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First impressions are always the most important aspect of any situation, from meeting someone new to exploring your potential new living space. Renters are always on the lookout for how their new living space conveys their personal aesthetic. If you are keeping up with the trends, you’ll want to be aware of the current siding and exterior looks that potential renters are leaning towards. Below we’ve put together a small list of five potential exterior materials to make your multifamily renovation pop. 

Vinyl

Vinyl is one of the most universal sidings used on commercial buildings today. Vinyl is easy to install, inexpensive, and very low maintenance. Did you know that vinyl siding will never need to be painted? It is also strong against cold, wet climates and even the coastal air! Of course, this all seems grand in the scheme of things, but there is a small catch – vinyl resembles traditional clapboard or lap wood siding from a distance and once you get up close, many people believe it isn’t nearly as appealing. This type of siding is also known for its flexibility which means it follows the exterior wall contours and even rattles in the winds. 

Wood 

Praised for its look as a natural material, wood siding is a rising favorite. This siding has many different forms such as traditional clapboards, board-and-batten, shingles, and tongue-and-groove planks. Wood siding of high-quality is durable and long-lasting if it is properly maintained. This siding must be painted or stained regularly, for if it isn’t, the siding can become vulnerable to rot, weathering, and damage from the sun and insects. An additional drawback is the higher cost.

Fiber Cement 

If wood siding is not your cup of tea, fiber-cement siding is the best alternative for this. If it’s painted, the siding looks similar to traditional wood clapboard or shingle siding. This type of siding comes in sheets that mimic vertical board or plywood siding. Fiber-cement is considered to be an option that’s on the lower side of the maintenance spectrum. The material itself is less prone to weather and moisture damage than wood and it will not contract and expand much as wood does. 

Brick 

The most expensive standard option for siding is natural brick. Brick is traditionally used because of its solid and traditional look. Brick is also one of the lower maintenance sidings. Did you know that brick is fireproof, rot-proof, and insect-proof? However, keep in mind that brick siding can crack due to excessive movement or shifting in the walls or building foundation. 

Stucco 

One of the oldest siding materials is stucco and it’s known for its high durability and memorable appearance. Cement-based stucco is applied to wood or masonry walls in three coats. The topcoat consists of the finished color of the stucco. Stucco is another siding material that can be painted, but this can cause an unnecessary regular maintenance issue.

Interested in renovating the exterior of your multifamily property? Contact Alterra Multifamily Renovations by giving us a call at 615-438-5734 or by visiting our website.