There are certain considerations to be taken when choosing siding for your home. Siding is a major undertaking and home improvement just like roofing or any other major carpentry job. Siding has the job of protecting the contents of your home from all weather conditions like excessive heat and strong winds as well as erosion and decay. Some homeowners aren’t fully aware just how vital siding actually is, which sometimes leads them to making uninformed and hasty decisions. Here’s what you need to consider before you make your final choice.
Local Weather Conditions
The general weather conditions in your area should be a huge factor in deciding which siding material is ideal and the most conducive for your home. Different materials are more suitable according to the weather and overall climate of a certain area. For example, if you live in an area that experiences a great deal of rainfall throughout the year, moisture-resistant composites or galvanized steel are better options than a material like vinyl. Materials that consist of stone without wood fibers are great choices in wet climates since they help the siding to resist substantially longer, which contributes to its overall longevity.
Aesthetic Value
When it comes to choosing the ideal siding material for your home, aesthetics play a huge role, although it’s sometimes overlooked, according to Better Homes and Gardens. Keep in mind that siding has the power to boost home equity. Therefore, not only does it have to do its job of keeping the house warm and dry, it also has to look good while doing it. The right siding can literally increase the value of your home, probably more than you think.
When selecting siding materials, pay special attention to the architecture and style of your home since certain colors and textures will complement it and highlight its key features in the best way possible. For instance, if your home has an ultra-modern architectural style, it wouldn’t suit it to cover it with traditional style shingles. That would be an incongruous, odd combination and could ultimately devalue your home.
Costs
Cost is a big factor to consider no matter what home improvement project you’re working on. Not only do you need to compare the siding material costs involved including installation, but also the expense of maintenance as well as any future repairs.
Comparison of Different Types of Siding
Energy efficiency, durability, climate, and longevity are all important aspects to consider when choosing siding. Home improvement experts put different kinds of siding to the test and discovered that the most expensive and thickest siding performed the best. On the other hand, certain types of the less expensive material did as well. Here’s a closer look at the pros and cons of some of the most common siding materials used today.
Vinyl Siding
Pros: Versatility and overall good performance. Withstands wind and hail and resists fading, water, insects, and warping; available in hundreds of colors, textures, and color options in addition to long life, low maintenance, and inexpensive.
Cons: Lacks energy efficiency and no insulating properties. Vinyl siding can melt, burn, and crack. Severe weather conditions may cause significant damage. Expands and contracts in extreme temperatures.
Brick Siding
Pros: Huge selection of textures, sizes, and colors along with high durability. Resistant to dry rot, fading, and fire. Good thermal qualities and sound insulation. Longevity.
Cons: Water can permeate brick veneer. Materials and installation are expensive.
Stone Siding
Pros: Best for longevity and durability. Low maintenance and resists fire, insects, and dry rot. Stone veneer are great lightweight alternatives to natural stone.
Cons: Very expensive
Wood Siding
Pros: Many types to choose from, including shakes, shingles, split logs, etc. as well as various finishing options. Good insulation results in lower energy bills. Renewable and sustainable material and can be installed either horizontally or vertically.
Cons: Wood requires priming to avoid water seepage. Vulnerable to rot, water damage, fire, and insects. Moisture barrier required. Needs regular maintenance.
Stucco Siding
Pros: Produced from a combination of cement, lime or sand, and can be custom textured and shaped. Fire resistant and available in a wide variety of colors. Long-lasting with low maintenance. Cost is relatively reasonable. Synthetic stucco is a less costly alternative.
Cons: More appropriate for dry, warm climates. Prone to cracking; water seepage may cause separation. Labor-intensive process for installation.
Fiber Cement Siding
Pros: The combination of sand, cement, and cellulose fibers blend the durability of brick or stone with the beauty of wood at an affordable cost. Good selection of colors and patterns. Won’t swell, rot, crack, or decay. Resistant to water, fire, and termites. Longevity.
Cons: Not conducive for colder climates where water constantly freezes and thaws since it will cause damage. Requires periodic maintenance. Material is significantly heavy.
Related Resource: Installing Patio Sliding Doors
After considering all the pros and cons and other relative information, you’ll be able to make a smart, informed choice for your new siding installation. Take the necessary time you need before making a hasty decision since there are many important considerations to be taken when choosing siding.
