Exterior cladding choice in Ontario involves balancing cost, freeze-thaw durability, maintenance load, and aesthetics. Here is a full comparison for 2026.
Vinyl Siding: $5-$12/sq ft installed
Most common in Ontario. Never needs painting. Insulated vinyl adds R-2 to R-4. Not fire-rated. Can crack if struck in extreme cold. Wash annually. Lower insurance premiums vs combustible cladding.
Fibre Cement (James Hardie): $10-$18/sq ft installed
Looks like wood. Fire-resistant, pest-resistant, paintable. Repaint every 8-12 years. Heavier than vinyl — higher install labour. Growing fast in Ontario for appearance advantages over vinyl.
Brick: $15-$30/sq ft new veneer
Exceptional durability. Very low maintenance — repointing every 25-40 years. Favoured by Ontario insurance companies for fire resistance. Repair/repointing: $15-$40/sq ft.
Stucco and EIFS: $12-$25/sq ft
Traditional stucco: durable if maintained and cracks sealed promptly. EIFS (synthetic stucco): high R-value but known moisture problems when improperly detailed. Ensure proper drainage plane and flashing at all penetrations.
Stone Veneer: $15-$50/sq ft
Premium aesthetic. Natural stone $25-$50/sq ft. Manufactured stone veneer $15-$30/sq ft. Proper flashing and weep screed mandatory to manage moisture.
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