Whats The Best Type of Siding For My Home
Your home’s siding has taken quite a beating throughout the years. It has been exposed to harsh sun rays, pounding rain, occasional sleet and hail, offending dirt and snow, a wayward baseball or two, and much more. After all this, it’s not surprising that your home’s siding needs to be updated. If you’re ready to give your house a new look, you’ll need to choose the right siding materials. But how do you know which ones will help you achieve the look you’re going for?
When choosing new siding for your home, you will want to consider the material’s durability, aesthetics, cost, and maintenance. Each siding option has its pros and cons in these areas. Let’s take a look at the different siding materials available to you.
Vinyl Siding
Vinyl siding is a popular choice among homeowners across the nation because it is highly affordable and extremely weatherproof. It’s especially beneficial for homes exposed to heavy rainfall and frequent storms since the plastic material is water-resistant. Vinyl siding is also highly favored for its fire resistance and wide range of color choices.
While deciding if vinyl siding is best for your home, you must consider the material’s longevity. This plastic material fades much faster than others, lasting only 10 to 15 years. This is because it is sensitive to UV light exposure and harsh weather conditions. It is also prone to mold growth, which can ruin the material’s vibrancy.
Fiber-Cement Siding
Fiber-cement siding provides the look of wood, masonry, or stucco siding without the high price tag. Plus, it is low-maintenance, non-flammable, termite-resistant, formidable against hail and high winds, and available in a variety of styles and textures — the perfect recipe for a beautiful facade.
In addition to these benefits, homeowners across Maryland are frequently drawn to fiber-cement siding because it can last 25 to 50 years before requiring replacement. Before deciding whether this siding material is best for your home, ensure you are prepared to handle possible moisture-related issues.
Brick Siding
If you’re interested in a timeless look for your home’s exterior, brick may be the best option. This highly durable material requires little maintenance and will not be faded by the sun, meaning you will not have to invest in new paint jobs every few years (like you would with vinyl or wood siding). Plus, you can expect the brick exterior to last at least 100 years — you may not have to invest in new siding ever again!
While brick siding is known for its longevity and aesthetic appeal, it does have a few drawbacks. First, it’s very expensive (at $6 to $15 per square foot) because the installation process is very labor-intensive. Secondly, brick siding requires a waterproof membrane to protect the structure from moisture damage. If you’re prepared to handle these additional costs, brick could be the perfect siding option for your house.
Wood Siding
Commonly seen on cottages, wood siding is a popular choice when the homeowner wants a timeless appearance. They can choose from various woods and arrangements (shingles or clapboards) and paint or stain the material to achieve their desired look. Wood is extremely durable and attractive when properly maintained and can last anywhere from 10 to 100 years.
The biggest downside to wood siding is that it is highly combustible. However, a flame retardant chemical can be applied to the siding to prevent the material from going up in flames.
Stone Veneer Siding
Do you love the appearance of natural stone but wince at its high price tag? You’ll want to consider adding stone veneer to your home. This siding option is made from Portland cement, aggregates, and pigment to create an authentic look — without draining your bank account! Stone veneer is often applied to the lower half of main level walls and paired with wood or fiber-cement siding to add texture and visual interest to a home’s exterior.
Need Help Choosing the Siding Perfect for Your Home?
If your home’s facade could use a boost, consider hiring a siding expert to help you choose the best siding for your home. The contractors at ALP Roofing are highly experienced in selecting and installing the perfect siding materials. We can also help you with a residential roof installation or storm damage repair in Bel Air, MD, and beyond. To enhance your home’s curb appeal and protect its structural integrity, contact our team today!
