Choosing the right siding material for your home can be overwhelming - with so many options and price points out there, it’s easy to get confused about which type of siding will work best for your individual needs.
By understanding the purpose and benefits of each different type of siding, homeowners can make an educated decision when selecting what type of siding will best fit their home. It’s important to consider factors such as durability, aesthetics, energy efficiency, maintenance requirements, cost analysis, climate considerations, and environmental impacts before making your final decision.
Overview of Siding Types
When it comes to choosing siding for your home, there are several options available, and knowing the pros and cons of each type is important when making an informed decision. There are four main types of siding used in residential construction: vinyl, wood, metal, and fibre cement.
Vinyl siding is one of the most popular choices for modern homeowners due to the fact that it's inexpensive, durable, and low maintenance. Meanwhile, wood siding has been around for centuries, but can be expensive if natural wood such as cedar or redwood is chosen.
Metal siding offers excellent protection from extreme weather conditions, but also requires regular maintenance due to its susceptibility to rusting, while fibre cement boards provide good insulation and fire resistance capabilities while still being affordable.
Each material has unique characteristics that must be weighed against other factors when selecting the best option for your home and your needs.
Maintenance Needs for Different Siding Types
When selecting siding for your home, it is important to consider not just the aesthetic appeal of the various types available, but their maintenance requirements as well. Different materials require different levels of upkeep and care in order to maintain their longevity, including cleaning, repairs, and occasional replacements.
Vinyl siding is known for its low maintenance needs, requiring only an occasional rinse with a garden hose to keep it looking new. Fibre cement siding may need more frequent attention, such as periodic painting or caulking around joints subject to extreme weather conditions.
Wood clapboard, on the other hand, will require ongoing attention and treatment with stain or other preservatives every two years or so in order to prevent damage from moisture and insects.
The type of material used can also affect how involved your installation will be. For example, vinyl siding typically comes in panels that snap together quickly and easily compared to fibre cement boards, which must be cut using specialized tools at specific angles before being nailed into place.
Professional Installation for Siding Projects
When considering professional installation for your siding project, there are several factors to keep in mind. Firstly, make sure you determine which type of material you want installed on your home beforehand.
Next, research must then be conducted in order to find qualified professionals who have experience with installing different types of siding materials.
Finally, budgeting considerations should take place in order to determine how much money will be spent on labour costs associated with the project.
At the end of the day, choosing a new siding for your home should come down to more than just looks; consider how well each option fits into both your budget and timeline while also taking into account your location’s climate conditions. With careful consideration given to these aspects, chances are you'll find exactly what meets your needs.
At Custom Contracting Roofing & Exteriors, our team of professionals is here for you every step of the way when installing your new siding. Reach out to a member of our team today to get started in renovating your home to match the vision you’ve always wanted.
Frequently Asked Questions
Does Siding Need to Be Painted?
Vinyl siding usually does not need any additional paint, as it comes in many colours. However, certain varieties are available only in white or off-white shades, and may need painting if more vibrant colours are desired. Meanwhile, fibre cement boards commonly contain pigment additives, meaning they do not have to be repainted.
Aluminum siding typically requires no extra finish coatings; similarly, steel siding often includes factory finishes that eliminate the need for further coating.
Lastly, engineered wood and cedar shingles generally must be either stained or painted, depending on the look you have in mind for your home’s exterior.
How Long Does Siding Typically Last?
Generally speaking, most types of siding can last at least 10-15 years with proper maintenance and upkeep.
Vinyl and fibre cement may have a longer lifespan than other materials such as wood or aluminum, which can start to deteriorate after 5-7 years depending on exposure to the elements.
