Is the look of the siding on your home making you seriously think about moving? Beyond the aesthetic issues, if there is widespread damage to the siding, you definitely need to look at getting it replaced. With so many different types of siding, though, it can be hard to figure out which is right for you.
The importance of siding on a home cannot be overstated, especially if exterior damage starts to affect the inside of the home. Siding plays a crucial role in both the curb appeal and functionality of your home, so it’s a decision that shouldn’t be taken lightly.
Siding is your home’s protective shield against the elements. It serves as a barrier, keeping rain, snow, wind, and harmful UV rays at bay. Properly installed and well-maintained siding ensures that your home remains structurally sound and free from moisture-related issues like rot and mold, which can be incredibly costly to repair.
Beyond that, siding is one of the first things people notice about your home–and this goes beyond the paint color. The right siding choice can enhance the overall look and style of your home, potentially increasing its resale value, not to mention the pride you feel in your home.
If you are thinking about re-siding your home–either because it’s falling apart or you just want to update the look of your home–there are many options to choose from. This is a big investment, and we want to make sure you are making an informed decision. Here are the different types of house siding options–or you can just give us a call and we can discuss what’s right for you.
What are the Different Types of House Siding?
While looks matter, you don’t want to completely forget about the main purpose of the siding, either. Here are the most common types of house siding:
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- Vinyl
- Aluminum
- Wood
- Composite
- Fiber Cement
Vinyl
Vinyl siding is often one of the most budget-friendly options for siding, making it appealing for new homeowners who may have financial constraints. It doesn’t require painting, staining, or sealing, which makes it relatively low maintenance. It comes in a wide variety of colors and styles and is resistant to rot, pests, and moisture, making it a long-lasting choice that can withstand various weather conditions.
But there are some downsides. While it is relatively inexpensive to install, it also looks relatively inexpensive on closer inspection. Vinyl siding can be more prone to cracking or denting if it’s hit with significant force, such as an errant throw of a baseball. It doesn’t offer the same level of insulation as some other materials and can be prone to melting or warping in extreme heat.
Ultimately, the choice of vinyl siding for your home depends on your budget, aesthetic preferences, and priorities. Vinyl siding can be a practical and cost-effective choice for many new homeowners, but it’s essential to ensure it aligns with your long-term goals for your home’s appearance and performance.
Aluminum
Aluminum or metal siding is highly durable and resistant to rot, pests, fire, and moisture and it can withstand various weather conditions, making it a long-lasting choice. This is a low-maintenance option as well as it doesn’t need painting and is easy to clean. Aluminum siding comes in a variety of colors and finishes, so you can get the look you want.
Like vinyl, however, it can be more prone to dents and scratches if it’s hit with significant force or impacted by objects. It’s not a very insulative choice and its popularity has faded over time, making it less accessible. And, let’s face it–it doesn’t look all that great upon closer inspection.
Different Types of House Siding: Wood
It’s tough to beat the warm and natural look of real wood siding (lap siding or cedar shake). It adds a timeless, classic charm to your home’s exterior and is highly customizable. It can be painted again in the future if you want to update your home’s appearance and provides natural insulative properties that help with your home’s heating and cooling.
If individual boards become damaged or show signs of wear, they can often be replaced without the need to replace the entire siding. All of that being said, there is much more maintenance to consider. Moisture, rot, pests, and fire are all constant worries, not to mention repainting every few years due to chipping or cracking paint. And wood is much more expensive than other options on the list.
Choosing wood siding can add character and beauty to your home, but it’s important to be aware of the maintenance requirements and costs associated with it. Regular upkeep is crucial to ensure its longevity and preserve its aesthetic appeal.
Composite/Engineered Wood
Composite wood siding is designed to mimic the look of real wood without the high maintenance requirements. It offers the warmth and beauty of wood without the drawbacks. Engineered wood is less susceptible to issues like warping, cracking, and splitting compared to natural wood siding. Composite wood siding is available in various styles, textures, and colors, allowing you to achieve a customized look for your home and some options come with built-in insulation.
And while it’s less expensive than natural wood, it still has a higher upfront cost compared to some other siding materials. Although it’s more durable than natural wood, composite wood siding can still be susceptible to impacts and damage, especially in areas with severe weather conditions. And the overall appearance may not be consistent depending on quality.
Composite or engineered wood siding can be an excellent choice for new homeowners who want the look of wood siding without the hassle of wood siding. But it will still carry some of the disadvantages of cedar lap or shake material.
Fiber Cement
Fiber cement siding–such as James Hardie siding–is perhaps the most durable standard siding you will find. It repels rot, pests, and moisture, can withstand harsh weather conditions, and is fire resistant, making it a long-lasting choice. There is virtually no maintenance required, outside of hosing it off a couple of times a year. It’s much thicker than vinyl or aluminum siding, which will make your home more energy-efficient.
Hardie Plank also offers a wide range of styles and colors, allowing you to customize the look of your home to match your preferences. This includes wood grain, board and batten, or smooth faces for a more modern look. There are countless options for trim pieces and other points of interest.
This product will also last 40 years, 50 years, or even longer with proper upkeep. That longevity will come at a price of course, but if you plan on keeping your home for a long time, you can actually save money in the long run. Instead of replacing your siding two or three times over the years, fiber cement is one of those set-it-and-forget-it products.
James Hardie fiber cement siding is a popular choice for homeowners looking for a durable, low-maintenance, and visually appealing siding option. And while you can’t ignore the upfront siding costs of the material, it’s a long-term investment in your home. Overall, many homeowners find that the benefits of fiber cement siding outweigh the potential drawbacks.
Different Types of House Siding: What’s the Right Option for You?
When buying your first home or choosing the right type of siding replacement, remember that when you invest in high-quality siding, it’s an investment in the long-term comfort, durability, and aesthetics of your home. It’s a decision that can enhance your living experience and provide peace of mind for years to come.
So, take the time to explore the pros and cons of your choice and consider your budget and maintenance preferences. Choose siding that not only protects your home but also reflects your personal style and vision for your dream home. There are several different types of house siding, each with its own unique characteristics and advantages.
The choice of siding material depends on factors such as budget, climate, maintenance preferences, and the desired aesthetic for your home. It’s important to consider these factors when selecting the right siding for your specific needs.
Whatever Your Choice, Work With the Experts
When it comes to siding installation and replacement, experienced contractors are truly the experts. They have the skills and knowledge needed to navigate the intricacies involved in the process, from selecting the right materials to ensuring that the work is up to code. By choosing to work with a seasoned professional, you can rest assured that every aspect of your project will be completed with the utmost care and precision.
So, instead of taking on this challenging task yourself, why not entrust it to the professionals who know how to get the job done right? Your siding will look better, last longer, and provide greater protection for your home when you have the help of a skilled contractor on your side.
Joseph Ketner Construction has decades of experience replacing and installing siding and trim on homes throughout the Portland area. We know how important it is to keep your home protected from the elements, especially during these times of increasing temperatures and rising fire concerns.
At Joseph Ketner Construction, we take great pride in our long-standing relationship with James Hardie and its incredible line of products. Being a James Hardie Preferred Remodeler is a true honor and one that we are thrilled to receive. This designation is only given to a select few siding companies throughout the country, and we are proud to be included in this exclusive group.
James Hardie Elite Preferred Contractor
And we couldn’t be happier to have earned the James Hardie Elite Preferred Contractor status. This designation is not only prestigious, but it also reflects our ongoing commitment to efficient and standardized business processes. Knowing that we have achieved the highest designation in the contractor alliance program is a great source of pride for us.
We take our job seriously and understand the value of regular and unscheduled installation audits to ensure that our work is always up to the high standards of James Hardie. We are excited to continue our partnership with this fantastic company and help more clients achieve their home improvement dreams.
Our commitment to providing the highest quality craftsmanship, coupled with the superior performance of James Hardie products, has allowed us to excel in our industry. We look forward to continuing our partnership with James Hardie and delivering exceptional results for you.
