How To Choose the Right Exterior Wall Cladding

Different combinations of finishes and siding are possible for the exterior walls of a house. Thus, you can find brick and stone on the façade of the house, and vinyl siding, less expensive to buy and to install, on the side walls. Other combinations are also possible. This depends a lot on the budget and the importance given to appearance/aesthetics, by the homeowner.

Most exterior finishing products do not require any maintenance (such as brick, mortarless bricks, stone, wood fibre panels, treated wood). Only natural wood, except for cedar, requires minimal maintenance we suggest you apply linseed oil every 5 years.

All products with mortar joints should be inspected on a regular basis. Even though the mortar now being produced is highly durable, patching or replacing may be necessary in order to ensure that the exterior finish remains waterproof.

From a purely aesthetic standpoint, certain finishes (ex.: aluminum, vinyl, acrylic coating, wood fibre panels) will benefit from periodic cleaning with a soft detergent, particularly in the city where air quality is lower.