This seems like a pretty straightforward question, but the answer isn’t so simple. There are many factors to consider when deciding which siding material to put on your home.
In this article, we will provide you with some important questions and considerations, and some helpful information about the different siding options available to you. Hopefully, by the end, you’ll have a clearer idea of what siding lasts the longest in your area and for your home.
Let’s get started!
Things to Consider Before Installing Siding
Choosing the siding material for your house 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:
Durability
Perhaps the most important thing to consider for the longevity of your siding is the climate where you live. If you reside in a chilly climate, you’ll need to pick siding that is both durable and resistant to the elements. If you live in a hot environment, you’ll want a siding that won’t absorb heat and will keep your home cool.
Budget
Another thing to consider is the cost of the siding. Siding may be pricey, but there are many kinds and styles to match various budgets. Also, keep in mind installation expenses if you’re hiring someone to install it for you. If you want to DIY siding, think again. Installation of siding is a huge project that can be dangerous if not done correctly, especially if you aren’t adequately equipped with the proper safety equipment.
Material
What types of materials appeal to you and go with your lifestyle and aesthetic? There are a number of materials to select from, such as vinyl, wood, or aluminum. Each has its own set of benefits and drawbacks. Continue reading so that you can learn more about the material options.
Color and Style
Along with a material, you’ll also need to decide on the color and style of the siding. This is an option that you can make entirely on your own. However, if you live in an HOA, you’ll almost certainly be restricted to an authorized color palette to match the look of the community and the other homes. Before purchasing siding, get clarity from your HOA’s bylaws or board so you know how many options you have.
Siding Material Options: What Siding Lasts the Longest?
Now that you have an idea of what’s important to keep in mind while making your decision, let’s go over your actual siding options so you know which siding is best for you:
Vinyl Siding
Vinyl siding is by far the most popular choice. When properly installed, vinyl siding is cost-effective, long-lasting, low-maintenance, and available in a range of colors and types. With proper maintenance, it’s expected to last between 60-100 years! It is also more weatherproof than other siding materials, like stucco siding, and can better endure harsh elements.
Fiber Cement Siding
Another common choice, and one of the most durable siding replacement options, is fiber cement siding. Some people conflate fiber cement siding with engineered wood siding, but they are not the same. Engineered wood siding is comparable, but it is often lighter. Fiber cement siding has many of the same advantages as vinyl siding.
If you’ve never heard of fiber cement siding before, it’s a combination of cement, sand, and cellulose fibers that gets pressed and compressed to form a very long-lasting, extremely low-cost material. And, it can be painted like vinyl siding.
Wood Siding
Wood siding is a popular option for siding materials because of its natural appearance. It is also long-lasting and can endure many years if well maintained. However, wood is vulnerable to weathering and warping in the heat.
Cedar siding, or cedar shake siding, is quite popular in the United States and Canada since it resists moisture, blends in with the environment, increases curb appeal, and lasts a long time if properly maintained. However, as far as siding materials go, it’s rather pricey. The installation process is slower than with other materials.
Aluminum Siding
Another popular option for siding is aluminum metal siding, which is weather-resistant and does not retain or radiate heat as wood does. It also comes in a number of colors and designs.
Aluminum siding has several drawbacks that prevent people from using it. First and foremost, aluminum fades in the sun far more quickly than other materials, giving it a chalky, aged appearance. Second, when compared to other materials such as wood, brick, or vinyl, it appears to be low-cost and flimsy. Finally, if the metal bends and flexes in the wind, it may make a lot of noise. If individuals prefer higher-quality metal siding over aluminum siding, they might choose steel siding instead.
Adobe
Adobe is a brick that is frequently used as exterior siding in hot climates. It’s durable and can endure high temperatures, although it isn’t as long-lasting as vinyl or wood. Adobe homes are most prevalent in the Southwest, such as Arizona, California, and New Mexico.
Find a Good Siding Contractor
After you’ve decided on the material for your new siding, you’ll need to locate a contractor to install it. Before hiring a contractor, get multiple quotations and references. Also, make sure to inquire about the contractor’s experience with the sort of siding you want.
We would like to get you started by suggesting you check out Peak to Peak Roofing & Exteriors. They provide a wide range of siding materials, and they are specialists in siding installation. To learn more about their siding services, go to their website now.
As a quick note: If you’re replacing your siding because your neighborhood was recently hit by a strong storm, be wary of the contractors you choose for the job. Siding businesses will rush in from all around to take advantage of desperate and vulnerable homeowners after natural calamities strike. They swoop in, do poor work, and then depart shortly after. Choose someone established and local to avoid getting taken advantage of of any money you’ve worked hard for. They’ll make sure your siding is properly installed for the right price.
Have You Made Your Decision Yet?
New siding may be just the ticket to enhancing the curb appeal and stability of your property. You can be confident that you’re selecting the appropriate type of siding for your home and budget if you consider the factors we’ve outlined above. There are so many choices: vinyl siding, wood siding, fiber cement, engineered wood, aluminum or steel siding, adobe, and more!
If you’re searching for a trustworthy local contractor to bid on your project, get a quote from Peak to Peak Roofing & Exteriors. They’ll provide you with a high-quality product and do the job right. Get your free siding estimate now by going online to call to speak with a project manager!