Exterior walls can be finished with a wide variety of materials and techniques. And seeing as they are the first line of defense against the elements of nature, you should be well informed to make the right decision.
Walls can be cladded for aesthetic purposes, or for texture, bringing out color and adding character to the building’s exteriors.
However, the use of the wall cladding isn’t limited to just providing a great look and adding an extra layer of decoration to the architecture. If done in a certain way, cladding can help make your walls soundproof, provide thermal insulation, protect against rain, storm, and harsh weather.
A large number of exterior finish wall cladding materials can be used and choosing the correct material can and should take some time, considering how important it is.
Brick Cladding for Exterior Finish
It offers impressive durability as well as some degree of aesthetic appeal. Bricks are resistant to fire, require very little maintenance, and can last for decades. However, it is a costly option because its installation is labor-intensive. It is also resistant to rot and mold.
Stone for Exterior Finish
natural stones like granite, slate, and limestone are used to clad walls. It is lasting and requires low maintenance. It provides a natural look and texture to the walls, but the initial cost is high.
Wood
A sustainable finish and prized for its natural aesthetic appeal. It is easy to cut and shape, as well as to install. Additionally, it comes in a wide variety of grades and species. However, without diligent maintenance, it wouldn’t last long. It is also prone to rot and termites.
Engineered Wood for Exterior Finish
Although it is made from composite materials, it imitates the real thing exceptionally well. It is available in several styles and textures and is cheaper than real wood. It is also strong enough to tolerate harsh weather conditions. However, it is new to the market and isn’t completely reliable.
Concrete
A simple mixture of sand, gravel, cement, and water, in certain proportions, can create a durable home exterior that can last hundreds of years. It is fire-resistant, and can endure floods, hurricanes, and tornadoes. The only downside is that the cost of installation is high.
Metal
Metal is durable and can outlive most of the other materials. It is fire resistant, pest resistant, and does not rot or mold due to water damage. Depending on the metal used, however, it can be expensive, may corrode, and change due to exposure to weather.
Conclusion
There are many more options available in the market and the list above is a small one that discusses only the ones that are widely used. The decision should be made after due consideration, and after thorough research.
Also read: Expert Tips To Make Your Walls Live Long!
