Choosing the Right Siding for Your Home

Choosing the Right Siding for Your Home

In Quebec, homeowners have a wide array of exterior siding options to choose from. And it can be quite difficult to decide on the right one! Here are the main pros and cons of each type to help guide you. 

Vinyl: A Popular Choice 

This is one of the most popular siding materials. It comes in many colours and textures. It is affordable, easily installed, shock and scratch resistant and lightweight. However, if not properly attached to the wall, it can buckle. It can also contract below certain temperatures and fade under full sun exposure.

Aluminum: Great Versatility 

This is a product worth considering because it can be painted in many colours. It holds up to wind gusts and climate change. It does not contract and is durable. However, aluminum cannot withstand shocks very well. In recent years, it has become the siding of choice for contemporary home, installed horizontally and in combination with other materials.

Wood: A Classic Material

This type of siding will increase your property’s value. It is affordable and beautiful. Use galvanized or aluminum nails to prevent rust. It comes in a range of colours and textures and can be painted or stained. It will, however, make your home more vulnerable in the event of a fire. It also needs to be treated with a mould-prevention product and given a new coat of flax oil every five years.

Wood-Composite Panels: Very Practical

These are engineered wood (wood fibre, resin and wax) exterior panels that do not require any maintenance. They imitate the look of wood quite successfully and are available in many colours, patterns and textures. It is a green and sustainable product that is far more resistant to moisture and sun damage than regular wood.

Fibre Cement Boards: A Controversial Option

This combination of cement, sand and cellulose is available in smooth or textured planks and panels. It is weather and fire resistant. The Ordre des architectes does not recommend its use, however. It is prone to cracking, fading and flaking. 

Brick Siding: The Most Durable 

A popular option, this material offers good soundproofing and durability. It’s sturdy and doesn’t require a lot of maintenance. It is expensive, though, and can be subject to issues such as frost boil (outward bulging of bricks). The house’s foundation must also be thick enough to bear the weight of the bricks.

Mortarless Bricks: The Standard Choice 

Made of calcite and concrete, mortarless bricks are available in several colours. They are very common in neighbourhoods built in the 1990s. The laying process is simpler than for other types of bricks, but it is still recommended that you hire a professional. They require only minimal maintenance.

Acrylic Coatings: Not Eco-Friendly 

This material is composed of concrete or expanded polystyrene mixed into an acrylic base. It is very weather resistant but must be applied by a professional. It is also polluting.

Stone: For a Stately Look

Many homeowners go for the expensive option of covering their residence with stone. It has a modern look and is durable. To reduce costs, consider using stone over only half of your home’s front surface and vinyl siding on the rest. Low on price, but high on style!

As you can see, there is so much to choose from! When deciding on an exterior siding material, make sure it fits your home’s style and offers good value for money. Also, this is not a good DIY project unless you are an expert as improper installation can lead to water infiltration problems. Good luck with your shopping!

RE/MAX Québec

By RE/MAX Québec

By RE/MAX Québec

A leader in the real estate industry since 1982, the RE/MAX network brings together the most efficient brokers.