10 Types of Exterior Cladding Material
What Are Exterior Claddings in Architecture
Let’s talk about exterior claddings—a key feature that goes beyond just making a building look good. In a nutshell, exterior claddings are protective and decorative layers that you’ll find attached to the outside of a building’s structure. Their main job is to protect your space from weather challenges like rain, wind, and those sudden temperature swings. Plus, they can boost the building’s energy efficiency and give it a unique personality. Depending on what you choose and how it’s installed, your cladding can also help with things like noise reduction and fire resistance.
Here in the U.S., it’s important to know that exterior cladding has to meet certain local building codes and standards set by groups like ASTM International. These rules make sure the materials you use will stand up to the test—meaning they’re durable, safe, and energy-efficient. Something else to keep in mind: the type of cladding you pick can impact your building’s insulation value (R-value), how much maintenance it’ll need, and even whether your project could qualify for LEED Certification, which is a big deal if you care about sustainable building practices.
Cladding isn’t just about looks or protection. It can actually play a part in your building’s structural integrity. For example, some systems act like a rainscreen, letting moisture escape and helping to prevent water from getting inside and causing damage. Many newer cladding systems are designed to work hand-in-hand with things like continuous insulation and air barriers, so you get even better energy performance. When you’re choosing a material, remember that it doesn’t just affect your curb appeal—it could also determine whether you meet local energy codes, fire safety rules, or insurance requirements. For example, in certain areas of the U.S. where wildfires are a risk, non-combustible materials might be required. If you’re near the coast, you’ll probably want something that stands up to salt and strong winds.
Types of Exterior Cladding
1. Aluminum
Aluminum cladding is a favorite in both commercial and residential projects, and for good reason. It’s lightweight, naturally resists corrosion, and brings a sleek, modern look to any building. You’ll see it in many curtain wall systems and ventilated facades, and it comes in a huge variety of colors and textures, so you can really customize your design.
Key benefits of aluminum cladding:
Easy to maintain: doesn’t attract pests, rot, or let moisture in.
Non-combustible: adds safety, especially in fire-prone areas.
Reflective surface: can help keep your building cooler by bouncing back sunlight.
Recyclable: a plus for projects aiming for LEED Certification.
You’ll find aluminum cladding on high-rises, schools, hospitals, and retail centers. It’s available in all sorts of panel types, including solid, perforated, or composite panels with insulation. Since it can be formed into unique shapes, it’s a go-to for more creative architectural designs. In the U.S., check the International Building Code (IBC) and any local requirements for things like fire safety and wind resistance. Aluminum cladding can also be paired with continuous insulation to help you meet or exceed energy code standards, making it a flexible choice for new builds or renovations.
2. Brick
If you want something classic and reliable, brick cladding is worth considering. It’s been a staple in U.S. architecture for generations, thanks to its durability, fire resistance, and timeless style. Made from fired clay, brick offers a variety of colors and textures and provides excellent thermal mass—meaning it helps keep your building’s temperature steady.
Maintenance is straightforward: check mortar joints and repoint as needed.
Stands up well to weather and pests.
Installation can be labor-intensive and pricier than some options, but the longevity and classic appeal are often worth it.
Brick’s reputation for lasting over a century is well-earned—many brick-clad buildings in the U.S. have stood for generations. Insurance companies often recognize its fire resistance, sometimes offering lower premiums. You can choose a full brick veneer or thinner brick panels attached to a substrate, which can reduce weight and speed up installation. Your choice may depend on budget, wall requirements, and local codes regarding earthquakes or high winds. For extra energy efficiency, brick can also be used with exterior insulation finishing systems (EIFS).
3. Stone
Stone cladding brings a natural, upscale look that’s tough to beat in terms of longevity. Whether you go with granite, limestone, or slate, stone panels or veneers can give your building a luxurious vibe while offering solid structural protection.
Built to last and can handle just about any weather.
Heavy and usually more expensive to install.
Helps regulate indoor temperatures and offers fire resistance.
Maintenance is usually limited to cleaning and checking for cracks or moisture.
If you love that unique, natural look, stone is a great pick because no two pieces are exactly alike. In the U.S., standards like ASTM C568 for limestone or ASTM C616 for granite ensure quality. Manufactured stone veneer (MSV) is an option if you want the look without the weight or higher cost. Stone cladding can also be combined with cavity wall systems for drainage and insulation, making it suitable for both hot and cold climates.
4. Wood
Wood cladding is all about bringing warmth and character to your space, which is why it’s so popular for homes and even some commercial buildings. Common choices include cedar, redwood, and pine, arranged in various patterns to create the look you want.
Renewable resource and can be sourced sustainably.
Needs regular care: staining, painting, or sealing to protect from moisture, pests, and sun.
Provides moderate insulation, but may not suit every climate—especially humid or termite-prone areas.
Eco-conscious homeowners often choose wood certified by the Forest Stewardship Council (FSC). In wildfire-prone areas, local codes or Wildland-Urban Interface (WUI) guidelines might require fire-retardant treatments. Installation styles include lap siding, board-and-batten, or shingles. Engineered wood products, like cross-laminated timber (CLT) or wood-plastic composites, offer extra durability.
5. Concrete
Concrete cladding covers a lot of ground, from precast panels to fiber cement boards and even poured-in-place systems. If you need something strong, fire-resistant, and versatile in design, concrete is a solid option.
Known for durability and minimal upkeep.
Thermal mass helps keep your building energy-efficient.
Resistant to rot, mold, and pests.
Can be heavy, sometimes needing extra structural support.
Fiber cement siding is a popular type of concrete cladding, tough against fire, insects, and moisture—often used as a wood alternative in wildfire-prone areas. Precast panels with insulation can help you meet International Energy Conservation Code (IECC) standards. Concrete can also be finished with various textures or colors to match your style.
6. uPVC
If low maintenance and cost savings are high on your list, uPVC cladding might be the way to go. Unplasticized polyvinyl chloride is lightweight, easy to install, and comes in plenty of colors and profiles.
Stands up well to moisture, rot, and pests.
No painting or sealing required, but can get brittle from sun exposure and fade over time.
Decent insulation, though not the best, and less fire resistance than some materials.
uPVC is especially popular in single-family homes or renovations where budget and convenience are top priorities. It also resists air pollution and salty coastal air. In the U.S., it must meet ASTM D3679 standards. Some manufacturers offer uPVC with added insulation for better energy efficiency. Always check local fire codes and HOA rules, as some places limit the use of certain plastics on exteriors.
7. Glass
Glass cladding is a go-to for modern commercial buildings, especially when you want lots of natural light. You’ll see it in curtain walls and facades, with options for clear, tinted, or specially treated panels for privacy or energy savings.
Offers transparency and a modern look.
Non-combustible and easy to clean, but requires careful engineering for safety and insulation.
Regular cleaning and seal checks are important.
In the U.S., glass cladding must meet ASTM E1300 for structural performance and NFRC guidelines for energy efficiency. Insulated glass units (IGUs) with Low-E coatings and special gas fills are common for better insulation. Safety glass—like tempered or laminated panels—is required in areas with potential human impact. Glass facades can also be combined with sunshades, spandrel panels, or operable windows for extra comfort and energy savings.
8. Composite
Composite cladding is made from a mix of materials—often wood fibers, plastics, and resins—engineered to look good and last longer than natural materials alone.
Resists moisture, pests, and fading.
Requires less maintenance than natural wood.
Offers good insulation and is often made with recycled content.
Manufacturers test composite cladding to meet ASTM D7032 and ICC-ES standards. Many systems have interlocking profiles for water resistance and easy installation. Some products can help you earn LEED points for sustainability. Composite cladding is practical and attractive for homes, schools, and mixed-use developments.
9. Tile
If you’re looking for something decorative and protective, tile cladding is a solid option. Tiles can be made from ceramic, porcelain, or terracotta and come in a huge range of shapes, colors, and textures.
Especially valued for moisture resistance—great for wet or humid climates.
Easy to clean and maintain, but installation must be precise with proper waterproofing.
Durable and non-combustible, but can crack if hit or if the building shifts.
In the U.S., tile cladding should meet ANSI A137.1 standards, and installation should follow Tile Council of North America (TCNA) guidelines. Exterior tile projects may use drainage mats and vapor barriers. Porcelain tiles are especially good for outdoor use because they resist water and freezing temperatures. Tile cladding can also be teamed up with masonry or concrete for more durability.
10. Vinyl
Vinyl cladding is one of the most popular siding materials in the U.S., mainly because it’s affordable, easy to care for, and comes in lots of color options.
Lightweight and simple to install for new builds or updates.
Stands up well to moisture, pests, and rot.
Can crack in extreme cold or warp in high heat.
No painting required—just wash with water and mild soap.
Look for products that meet ASTM D3679 standards for quality. Some vinyl options have foam backing for better insulation and noise reduction. The color goes all the way through, so scratches are less noticeable, though darker shades can fade over time. Vinyl cladding comes in various profiles, including horizontal lap, vertical panels, and shake styles. Always check local building codes and HOA guidelines before deciding.
Find the Perfect Aluminum Cladding Solution for Your Project at aPlank
If you’re considering aluminum cladding for your project, it’s worth making sure your choice lines up with both your design goals and the local building codes. Aluminum cladding systems give architects, builders, and property owners flexible options that meet high standards for durability, energy efficiency, and sustainability. These systems are designed to meet or surpass ASTM International standards and can even help you on your path to LEED Certification if you’re focused on green building.
aPlank offers a variety of aluminum cladding solutions to fit different architectural styles and performance needs. Their products are designed for easy installation, compatibility with continuous insulation, and long-lasting resistance to the elements. Many of their systems are tested to comply with the latest International Building Code (IBC) and local regulations, so you can feel confident no matter where your project is located in the U.S. Plus, they provide technical support and design resources to help you choose the right product, integrate it into your plans, and handle the paperwork for code compliance and LEED submissions.