Today, we are talking all about siding. Choosing the siding for your home is a big undertaking. Whether you’re replacing old worn siding or doing a new build, there are several things you should take into consideration before buying and installing house siding:
Material
The first is what material you want to use. There are a variety of materials to choose from, such as vinyl, wood, or aluminum. Each has its own strengths and weaknesses, advantages and disadvantages. Read on to find out more about material options.
Color and Style
You’ll also need to decide on the color and style of the siding. This might be a decision you can make completely on your own. Or, if you live in an association, you’ll likely have to choose from an approved palette of colors to match the aesthetic or the neighborhood as well as the other homes. Consult with your HOA documents or HOA board before you buy your siding so you know what your options are.
Budget
The cost of the siding is another big factor to consider. Siding can be expensive, but there are a variety of materials and styles to fit all budgets. Don’t forget to budget for installation costs, as well. And, if you’re thinking about installing siding yourself, think again. Siding is a massive undertaking, and it can be a very dangerous job if you are not careful or properly equipped.
Durability and Compatability With Your Environment
Another thing to consider is the climate where you live. If you live in a cold climate, you’ll need to choose a type of siding that is weather-resistant and can stand up to the elements. If you live in a hot climate, you’ll want to choose a type of siding that doesn’t absorb heat and will keep your home cool.
Let’s go over your siding options so you know which one might be best for your climate and environment.
Vinyl Siding
Vinyl is by far the most popular choice for siding because it is affordable, durable, low-maintenance, and comes in a variety of colors and styles. It is also weather-resistant and can withstand extreme temperatures better than other siding options.
Fiber Cement Siding
Fiber cement siding is another extremely popular option. Some people get fiber cement siding confused with engineered wood siding, but they are slightly different. Engineered wood siding is similar, but it tends to be lighter. Fiber cement siding shares many of the same benefits as vinyl siding. Perhaps you’ve heard of the popular fiber cement manufacturer James Hardie Siding? If you’re unfamiliar with what fiber cement siding is, it can be described as a mix of cement, sand, and cellulose fibers. This combo is pressed and compressed together to form a super durable, super affordable siding solution. It can be colored just like vinyl siding.
Wood Siding
Wood siding is a classic choice for new siding and it has a natural look that many homeowners prefer. It is also durable and can last for many years if properly maintained. However, wood siding is susceptible to weathering and warping, especially in hot climates. Cedar shakes are really popular along the upper east coast and in northern climates because they shirk moisture, blend in with the landscape, and last a very long time if cared for properly. It can be extremely expensive though.
Aluminum Siding
Aluminum metal siding is another popular choice for siding because it is weather-resistant and doesn’t absorb and keep the heat as wood does. It also comes in a variety of colors and styles.
People hesitate with aluminum for a few main reasons. Firstly, aluminum can fade in the sun easier than other materials, giving it a chalky, worn-out look. Secondly, it looks somewhat cheap and un-sturdy compared to other materials such as wood, brick, or vinyl. Lastly, it can be loud if it bends and flexes in the wind. If people want higher-quality metal siding, they might lean towards steel siding over aluminum siding.
Stucco
Another option to consider is stucco. Stucco is a type of plaster that is often used on the exterior of homes. It is weather-resistant and can withstand extreme temperatures. However, it is not as durable as vinyl or wood and can be expensive to install.
Stucco also has a tendency to rot from the inside. You can’t always see the damage right aay, because there is space between the stucco and the home so mold grows on the inside. When stucco goes bad though, you’ll be able to stick your hand through the wall, which is obviously not something you want. This is also bad news because, unlike board siding, you can’t usually just replace a section of stucco. If your stucco rots, you’ll probably have to replace it all around the house, which can cost hundreds of thousands of dollars. For those reasons, stucco is largely obsolete nowadays.
Adobe
Adobe is a type of brick that is often used as exterior siding in hot climates. It is weather-resistant and can withstand extreme temperatures. However, it is not as durable as vinyl or wood and can be expensive to install. Adobe homes are primarily found in Southwestern states like Arizona, California, and New Mexico.
Find Your Siding Contractor
Once you’ve decided on the material for your siding, you’ll need to find a contractor to install it for you. Be sure to get multiple quotes and references before hiring a contractor. Also, be sure to ask about the contractor’s experience installing the type of siding you want.
To get you started, we would like to recommend you check out Peak to Peak Roofing & Exteriors. They have a wonderful selection of siding materials, and they are siding installation experts. Check out their website today to browse their available siding services, and contact one of their installation pros to get a quote for your siding project.
Just as a quick cautionary tip: If you’re replacing your siding because your area just got hit by a bad storm, be really careful about the contractors you consider for the job. When natural disasters hit, siding companies will come from all over looking to make a quick buck off of desperate and vulnerable homeowners. They swoop in, do shoddy work, and then leave town soon after. Be careful and choose someone local so you don’t get conned out of any of your hard-earned money.
Which New Siding Will You Get?
Siding can be a great way to improve the look and feel of your home. By taking into consideration the things we’ve mentioned above, you can be sure to choose the right type of siding for your home and budget. You have so many options: vinyl siding, wood siding, fiber cement, engineered wood, aluminum or steel siding, and more!
If you’re looking for a trusted local contractor to bid on your job, start with the Denver siding contractors at Peak to Peak Roofing & Exteriors. With years of experience in the industry, they are sure to give you a quality job that will last for years to come. Talk to a project manager or go online to get your free siding estimate today!