailed. That way, you can let your imagination run wild, and use the most common siding material, pairing it with another in select areas. Or, you can stick to the most sought-after, such as brick, aluminum, and vinyl.

What Is the Best Exterior Siding for a Residential Property?

Vinyl Siding

Characteristics

• Among the most sought-after

• Retailed in several colours and patterns

Advantages

• Affordable

• Easy to install

• Impact- and scratch-resistant

• Lightweight

Drawbacks

• The material may warp if poorly installed

• Vinyl can shrink based on the temperature

• Colour can fade after prolonged sun exposure

For more information about vinyl siding: How to Install Vinyl Siding

Aluminum Siding

Characteristics

Can be painted in an array of colours

Advantages

• Can withstand strong winds and temperature changes

• Doesn’t shrink like vinyl

• Long-lasting material

Drawbacks

• Less impact-resistant than vinyl

• Dents are more likely to show

• Doesn't fair well when exposed to fire

For more information about aluminum siding: The Pros and Cons of Aluminum Siding

Wood Siding

Characteristics

• Increases the house’s market value given the material's inherent properties

• Requires galvanized or aluminum nails to prevent rust

• Can be painted or stained

• Retailed in a slew of colours and textures

• Can be used on a single wall to give the house a stylish appeal

Advantages

• Affordable

• Aesthetic

Drawbacks

• Beware of fire!

• Must be treated against mould

• More high maintenance than other materials: linseed oil finish every 5 years

For more information about wood siding: Wood Exterior Siding: How to Elevate the Look of Your Home

High-Density Fibre Wood Engineered Siding (CanExel)

Characteristics

• Engineered wood: wood fibres, resin binder, and wax

• Wood-look

• Retailed in a myriad of colours, patterns, and textures

Advantages

• Low maintenance

• More resilient than traditional wood when exposed to moisture and UV rays

• Long-lasting

• Eco-friendly

Drawbacks

N/A

For more information about high-density fibre wood: Everything About CanExel Exterior Siding

Fibre Cement Panels

Characteristics

• Mix of cement, sand, and cellulose

• Smooth or textured boards or panels

• The Association of Architects warns homeowners against the use of fibre cement panels.

Advantages

• Decent weather and fire resistance

• Parasite- and mould-resistant

• Long-lasting (yet the Association of Architects advises against its use)

• Low maintenance

Drawbacks

The Ordre des architectes du Québec claims that fibre cement panels:

• Crack

• Fade

• Chip soon after installation 

For more information about fibre cement: Price of Fibre Cement Siding and Installation Guide

Brick Cladding

Characteristics

Still a very sought-after option by homeowners.

Advantages

• Great soundproofing

• Very resistant

• Long-lasting

• Low maintenance

Drawbacks

• Expensive

• Must be installed on a sturdy base, ensuring the additional load from the bricks is supported (can incur additional costs)

• Subject to problems like bulging/bowing brick

For more information about brick cladding: How to Install Exterior Brick Siding

Exterior Insulation and Finish System (EIFS)

Characteristics

• Factory-made finish

• Mix of concrete or expanded polystyrene and acrylic base

Advantages

• Aesthetically pleasing

• Decent weather resistance

Drawbacks

• Mandates a professional installation

• Production causes pollution

For more information about EIFS: Why Use Acrylic Parging on Your House

Suretouch

Characteristics

• Looks like brick or stone

• Bricks and stones are shaped in a polystyrene mould and screwed onto the house using stainless steel screws

• Famous for its insulation capabilities (R13.5)

• Aesthetically appealing

Advantages

• Easy to install

• Much faster to install compared to brick

• Cheaper than stone and brick

• Provides decent airflow

• Waterproof (subject to high-quality joints)

• Can be installed on both a new build or an aging structure

Drawbacks

• Improperly installed siding can lead to various issues, particularly with the joints

For more information about Suretouch: What to Know About Suretouch Exterior Siding

How Much Does It Cost to Install Exterior Siding?

Exterior siding prices vary. The table lists the average costs to help you choose the best option for your budget.

How to Choose the Right Exterior Siding

When choosing exterior siding, consider regional weather patterns. This will help you make a well-informed decision on the most suitable siding material. Don’t hesitate to consult your contractor, or contact the manufacturer in question; both can provide valuable insight.

Moreover, factor in the amount of time you’ll need to dedicate to maintenance each year. For instance, wood requires much more upkeep compared to brick.

FAQ About Exterior Siding

What is CanExel?

CanExel is a high-density engineered wood exterior siding, manufactured from compressed wood waste, coated in resin and long-lasting paint. It mimics the look of real wood and is weather-, impact, and discolouration-resistant. It’s often used on residential buildings and cottages due to its aesthetic appeal and easy upkeep.

What are the different kinds of metal siding options?

There’s a slew of different metal siding options:

• Steel: Durable and impact-resistant, ideal for storm-prone areas.

• Aluminum: Lightweight, corrosion-resistant, and low maintenance.

• Zinc: Makes for a modern look, and develops a protective patina over time.

• Copper: Especially aesthetic and long-lasting yet expensive and mainly used for architectural details.

• Corrugated metal: Used to achieve industrial and contemporary looks, and often made with galvanized steel or aluminum.