In 2015 alone, Americans spent over $326 billion in repairs and renovations to improve their homes.
When it comes to changing the exterior of your home, no decision is too small. What goes on the outside not only impacts your home’s value, it also affects your home’s efficiency and durability.
That’s why choosing the right siding option for your home is so important. As your largest exterior element, you’ll want to carefully weigh the options before making the investment.
Keep reading to find out what the best house siding options are.
How to Choose Siding
Your siding is often a large part of your budget. It’s what protects your home from the elements and it’s one of the first things people see. Of all the material decisions you make during a renovation, choosing the right siding is vital.
The first item you’ll want to consider is your budget. Once you have an idea of how much you can spend on your siding, you can limit your search to those that fit the limit.
When choosing your siding option, keep these 6 items in mind:
- Is it water resistant? This type of siding will last longer.
- Is it energy efficient? Insulating siding will save you on energy costs in the long run.
- Is it durable? Consider this in relation to wear and tear as well as the climate in which you live.
- Does it add curb appeal? Make sure that your siding matches the overall aesthetic of your exterior.
- Is it versatile? Think about what materials can efficiently and effectively be used on the home. Certain characteristics of your home may limit you to specific siding options.
- How easy is it to install? If you choose a material that’s difficult to install, you’ll have to add the cost of an installer to your budget. Check out this company for a free quote.
Once you have a better idea of your siding needs, you’ll need to know what your options are.
Most Popular Siding Options
The list of siding options is extensive. We’ve narrowed it down to the most common siding options on the market today.
Vinyl
The most affordable siding option currently available, vinyl is available in more than 300 colors. You can choose from vinyl shakes, shingles, horizontal and vertical panels, beaded designs, fish scales, and many more profile options. To add a personal touch to your home and improve curb appeal, you can add vinyl accents and decorative trim as well.
Vinyl is easy to install and, other than the occasional wash, requires very little maintenance. This extremely durable option often comes with a lifelong and transferable guarantee. You can customize them with UV protection for improved durability and lifespan and also add insulation for higher energy efficiency.
Plaster
You might know this as stucco. That’s the mix of portland cement, sand, lime, and water that’s tough enough for any climate and requires minimum upkeep. Stucco is also versatile in that it can be installed on otherwise tricky curved surfaces. Plus, you can use it inside and outside.
Stucco is an affordable siding option that works on a variety of architectural home styles. It’s now available in a synthetic version that’s more energy efficient and water/moisture resistant.
Metal
Manufacturers of metal siding have an array of options to choose from. These include steel, copper, zinc, and aluminum. The biggest benefit to using metal is its versatility in being formed into shapes, curves, and edges.
There’s not much else on the market that can outperform the strength and longevity of metal. And, in modern homes, this siding option can offer a unique and interesting aesthetic.
Brick
Brick is one of the most durable siding options. It can withstand wind, moisture, and even earthquakes. It doesn’t fade, so it doesn’t require any maintenance or painting.
Brick also provides noise control and energy efficiency. It doesn’t break, dent, or rot and it offers a timeless aesthetic appeal that’s reflected in resale values.
As an added bonus, clay brick is a green material. This sustainably-sourced, natural material helps you reduce your environmental impact.
Stone
Similar to brick in terms of durability and maintenance, stones like limestone, granite, and slate, offer a unique and aesthetically -pleasing siding option that’s also environmentally friendly.
Having stone installed often costs more than other siding options. However, with little to maintenance and lots of efficiency, stone offers long-term savings.
Cement Board
Cement board is a combination of sand, cellulose, and sand. It’s cured and formed into boards and panels that can be used as a water-resistant, noncombustible, termite-resistant, alternative to wood siding.
Wood
Any wood product requires a high degree of maintenance and high costs (both upfront and long term). To prevent weather damage, you’ll have to perform yearly maintenance. And replacing or repairing damaged or rotted wood can be costly.
One popular option for wood siding is shakes and shingles. Shakes and shingles are aesthetically pleasing and offer the incredible insulating benefits that come with any wood siding option. These longer-lasting alternatives to wood boards can also be treated with a fire-retardant substance.
Another alternative to natural wood is thermally-treated wood. Exposing North American ash to heat and steam makes the wood more resistant to moisture. It also staves away rot and makes the wood last longer between maintenance.
Is It Time to Renovate Your Home?
Choosing the right siding options means considering the right factors. You’ll have to consider what your needs are in terms of durability, aesthetics, versatility, and installation. When you know what fits your budget and particular needs, you can then make an informed decision as to your best house siding.
But siding is only one potential renovation that can impact both the value and comfort of your home. When you’re looking for home improvement ideas, look no further. We have all the tips, advice, and trends you’re looking for on our blog.
Leave a Reply