What is the term for the exterior wall covering that protects a structure from environmental elements?

The term for the exterior wall covering that protects a structure from environmental elements is "exterior wall finish." This term encompasses a variety of materials and techniques used on the outer surfaces of building walls to provide both protection and aesthetic appeal. Exterior wall finishes are designed to withstand weather conditions such as rain, snow, wind, and sun exposure while also contributing to the overall insulation and energy efficiency of the building.

Roofing refers specifically to the material that covers the roof, which is separate and serves a different purpose than wall finishes. Insulation, while important for temperature regulation within a building, is typically located within the walls rather than as an exterior covering. Sheathing, on the other hand, is a structural layer beneath the exterior finishes that provides support and serves as a base for attaching the siding or other finishing materials, but it is not the visible outer layer itself. Thus, the designations of roofing, insulation, and sheathing do not fulfill the criteria of a protective exterior wall covering in the way that an exterior wall finish does.