Custom Home Exteriors: Choosing the Right Materials for Durability

Step right up to the realm of bespoke home exteriors, where precision is key and where the materials you choose can have an enduring effect on the longevity and beauty of your structure. If you want your house to last, you need to give careful thought to the materials you use for the outside.

We go into the important decisions that homeowners have to make when choosing roofing, siding, trim, and accent materials. Come with us as we explore the many possibilities, analyse what goes into purchasing decisions, and provide examples from the actual world.

As we walk you through the complex process of selecting materials that will both improve the aesthetic value of your home and make it weatherproof for many years to come, you will discover the ideal combination of design and durability.

Types Of Exterior Materials

Timeless Stucco

Using a lath substrate, traditional stucco is traditionally applied in three coats using a mixture of sand and Portland cement. The colour coat, the last layer, can have a range of earth tones applied to it. Because of this, stucco is a great choice for both urban and rural areas.

The Western and Southwestern states have the highest concentration of stucco buildings due to the considerable influence of Spanish and Mexican architecture in these regions. In chilly or humid climates, it is also popular.

Synthetic Stucco

Synthetic stucco, which is acrylic and applied as an EIFS component, differs from conventional stucco in that it is not painted on. The stucco is sprayed either by hand or with a sprayer, and it is held in place by a wire mesh grid and an insulation board layer.

The use of EIFS systems dates back to the 1950s. However, any moisture that manages to penetrate behind them would cause harm to the home's sheathing due to how waterproof they are. A drainage system is now required for EIFS siding to avoid this.

Vinyl

Vinyl siding—made of synthetic PVC resin—came on the scene in the late 1950s to supplant wood and aluminium siding. One reason for its appeal is that it is inexpensive, lightweight, and easy to install. Additionally, the quality has been steadily improving over time.

Vinyl siding is available in a wide range of styles, colours, and thicknesses, in addition to the more traditional clapboard profiles. Stone, brick, or wood grain patterns are all possible with some types of vinyl siding. Vinyl lacks insulation on its own. However, insulated vinyl siding is an option.

Fiber Cement

Austrian Ludwig Hatscheck invented fibre cement in the late 19th century; it wasn't until the 1980s that it became economically viable. Fibre cement, which mimics the look of real wood, brick, or stone, is made by reinforcing cellulose fibres from trees with Portland cement, sand, and water.

Manufacturers like James Hardie and GAF offer fibre cement siding in a variety of forms, including panels, slats, and shingles. It is commonly fastened to plywood siding that is covered with house wrap using screws or nails.

Brick And Brick Veneer

Brick, one of the most enduring and cherished materials for exterior construction, is typically created by shaping, drying, and then firing clay at high temperatures in a kiln. It is possible to coat, glaze, or texturise brick.

The outside walls of a brick house are sturdy enough to bear the house's weight; therefore, the traditional method of framing is unnecessary. In contrast, brick veneers cannot support their own weight and must be fastened to sheathing that is already in place on conventional framing.

Natural Wood 

One of the most classic and aesthetically pleasing materials for house exteriors is natural wood. Imagine mansions in the Cape Cod style, manors in the South, and San Francisco Victorians. The following wood siding options are among the most common.

Cedar shingles, horizontal clapboard or shiplap planks, and vertical battens and boards are the most prevalent forms. Clear coatings, stains, or paints can be applied to wood.

Engineered Wood

Plywood panels and composite panels/slats are the two main types of engineered wood siding. The second type is crafted using resin and crushed wood chips or strands.

T1-11 and other similar plywood panels often imitate vertical boards with their rough-sawn faces and grooves. Sheathing wrapped with house wrap is fastened directly to the panels using screws or nails.

Installing composite wood boards horizontally is similar to installing real wood boards. Some products, like Collins Truwood or LG's SmartSide, have a longer warranty of up to 30 years.

Natural And Synthetic Stone

For the majority of homeowners, natural stone—whether it be granite, slate, limestone, or travertine—is not a viable alternative. However, you can have the same chic appearance using synthetic stone veneers for much less money.

Materials such as sand, cement, and aggregate can be used to create synthetic stones. Both in appearance and texture, they are lifelike. Polyurethane stone veneers can be formed into panels for more convenient installation.

Adding stone veneers to a foundation, chimney, or accent wall is a common way to enhance the look of a different siding material. The classic stone beauty and durability can be yours without breaking the bank by going the full stone route.

Metal

For an industrial-chic look, you could go for corrugated galvanised steel siding, but aluminium is far more popular. The most common types of aluminium siding are horizontal slats, which are installed similarly to vinyl siding, or panels that resemble vertical slats.

Lightweight and resistant to rust, aluminium siding is a great choice. Many manufacturers incorporate an insulating backing to improve its insulation properties, as it is not effective on its own. Metal siding is low-maintenance and can be painted.

Considerations For Material Choice

Upfront Cost And Life Expectancy

The natural inclination when trying to construct a bespoke home on a tight budget is to choose the most inexpensive material possible. Cheap materials often need replacing down the road, and more costly ones may not necessarily be the best fit for your needs. You should think about the anticipated cost of the new construction materials as well as the initial investment required to acquire them.

You would choose material A if it were $6/unit and material B was $8/unit, provided that both materials matched your aesthetic standards. However, material A will end up costing more in the long term if it requires replacement every three years instead of material B's five-year need. If you want to enjoy your custom house for a long time with minimal maintenance, you should think about these points.

Efficient Use Of Energy

The energy efficiency of less expensive construction materials is low. Take into account the level of insulation included in your home's wiring. In some cases, the upfront cost of energy savings will be more than covered by the cost of a more costly material. Reduced power, gas, and heat consumption is a direct result of using energy-efficient materials.

Aesthetics

Which rooms in the house should you emphasise the most? Which environmentally friendly construction materials are most appealing to you? Think about the neighbourhood around your house. Of all the things that should be considered, your personal preference is paramount. Consider the aesthetics, functionality, energy efficiency, and budget while making your material selection for your custom home.

Climate

Environmental factors are also important when selecting high-quality materials. A few things to look at are the typical weather conditions, such as the amount of light, ventilation, rain, and snowfall. You should choose a building material that adapts well to the changing environment in California. Materials' properties alter and adapt to changing weather patterns.

Maintenance

Choose materials that are simple to handle and care for at all times. Preserving the building's appearance for an extended period can be achieved through maintenance. Compared to the standard and inexpensive materials, good ecologically friendly construction materials typically require less upkeep. Researching the durability and quality of the material is crucial for top-notch building construction, as it enhances the property's value over time.

Performance

Pick materials that can hold up under the weight of the structure. For instance, before settling on a roofing material, be sure the building's framework can handle it. You should be able to live comfortably without any unsavoury consequences, including chemical emissions from materials, thanks to the substance.

What Are The Qualities Of Home Building Material?

Watertight Warranties

If you choose less expensive building supplies, the warranty will either not be available or will be very limited in its coverage. When shopping for high-quality materials, though, be sure to read the fine print on any guarantees against failure or flaws.

Proven Track Records

You may be sure that high-quality construction materials have undergone rigorous testing to ensure they meet or exceed all expectations in terms of strength, durability, and practicality. In order to back up their claims, certain environmentally friendly construction materials have undergone rigorous laboratory testing. I can provide you with numerous credible references to back this up. However, the result isn't necessarily the same when you choose the most affordable solutions.

Improved Project Deadlines

Choosing low-quality materials might have an impact on a home improvement project. It is possible that some of the items you buy won't work with a well-constructed house, in which case you'll have to return them to the store. If this happens, the project as a whole will be slowed down.

More Eco-Friendly

Choosing high-quality construction materials increases the likelihood that they are produced in an environmentally conscious way. You may expect these eco-friendly construction materials to endure a longer period before needing replacement.

The time and energy you put into it now will pay off in the end. Also, using natural, safe items is perfect if you care about the environment because ecological building materials reduce emissions of dangerous gases.

How To Choose Materials For Your Custom Home 

Style Of Home

The home's style is one of the most important considerations when selecting materials for a custom house. It's important to use materials that complement the house's architecture. If you're constructing a Mountain contemporary house, for instance, incorporating both wood and stone accents will accentuate the straightforward contemporary style.

Conversely, timber-frame type homes are characterised by their classic style, which is accentuated by traditional materials like circle-sawn floors and timbers. If you want your house to feel cohesive no matter what design you choose, it's important to follow the rules of that style.

Location

Your material choices should also be influenced by the location of your structure. The building will seem more like an extension of your house if it takes design cues from the natural scenery and blends in with it.

This attitude served as the basis for the circle-sawn Douglas fir material offered by Marks Lumber. The proprietor, Steve Marks, set out to create a distinctive "Montana look" that would be at home in any Montana house by using natural finish products that celebrated the natural beauty and untamed nature of the region.

Standard Of The Best

Quality is an important consideration when selecting materials for your custom home, even if style is usually the guiding aspect. If you're looking for a way to ensure that the materials used in your custom home are of high quality, building it from the ground up offers you the advantage over off-market or spec homes. Using high-quality materials gives you confidence that what you've chosen is both aesthetically pleasing and structurally sound.

Energy Efficiency

Choosing building materials gives you the opportunity to think about more than just style and quality; you can also evaluate how efficient those materials are. Your home's energy efficiency can be improved by making smart material choices. Wood, being a natural insulator and one of the most energy-efficient siding options, can help you save money on your energy bill if you choose that material for your siding or panelling.

Environmental Impact

These days, thinking about how our actions will affect the environment is crucial. This is particularly the case when constructing a house. To get the material that is best for you and the environment, it is important to research suppliers and learn about the environmental effects of various construction materials.

For those concerned about climate change, wood is a great material to choose because its production results in far lower emissions of greenhouse gases compared to those of concrete and steel. Furthermore, wood helps mitigate carbon emissions all the way through its lifecycle by sequestering carbon until it decomposes or burns.

Conclusion

Custom home exteriors require careful consideration of materials to ensure longevity and beauty. Traditional stucco, a blend of sand and Portland cement, is popular in urban and rural areas due to its influence on Spanish and Mexican architecture.

Synthetic stucco, an acrylic material applied as an EIFS component, is not painted on and is held in place by a wire mesh grid and insulation board layer. Vinyl siding, made of synthetic PVC resin, was introduced in the late 1950s and is inexpensive, lightweight, and easy to install.

Fiber cement, invented by Austrian Ludwig Hatscheck in the late 19th century, mimics the look of real wood, brick, or stone. It is commonly fastened to plywood siding with house wrap. Brick veneers are a classic and aesthetically pleasing material for exterior construction, but they cannot support their own weight and must be fastened to conventional framing.

Engineered wood siding includes plywood panels and composite panels/slats, while natural and synthetic stone veneers offer a chic appearance at a lower cost. Metal siding, like corrugated galvanized steel siding, is popular for its lightweight and resistant properties. Many manufacturers incorporate an insulating backing to improve insulation properties.

In conclusion, selecting the right materials for custom home exteriors is crucial for improving the aesthetic value and durability of your structure.

When building a custom home, it is essential to consider several factors when selecting materials. First, consider the upfront cost and life expectancy of the materials, as less expensive materials may require more maintenance in the long run. Energy efficiency is another important factor to consider, as it can lead to reduced power, gas, and heat consumption.

Aesthetics should also be considered, as well as the climate and environmental factors. Choose materials that adapt well to changing weather patterns and are easy to handle and maintain. High-quality materials typically require less upkeep, making them more environmentally friendly and enhancing the property's value over time.

Quality materials include waterproof warranties, proven track records, improved project deadlines, and more eco-friendly options. High-quality materials are produced in an environmentally conscious way, reducing emissions of dangerous gases.

Choosing the right materials for your custom home should also consider the style of the house, location, and standard of the best. Building from the ground up offers the advantage over off-market or spec homes, as it ensures that the materials used are of high quality.

Energy efficiency is another important consideration when choosing building materials. Choose materials that are not only aesthetically pleasing but also energy-efficient, such as wood, which is a natural insulator and one of the most energy-efficient siding options.

Lastly, consider the environmental impact of the materials you choose. Research suppliers and learn about the environmental effects of various construction materials to find the best material for your needs and the environment. By considering these factors, you can create a custom home that is both functional and environmentally friendly.

Content Summary

• Dive into the world of bespoke home exteriors, where precision and material choices define longevity and beauty.
• Careful consideration of exterior materials is crucial for a house that stands the test of time.
• Explore decisions on roofing, siding, trim, and accents, and learn about real-world examples.
• Navigate the complex process of selecting materials for improved aesthetics and weatherproofing.
• Timeless stucco, applied traditionally in three coats, is an excellent choice for urban and rural areas.
• Synthetic stucco, acrylic-based and applied as EIFS, offers a modern alternative with waterproofing considerations.
• Vinyl siding, introduced in the 1950s, is affordable, lightweight, and now comes in various styles and thicknesses.
• Fiber cement, invented in the late 19th century, mimics wood, brick, or stone and offers durability.
• Brick, a classic and enduring material, requires no traditional framing for its load-bearing capabilities.
• Natural wood siding, including cedar shingles and clapboard planks, offers a timeless aesthetic.
• Engineered wood, in the form of plywood or composite panels, provides durability and variety.
• Natural and synthetic stone options offer a chic appearance with cost-effective solutions.
• Corrugated galvanized steel or aluminum siding provides an industrial-chic look with rust resistance.
• Consider upfront costs and life expectancy for the most effective long-term investment in construction materials.
• Evaluate the energy efficiency of materials, considering insulation and long-term cost savings.
• Aesthetics play a crucial role in material selection, influenced by personal preferences and neighborhood considerations.
• Environmental factors, including climate, should guide the choice of materials that adapt well to changing conditions.
• Choose materials that are easy to maintain for long-lasting appearances and enhanced property value.
• Select materials that can hold up under the weight of the structure for comfortable and safe living.
• Consider warranties, proven track records, and adherence to project deadlines when choosing materials.
• Opting for high-quality materials increases eco-friendliness and reduces emissions of dangerous gases.
• Consider the style of your home, ensuring materials complement the architecture for a cohesive look.
• Location should influence material choices, blending the structure with the natural surroundings.
• Quality is paramount, ensuring that the materials used are both aesthetically pleasing and structurally sound.
• Energy efficiency considerations extend beyond style, impacting long-term savings on energy bills.
• Evaluate the environmental impact of construction materials, researching suppliers and their practices.
• Wood, as a natural insulator, can contribute to improved energy efficiency and lower greenhouse gas emissions.
• Synthetic stucco's application method involves spraying and attaching it to a wire mesh grid.
• Vinyl siding's popularity stems from its affordability, lightweight nature, and ease of installation.
• Fiber cement, mimicking wood and stone, is commonly fastened to plywood siding with screws or nails.
• Brick veneers, unlike traditional bricks, require attachment to existing sheathing for support.
• Natural wood siding options include cedar shingles, horizontal clapboard, and vertical battens.
• Engineered wood includes plywood and composite panels, offering variety and durability.
• Synthetic stone veneers mimic natural stone in appearance and texture, offering cost-effective alternatives.
• Aluminum siding, popular for its industrial-chic look, is lightweight, rust-resistant, and low-maintenance.
• Upfront costs and life expectancy considerations help make informed decisions on material selection.
• Energy efficiency considerations impact the long-term sustainability and cost-effectiveness of materials.
• Aesthetics, personal preferences, and neighborhood context guide material choices for custom homes.
• Climate considerations influence the adaptability of materials to changing environmental conditions.
• Maintenance requirements play a crucial role in the longevity and appearance of construction materials.
• Choose materials that can withstand the weight of the structure to ensure safety and durability.
• Warranties, proven track records, and adherence to project timelines are crucial factors in material selection.
• High-quality construction materials contribute to eco-friendliness and reduced emissions of harmful gases.
• Consider the architectural style of your home to ensure materials complement the overall design.
• The location of your structure should influence material choices to blend with the natural environment.
• Emphasize quality in material selection for both aesthetic appeal and structural integrity.
• Energy efficiency considerations extend beyond style, impacting long-term savings on energy bills.
• Assess the environmental impact of construction materials, considering sustainability and emissions.
• Wood, as a natural insulator, contributes to improved energy efficiency and lower greenhouse gas emissions.
• Synthetic stone veneers offer a cost-effective way to achieve the aesthetic of natural stone.