Exterior walls?
Question:we are renovating our house and building an extra storey on the back of our home, what is the cheapest exterior wall product? we live in australia, we are thinking of using vinyl cladding but were told brick could work out as cheap. Anyone who knows this stuff please reply... Thanks for your help!
Answers:
You should not just consider the initial cost of building, but also the cost of heating and cooling. Insulation factors in to make these costs worth considering, because you will be paying higher energy costs for the rest of the time you live in this house. Brick is a good insulator, and it is also strong. You should know the insulation rating on all of the possibilities you are considering. If you go with vinyl, you should insulate the interior of this wall between the studs. Personally, I like the bricks, but you did not say what kind, ot the dimensions, so it's hard to be of more help. Once you have more information about the materials you are considering, go to google, or ask.com and look for additional information. Don't just trust the place trying to sell you these materials. Do your homework, and trust no one.
if its a second floor addition,or any addition for that matter,it is best to match as closely as you can the existing exterior finish.In my opinion if you can point and say"look at the addition"it wasn't properly done but that's up to you..
In the states,vinyl is the cheapest way but looks it.If brick is anywhere in the ball park,price wise,go with it if that's the look you want
It is 2007 and anything built will be up to the latest codes,which include insulation
Check out NovaBrik products. It is a "no mortar" brick system, that goes on, very much like siding. You install batten strips, and screw every few rows of bricks to them. The bricks interlock, and can be put on as new construction, renovations, anywhere. The company has many options available too, with colors, trim, etc. One big advantage is of course, you don't have to have bricklayer skills -- this is a product that lends itself to DIY very well. A brick ledge (concrete that extends below traditional brick walls, supporting the bricks) is not necessary with this product, as it attaches directly to the side of the home, via the batten strips. Insulation can be placed between the strips, too.
If you want the look of brick, but the ease of vinyl, check out the product.
Some other choices would be vinyl siding with a stone pattern (i.e limestone). This would not be as durable as the NovaBrik, but it would be easier to handle, and install.
Bottom dollar though, might actually be "green" lumber from a local sawmill, or perhaps, your own property. If you have a portable sawmill, and a ready supply of trees, you can cut your own wood siding, allow it to dry, then mill and finish it yourself.
If you want "fast and easy" then you will probably want some form of exterior grade plywood, and paint. You can purchase plywood siding that has grooves detailed into it, giving it a minimal design. Throw a little paint on it, and you're done.
Traditional vinyl siding would be the next fastest and easiest, in my opinion, and may or may not cost more than the plywood -- that really depends on the availability of each, in your area.
All siding types require some form of annual maintenance, whether it be re-sealing wood, repairs, or just cleaning.
Have Fun
More Related Questions & Answers...