Exterior finish materials are expected to protect the house from the elements while providing an attractive appearance. They must prevent rain and snow from penetrating the building and causing moisture damage. Exterior finishes must be durable enough to resist normal expansion and contraction due to temperature changes, minor impacts from people and objects that can occur from everyday activities and premature deterioration from sunlight exposure. Repairing or replacing exterior wall finishes will help protect your home, preserve the durability and structure and make it more attractive.

Proper maintenance of exterior finish materials prevent water from infiltrating the interior structure of the building, damaging insulating material and other wall components and creating additional costs.

Make sure that the exterior siding is at least six (6) inches above the soil.

Types of exterior finis materials

Vinyl – This type of exterior finish is well known for being easy to install and maintain, for resisting to impact, pollutants and harmful rays of the sun.

Aluminum – Being the oldest type of finish material, aluminum is known for being very robust, resistant and efficient.

CanExel – CanExel wood fiber panels are suitable for any taste. It has gained in popularity, is very affordable, easy to install, not to mention that it is very durable and requires no maintenance.

Fibrocement – This new product is very resistant. It is made of cellulose fibers mixed with sand and cement. Fibrocement is sold in panels. These are quite heavy and do not deteriorate. This material is both stable and noncombustible. Fibrocement is available in a wide range of styles imitating wood or concrete. Fibrocement panels are suitable for residential and commercial buildings.

Wood – Wood requires maintenance, and nail heads must be repainted regularly.

Brick and stone – Brick and stone resist the effects of time and fashion. Given their aesthetic properties, durability, level of resistance to shocks and temperature fluctuations, brick and stone are noble finish materials that add value to all construction types (commercial, industrial, institutional and residential).

Water damage

• Replace shingles when they show signs of ageing and corners begin to curl upward or downward, or or worn, and in the case of flat roofs, if you notice that areas are poorly drained.
• Replace water heaters after 12 years.
• Adjust the grade around the foundation so that it slopes away from the house.
• Make sure that drains are fitted with operational non-return valves.
• Seal cracks in foundation walls and brick facing.
• Replace cracked caulking around doors and windows.