Choosing Claddings
Cladding in housing construction means what we cover up things with. The roof cladding can be shingles, roofing tiles, or slate; wall cladding can be plaster or gypsum board or paneling; exterior cladding could be stucco, brick, clapboards or stone. Deciding what cladding we want and need is usually a matter of the best we can get for the what we can afford.
We must consider the type of house we have. One would not put vinyl siding on an historic property, nor textured plastered walls in a cottage by the lake.
Usually cladding is chosen from materials that are local or were local at one time. If an area is rich in lumber, the cladding will probably be wood. If stone quarries are easily accessible, stone cladding is widely used.
When choosing roofing, you must consider your budget, but also consider the long term costs. An architectural shingle roof lasts, on average, about ten years longer than regular shingles. A slate roof will usually last you for the life of your house.
Exterior cladding can be a money saver as well. A vinyl exterior never needs painting. Cedar or cypress siding is lovely as it ages, but can be pricey. Stucco is a great cladding, but can need patching. Consider brick or stone siding. It is expensive, but offers some insulation from weather extremes, so can save you money over the years. And it never needs painting.
Interior cladding is a matter of what style goes with your house style or your personal taste. Gypsum board goes up easily, is easily painted and can be patched, if damaged, or can be painted cheaply and easily if you wish. Wood paneling can set the character of a room and looks great in a den or library. Plaster is expensive, can crack, but lasts for decades if properly applied. The textures of plaster when done by an expert are exquisite in the right house.
No matter your choice of claddings for your house or business, pick what you are comfortable with and what you can afford. It defines your style and you are the one who must live with it.