Most Common Siding Options for Building in BC
When building in British Columbia, choosing the right siding is essential for durability and aesthetics. Our varied climate demands materials that withstand diverse weather while enhancing your property's beauty. In this post, we'll explore the top four siding options ideal for building on the Sunshine Coast, British Columbia - considering resilience, maintenance, budget, and visual appeal. Whether renovating or starting new construction, these siding choices will ensure your building stands strong and looks great for years to come.
Image via Canva
Real Wood
Cedar is your best choice for exterior siding here on the Sunshine Coast, due to its natural durability and resistance to our damp, coastal climate. This wood species is highly resistant to moisture, decay, and insect damage, making it ideal for the wet conditions. Cedar's natural oils act as preservatives, enhancing its longevity and reducing the need for frequent maintenance. Additionally, cedar's thermal properties provide excellent insulation, helping to maintain energy efficiency in homes. Its warm, rich aesthetic also complements the natural beauty of the BC coastline, making it a popular and practical choice for siding in this region.
From a budget perspective, you’re going to spend more for Cedar siding. Material costs are higher than alternative siding options and you will also need to consider the installation and handling time; sealing, painting or staining; then the additional maintenance required over it’s lifetime.
Of course, like any siding product - Cedar comes in a variety of styles and grades that can affect the costs associated. Make sure to discuss these options with your designer, architect, builder and/or suppliers to learn more.
Abodo Vulcan Cladding finished in silvery tones of Sioo:x - https://www.abodowood.com/projects/cascading-volumes-gibsons-landing-canada
Thermally Modified Wood Products
If you like the look of real wood siding, but are worried about the maintenance or if it can withstand the wet weather, a thermally modified product may be right for you. It's more durable, stable, and weather resistant than real-wood alternativves. Thermally modified wood is more resistant to decay, rot, and insect damage compared to untreated wood and can withstand the heavy rainfall as well as salty coastal air - making it particularly suitable for the climate here on the Sunshine Coast. This also makes it less labour intensive to maintain and less likely to deteriorate as quickly than natural, untreated wood options. These benefits are all thanks to the thermal modification process, where the wood is heated to around 400+ degrees in an oxygen-free environment (exact process and whether or not the product is kiln dried, and exact temperatures may vary depending on wood species, intended application and producer). This process and removing the moisture content from the wood reduces it’s tendency to warp, shrink, or swell with changes in moisture, ensuring the siding remains stable over time. Bonus - because the process uses only heat and steam, without chemicals, making it an environmentally friendly choice.
Pros:
Durability
Lower Maintenance
Pest resistance
Longevity
Eco-Friendly
Aesthetically appealing
Cons:
Higher in cost
Decreased flexibility requires sharp blades for cutting and cutting may be more challenging
Despite durability against weather and pests, it’s structural bending strength is decreased, making it best suited for non-load-bearing applications such as decking, cladding, wall paneling, accent walls, doors etc
Image via Canva
What is Fiber Cement siding? Fiber cement boards or siding materials are made up of simple ingredients - cement, sand, water, and cellulose fibers (may vary slightly based on the maufacturer). The reason it’s commonly referred to as “Hardie Board” is because the most commonly known brand here in BC is made by James Hardie - who’s formula includes additives that enhance the performance of this product. It’s become widely known and used over the past 10-20 years (although it’s history dates back to the early 20th century). Although the pricetag may seem high compared to vinyl, you’re receiving a better value (in our, and most builder’s, opinions).
Pros:
Durability
Fire Resistance
Low Maintenance
Wide variety of styles available
Longevity
Eco-Friendly
Cons:
Higher initial cost in comparison to Vinyl siding
Heavier and more difficult to handle than some other siding options
Requires specialized tools and professional installation (we would recommend hiring the pros anyways!)
May require some periodic maintenance and could crack if not installed properly or if subjected to significant impact
Image via Canva
Vinyl
Vinyl has been around since the 1950’s, and it’s made some drastic improvements since then. While it’s easy and simple to clean, it doesn’t offer the same longevity as competing options such as cement fibre board.
Pros:
Affordability
No painting required (or refinishing)
Ease of install
Wide variety of styles available
Readily available at building supply companies, making repairs or additions potentially less-stressful and quick turnaround
Fire resistant
Rust, rot and insect-proof
Cons:
Fades quicker than alternative options, depending on UV exposure
Could hide potential moisture or water issues (sounds like a “pro”, but you may not realize an issue is present allowing it to worsen)
Potential splitting and cracking over time
Not environmentally friendly (greenhouse gases, sulfur dioxide and carcinogens are produced when vinyl is being fabricated)
Not a top design choice, therefore a drawback for potential buyers if listing your home
Planning an exterior upgrade to your home? Email us for a complimentary site inspection at info@habetinhomes.com - ask for Taryn or Michal! Or contact Michal by phone - (778) 886 1163
(Michal is pronounced “Mee-how”, just FYI!)
