CHOOSING THE RIGHT SIDING MATERIAL…SHOULD BE DECIDED ON…LOCATION, BUDGET AND PERSONAL PREFERENCE.

Sometimes referred to as exterior cladding, the siding material chosen for a home will protect it from the wind, rain, snow and severe weather, and will contribute a great deal to the character of a house through a variety of choices in color, style, texture, and materials. There are four primary siding material options most commonly used today, which include wood, plastic (vinyl), metal and composite materials. Choosing the right siding material for your home should be decided on a number of factors depending on your location, budget and personal preference.

Siding Material 1: Wood

Historically wood held rein as the most commonly used siding material (largely due to its abundance and lack of alternative choices) up until the last 50-100 years when modern manufactured siding like vinyl and metal became more available. Typically made of pine, redwood, or cedar, the natural beauty of wood is its largest attribute. However, compared to the other siding material options wood requires far more maintenance. Painting, water sealers, and chemicals to protect form infestation must be applied regularly.

Siding Material 2: Vinyl

Economical, durable and nearly maintenance free, vinyl siding is the most installed siding material in the U.S. and maintains a 34% market share over competing siding options. Relatively inexpensive and easy to install, vinyl never rots, decays or rusts, and comes in a variety of color options, styles and textures. Due to its flexibility, it will take mild abuse from rain, hail and the occasional baseball, without denting. However, vinyl siding can chip or crack if hit hard enough and has a tendency to become less resilient as it ages or in cold temperatures. Fortunately, damaged pieces of this siding material are fairly easy and inexpensive to repair or replace. In the past, some were prone to fading, however many quality brands have made advances in their coloring application and guarantee against fading for the life of the product.

Siding Material 3: Metal

Steel and aluminum are the most common forms of metal siding materials, both of which typically come at a premium price. Although metal siding is more expensive than vinyl, it is extremely durable and mostly maintenance free. Metal siding won’t crack or chip like its vinyl counterpart, however both are susceptible to being dented, particularly aluminum, depending on the gauge of the metal and force of impact. Steel siding materials can be somewhat heavy and unwieldy to install, and can rust if scratched. Seamless steel siding is an option provided by some siding contractors, which is custom cut and fit for a professional finish.

Siding Material 4: Composite Fiber Cement

Fiber cement, common in commercial construction, has made a strong surge as a residential siding material over the past few years. Manufactured from sand, cement and cellulose fibers, fiber cement siding is resistant to fire, cracking, rotting, hail damage, termites, and is designed to last up to 50 years. Colors and styles of fiber cement are quickly becoming more abundant as its popularity continues to increase. Although the fiber cement siding material has many benefits, some homeowners are yet deterred by its higher price and lack of options.

Consult With Your Contractor

Choosing the right siding material option for you and your home can be a difficult decision to make on your own. Asking your siding contractor for advice and input, may help in making the best choice for you.