Getting new siding can be exciting. You can choose the color and style you want while also choosing an option that will best protect your home from the weather. While there are variations, most siding is rated for winds up to 110 miles per hour, which is more than enough for normal weather conditions. Obviously, extreme weather like tornadoes and hurricanes may still pose a problem. When you live in regions prone to these types of weather, you know what to expect.
There are roughly 15 different types of siding that you may consider depending on your personal tastes, budget, and the region where you live. Of the 15, the most popular are vinyl, fiber cement, and cedar.
Fiber cement siding is highly durable and provides great insulation for the home and can stand up to nearly any weather conditions. It is made of a mixture of wood pulp and cement. which is what makes it so durable. It is rot proof and termite proof, which is valuable if you live in high humid areas where rot and termites are an ongoing problem.
Vinyl siding is lightweight and flexible. It comes in a wide range of colors and textures, and it is low maintenance. You do not need to paint vinyl siding, which attracts a lot of individuals to the option. Although adequate in many areas, vinyl siding is the least durable of the three options. Due to its lightweight nature, it can be easily damaged in extreme weather conditions. It also provides little to no insulation for the home.
Cedar siding is the most popular wood siding in the country. With proper maintenance, it can easily last 25 years. It can be painted or stained depending on what you prefer, and while it does require some upkeep, it is highly durable, insulating, and attractive.
As a home owner, you may not know which option is best for your specific needs and budget, which is why it is best to work with a siding contractor. A siding contractor can give you the facts you need about each of your options to make an informed decision. They can provide you with samples and information about colors, textures, and other visual aspects.
Your siding contractor can also explain the difference in durability and lifespan based on where you live, as well as an explanation of what upkeep will be needed. There is a clear give and take to each option. While vinyl is typically less expensive and requires the least amount of upkeep, it is also the least durable and has the shortest lifespan of the three options.
While there are many logical factors to consider, short and long-term costs are generally the most important for the majority of home owners. Some options may cost more upfront, but they have lower long-term costs, while others may be cheaper, but will cost more down the road.
Appearance is also very important for most homeowners, and the appearance of the three most popular options are very different. Cedar siding is one of the most popular due to its appearance.
