Description

Siding or cladding, provides an aesthetic and functional role in residential construction. The diversity of materials such as wood, masonry or vinyl affect the overall architectural appearance of the building while their protective properties keep the internal structures sheltered from external wind and moisture. Most siding offers minimal energy savings through insulation. When selecting siding, consider the cost, aesthetics, durability, maintenance requirements, and environmental impacts.

Urban Edge Guidelines

• Compare life-cycle costs for siding, including first cost, maintenance costs, and replacement costs to determine the best selection
• Use low maintenance materials that do not require regular painting or staining
• Use products that come from sustainable sources to those made with recycled waste material to reduce overall environmental impacts
• The material should provide good urban design aesthetics that complement the surrounding buildings.

Spotlight on Urban Edge

Older Urban Edge properties were developed using brick. The new Egleston Crossing development used brick, Hardiplank, and metal panels.

Options and Criteria Review

Siding Options

• Brick
• Fiber Cement
• Polyvinyl chloride (PVC)
• Wood (Clapboard)

Click here to learn more.

Resources

General

• “Building Green, Concept or Reality?” Home Energy Magazine Online, November-December 2000.
• The Vinyl Institute 
•  “Wood for Building Green, a Practical Guide.” (pdf). Metafore, 2003.
• “Siding”. MN Green Affordable Housing Guide.

References