What types of facades are there?

A facade makes a home or building unique. There are several types and shapes of cladding to choose from. And there are also several materials that can be used. In this blog, we would like to tell you more about this subject.

Standard facade types

These are the gable types we mainly see on houses from 50 years ago to today.

• Open gable: triangular shape, often the standard for houses
• Flat gable: a standard gable with a flat roof

Special facades

Special facades are mostly seen on old building styles such as canal houses in Amsterdam and monuments. These special facades are for example:

• Stepped gable: the typical staircase, built up in blocks.
• Spout gable: a sloping gable ending in a spout (type of block).
• Bell gable: narrow house, with point finished in circular / bell shape.
• Neck gable: fitted with two 90-degree corners and finished with ornaments.

Facade types – Material

While many facades are basically made of stone, other types of materials can also occur. Some examples are:

• Stone facades: most common type of facade with a long lifespan.
• Wooden facades: warm look, it is becoming increasingly popular.
• Plaster facades: modern look with plaster (often white).
• Metal facades: solid and for an industrial look.
• Plastic facades: budget-friendly with PVC facade panels.

Changing the appearance of the facade

We distinguish between the front facade, rear facade and side facades. You might want to give your house a different look. In this case, upgrading the façade is a good choice, as it covers a large part of the house.

Shape facade type change: a relatively intense job in many cases, as it requires construction or demolition. Is therefore often preferred only in exceptional cases.
Material façade type change: is an option, but it is often financially more attractive to tackle the finish of the current façade.
Finish facade type change: the current facade is retained and decorated with other materials, such as plaster, new bricks or wood.

If you are building a new house, or completely remodelling a current one, you can of course choose the desired shape and material for your facade right away instead of changing it later.

Wooden cladding increasingly popular!

Many houses have a stone facade. Nowadays, we see that people increasingly prefer something different. A wooden cladding is popular! This is partly due to the warm appearance of wood, which gives a modern look. But not only that, it also exudes durability – and is sustainable.

Our recommendation? Shou Sugi Ban charred wood!

Wooden is available in different shapes and sizes. Of course, it is important that you choose a type of wood that has been properly treated to make it resistant to weather, insects and moisture. 

A good example is Shou Sugi Ban wood. This black charred wood is burnt in a special way, giving it a unique and sustainable charred layer. This ensures a sustainable result with a special appearance. The charred varieties require low maintenance and will last for years!

Sample box including Shou Sugi Ban wall cladding

Whatever type of facade you have, the special charred wood can always be used as facade cladding.
At Zwarthout | Shou Sugi Ban, we also have different types of wood in our collection, each with its own structure and appearance. Does it appeal to you? Then request the sample box (exterior) and discover the exclusive Shou Sugi Ban wood for yourself.

TIP: you can also use our charred Shou Sugi Ban wood for cladding interior walls. That’s why we also have an interior sample box.