Whether you’re building from scratch or renovating for more frequent use, cottage and cabin owners have more choice in building materials than ever before. With new innovations on the market, you can think beyond traditional wood and brick to achieve stunning aesthetics without compromising on durability.
Here are some emerging building materials that can help sustain the life and value of a cottage or cabin.
Engineered wood products
An increasingly popular choice is engineered wood products like cross-laminated timber (CLT) and laminated veneer lumber (LVL). These materials offer exceptional strength and stability that can even exceed traditional lumber.
CLT and LVL provide a warm, natural look and can be used for structural elements as well as interior finishes to create a modern yet rustic feel. Their resistance to warping and shrinking can also contribute to the long-term integrity of a cottage or cabin, potentially reducing risks associated with structural issues.
Fiber cement siding
For exterior cladding, fiber cement siding is being more commonly considered over alternatives like wood and vinyl. Known for its durability against fire, pests, and harsh weather conditions, fiber cement comes in diverse styles and colours and can mimic the look of wood, stucco, or stone.
Metal siding and roofing
Another stylish yet robust option is metal siding and roofing. Modern metal products are often made from recycled content, offer exceptional longevity, fire resistance, and are low maintenance. Available in various profiles and finishes, from sleek and contemporary to faux wood shakes, metal can be striking while still offering good protection against the elements.
Polished concrete floors
For cottage and cabin owners looking for durable, low-maintenance, affordable flooring, polished concrete floors are emerging as a stylish and sleek option. Concrete’s thermal mass properties can contribute to energy efficiency. And it’s naturally resistant to water and moisture, making it a practical choice to minimize damage from wet footprints and spills. Polished concrete can be stained and finished in various ways to achieve different looks, including high gloss for modern aesthetics or a matte finish for a more rustic feel.
Recycled glass countertops
Cottage and cabin owners can reduce landfill waste by bringing in countertops made by combining local, crushed recycled glass with a durable binder like cement or resin. Benefits include durability and resistance to stains and scratches, and the ability to customize with different colours and textures. Vibrant colours and unique patterns can add personal character and visual interest to a kitchen.
Hempcrete
A unique, bio-composite building material, hempcrete combines the woody stems of the hemp plant with lime-based binder and water. It’s naturally resistant to mold, pests, and fire and its excellent insulation properties contribute to energy efficiency, helping to keep cottage or cabins cool in the summer and warm in the winter.
Hempcrete is also a breathable material, which could help regulate indoor humidity levels. From an environmental perspective, hemp is a rapidly renewable resource that absorbs CO2 as it grows, making hempcrete a carbon-negative building material over its lifecycle.
RetreatLife offers coverage for cottages and cabins
Another way to ensure a recreational property or holiday home is safe and sustainable is to get specialized insurance coverage.
Check out Aviva’s RetreatLife product, which is specially designed for the realities of cottage and cabin ownership.
