There are a number of reasons homeowners decide to have new siding installed on their homes. Major storms, high utility bills, and an outdated appearance can all play a role in the choice to invest in new siding. Picking the perfect siding style for your house, however, can be a challenge! That’s where this guide comes in. As you read on, you will learn about the things you need to consider as you shop for the ideal siding for you.
Crucial Considerations
- Weather – Think about the climate where you live. Some types of siding hold-up better in temperate climates, even if they are humid and muggy, while others are designed to withstand harsh winters.
- Aesthetic – While you might think all siding looks basically the same, you couldn’t be further from the truth. As a matter of fact, most of today’s brands have multiple styles of siding, some of which feature rustic looks, others that are perfect for historic homes, and still others that have been engineered with a sleek, modern look. Options are also available in a variety of shapes, including shingles, scallops, and traditional siding boards.
- Versatility – This is an especially important factor to consider if you plan to install the same siding on more than one building on your property. If, for example, you have a garage or a barn, you’ll want to make sure you choose a style that will look good not only on your main house, but on your outbuildings as well.
- Durability – Although all types of siding are designed to last for at least a couple of decades, some are still more durable than others. If you want to make sure you won’t have to put new siding on your house again (barring extreme circumstances), make sure you take the durability of each material into serious consideration.
- Cost – Your budget is an important factor when it comes to purchasing siding. Certain styles are significantly less costly than others, so the amount of money you can afford to spend might ultimately help make your final decision for you. Remember, though, it never hurts to get a quote for any option that interests you.
Types of Siding
- Vinyl siding – Vinyl siding is the most common in the United States, largely due to its affordable price point. Furthermore, it is available in a huge range of colors and typically includes a 30-40-year warranty. The primary downsides of vinyl siding are that it can bend and warp in extreme temperatures (both hot and cold) and it is almost impossible to match a color precisely if just one or two boards become damaged.
- Wood siding – Before the invention of vinyl siding, wood siding was just about the only option available to homeowners who weren’t interested in brick or stone exteriors. Today’s wood siding, however, is lower-maintenance than older styles and has a sleeker look. More and more people, for example, are installing vertical raw wood siding on just one exterior wall for a rustic, yet stylish, aesthetic.
- Fiber cement siding – Fiber cement siding is the most durable, and the most expensive, of all modern siding options. It is a relatively new material, crafted from a mixture of cellulose and cement. This sort of siding can be designed to look like wood, but with virtually no upkeep, and can withstand severe winds and storms. This makes it ideal for families who reside in coastal areas that are often hit by hurricanes.
No matter what sort of siding you’re leaning toward for your home, our skilled team can help you make the right decision. Give us a call today at 781-789-8827.
