Choosing Commercial Siding

When choosing commercial siding for industrial, multi-family or mixed-use buildings, you will want to consider how much it will cost, how easy it will be to maintain and the unique features a particular type of siding offers. Siding for a commercial property can greatly improve its appearance, giving your business or mixed-use complex an appeal that will help the bottom line.

Since you will be working with a high volume of siding in comparison to a residential project, before you start, check local building codes for any siding material restrictions or permits, inspections, etc. that might be required. The commercial siding you choose should also reflect the nature of your business and enhance the character of your enterprise.

While vinyl siding is prone to cracking in cold temperatures, it is a very popular material for commercial, industrial and multi-family properties for several reasons. It is available in a wide range of colours, never needs painting and is cost effective. It is also durable, easy to install and requires minimal maintenance.

Aluminum siding is another popular choice for commercial siding. It expands and contracts much less than vinyl siding and requires minimal maintenance. Aluminum commercial siding is available in horizontal and vertical panels. It is available in a variety of styles and colours.

Gaining in popularity as a siding material, fiber cement is becoming a viable option. In comparison to vinyl and aluminum siding, fiber cement, also called concrete siding or concrete board, is more expensive, but tends to be more durable, strong and versatile. It is not prone to common weathering issues such as wearing, rotting, blistering or cracking as is the concern with most other kinds of siding materials.

Siding for commercial buildings has advanced considerably over the years. Today many manufacturers have responded to the demanding requirements of industrial, multi-family and mixed-use buildings by producing commercial siding materials that are high performance, flexible, cost-efficient and easy to maintain.