Building Smart Where It Counts: Exterior Material Strategy for Public Works

Jul 24

With pressure mounting on budgets,
balance matters

Not every structure requires fully customized premium products from top to bottom. But in the right locations, smart upgrades can add long-term value — reducing maintenance, improving durability, and elevating the end-user experience.

For public-facing buildings like fire stations, that balance matters more than ever. These buildings don’t just house equipment and teams — they serve as long-term, visible investments in the community. They need to perform under stress, hold up to weather, and still fit the surrounding landscape.

A Strategic Approach at Kendall Fire Station

At Kendall Fire Station in Grand Rapids, our exterior scope is progressing with clear purpose.

We began with James Hardie Siding, chosen for its:

· Fire resistance

· Dimensional stability

· Weather protection

· Cost-effectiveness on municipal budgets

It’s a proven system for government projects that require durability without overspending.

Next, we’re moving into Longboard’s 6" V-Groove Aluminum Soffits — a premium finish that isn’t used across every elevation, but strategically applied where it brings lasting value. Longboard offers:

· Non-combustible, extruded aluminum construction

· AAMA 2605 powder-coated finish

· Zero-maintenance performance

· A clean, modern aesthetic where it's needed most

This is a prime example of where intentional upgrades make sense — on exposed soffit lines, key entries, and visible edges where appearance, durability, and fire resistance matter most.

Matching Vision With Execution

Construction isn’t just about materials; it’s about execution. On this build, EV Construction, led by Curt Hielke and Doug Eddy on site, has created a job environment where sequencing, quality, and field flow enable us to deliver work that meets the original vision.

We’re not using premium products everywhere. We’re using them where they belong. That’s how you respect both the budget and the building.

Construction Ahead, USA – We build for performance.

📫: estimating@constructionaheadinc.com

📞: 847.697.2224