Home Exteriors and Their Pros and Cons

Whether you are renovating your current home, or are looking to build your dream home, the type of exterior you choose for your home will determine the overall look and feel of the home, as well as providing your home with protection from the elements. Once you decide the overall look you want for your house, then it is time to take into account a list of other factors, such as cost, material durability, and installation. It may seem a bit overwhelming at first, but we are here to lay out the pros and cons of the different home exterior styles:

Brick Exterior

Brick exteriors are typically more durable and require less maintenance compared to other home exterior materials. Brick is also very versatile, and comes in many shapes and sizes.

Pros:

Low maintenance

Lasts a long time

Cons:

High price of material and installation

Labor intensive installation

Log

A log exterior will give your home a rustic, cabin look. In the right setting, a log house looks amazing.

Pros:

Can be long lasting if high quality wood is used

Classic look

Cons:

High cost

Logs need regular treatment to prevent deterioration and insect infestation

Metal

Metal exteriors are gaining in popularity due to their versatility and durability. Metal can give your home a new, modern look.

Pros:

Long lasting and durable

Fire resistance

Keeps home cool during summer

Cons:

Does not retain heat in the winter

May need repainting every few years

Depending on metal type, may increase installation cost

 

Stone

Stone provides your home with a natural, durable exterior. Due to the high cost of stone and installation, some homeowners may choose a stone veneer to give the same look

Pros:

Durable

Weather resistant

Gives the home a more natural look

Cons:

High cost

Installation can be difficult and expensive

Stucco

Stucco is a mix of cement, lime and sand. Stucco can be applied to wooden or brick surfaces to give a clean, uniform look.

Pros:

Long lasting

Provides great insulation

Fire resistant

Cons:

Doesn’t work well in humid climates

High initial cost

Vinyl Siding

Vinyl siding is one of the most popular exterior materials on the market today due to its easy installation, durability, and low cost.

Pros:

Low maintenance

Comes in many styles and colors

Easy installation

Cons:

Can look synthetic and too much like plastic for some people

Can be damaged by extreme weather

If you are thinking of remodeling your home, or want to build your dream home, contact us for a free estimate today.