Our previous blog article in our series on Everything You Need To Know About The Siding Of Your Home, focused on the importance of replacing or re-staining the siding on your home. More than simply improving your home’s curb appeal, we saw that siding improves your home’s insulation and protects it from adverse weather conditions. It goes without saying that your home’s siding plays a significant role in influencing your home’s architectural style. This article will dig a little bit deeper on the kinds of siding materials you should use and breaks down the benefits and weaknesses of each. So sit back, buckle up and relax as we cruise you through a sea of information on your home’s siding.
Types of House Siding:
- Wood
Wood siding has been used for centuries. Most people not only like it for its beauty, but also for the natural look that it brings to their homes. The naturally changing tones and colors of wood make a home feel inviting. Wood siding can be from different tree species such as cedar, redwood, fir, pine, and spruce. An advantage of wood siding is that it can easily be stained.
Other than stain color and species, you can further tailor your home’s overall look by selecting a profile that is most applicable to you. Some of the most popular profiles for wood are board and batten, shakes or shingles, bevel or clapboards, and engineered wood like vertical boards and wooden sheet siding. The cheapest option is clapboard while the most expensive option is shingles due to its classic look.
Pros
– If damaged, you can replace wood siding in small quantities. Other types of siding need sides and whole panel replacement in case of damage.
– Without a doubt, wood siding is the ‘greenest’ siding on the market.
– With wood siding, there is infinite customizability; there are no boundaries to the types of stains that can be applied on wood.
– The insulation R-value of wood siding is higher compared to other types of siding, meaning it is more energy efficient.
– It is easier and faster to install.
Cons
– Although wood siding has infinite customizability, maintenance is a must; there are no shortcuts.
– Wood can easily be damaged by water or wood eating insects such as termites.
– Maintenance cost always add up: staining is required every 3-4 years, and repainting is needed every 5-6 years.
– It’s not suitable in dry areas since it isn’t fire resistant.
- Fiber Cement
Fiber cement is one of the most popular siding options because of its low maintenance and resistance to insects. It is a mixture of cement, sand, and fibers. Australia’s James Hardie is the most popular brand. Many homeowners prefer fiber cement because it is a low-cost wood alternative that is durable.
Pros
– Fiber cement has a look and feel of wood, and it is not susceptible to wood insects.
– Fiber cement has a class 1A fire rating, meaning it is fire resistant.
– People who live in coastal areas don’t have to worry about salty air damaging their siding. It also isn’t prone to decay or rot.
– Has a 15-year guarantee of not chipping nor fading. Its maintenance is easy.
– Has numerous color options due to its varied texture and finish.
Cons
– Although not as frequent as wood, it requires repainting every 13-15 years.
– Self-installation can be challenging for one person due to its heavy weight, it requires special cutting tools and at least two people to install.
– Although not frequent, there is some evidence of delamination of the material.
- Vinyl Siding
Vinyl siding is the most popular boasting a 30% market share of new siding installations. Most homeowners like it because of its color options, low cost, and durability. Like wood siding, vinyl has numerous profiles which include: shingles, shakes, vertical and horizontal panel, board and batten, scallops or fish scale, and dutch lap.
Pros
– It is very durable. After installation, vinyl siding warranty is for 30-40 years.
– Vinyl’s color options are endless.
– Its versatility allows it to be textured like wood without worrying about termites or decay.
– When upgrading your exterior siding, vinyl is most likely the cheapest option.
– With an R-value of 2-5.5, insulated vinyl is energy efficient.
– It is easy to clean.
– There are numerous vinyl materials to choose from.
Cons
– Extreme cold and heat may cause vinyl to warp and bend
– It is water-resistant but not waterproof. Poor installation may lead to water seepage through the paneling creating molds and other unwanted issues.
– You can’t repaint vinyl. The color you choose to paint your vinyl is permanent.
- Stucco Siding
Stucco siding is an exterior style that traces its roots to Spain. It is made up of cement, sand, and a lime mixture. Although it can be painted, it doesn’t hold well and will require frequent repainting. Stucco siding has two options: synthetic stucco and traditional stucco.
Pros
– Requires minimal maintenance and can last 50-100 years.
– Stucco siding is not affected by rot or insect problems.
– Dries quickly due to its breathable materials.
– Stucco enables you to achieve your desired results because it gives room for mixing of specific colors.
– It is cheaper to repair considering you don’t have to replace entire panels.
Cons
– Stucco easily cracks if a home’s foundation moves.
– Dirt and weathering are more visible on stucco siding.
– Areas that experience heavy rainfall aren’t suitable for stucco.
- Brick Siding
Brick siding is conducive mainly because it lasts forever. Many homeowners prefer it because of its elegant rustic look. Brick siding has two options: brick veneer and solid brick (brick masonry).
Pros
– Bricks last a lifetime.
– It is fire resistant.
– Does not fade or decay; neither does it need repainting.
– Has lower home insurance due to the fact that it is durable, termite proof, and is fire resistant.
Cons
– It will take longer to install if you are doing so yourself.
– Brick siding is expensive.
– Color choice is permanent once you settle on a specific brick, there is no room for repainting.
– Motor joints may need replacement since they deteriorate over time.
Now that you are an expert in the different types of siding options out there, are you ready to start a project of your own? When you are ready, C.E.T. Painting would be happy to arrange a no cost, no obligation estimate at your home. All estimates are done by Carlos taking advantage of his many years of experience and expertise. Don’t hesitate to give us a call today (914) 615-1415. Our series on Everything You Need To Know About The Siding Of Your Home continues with our next blog post on a guide to selecting the perfect siding color. You won’t want to miss it.