Replacing your homes siding is a great way to add a great flair to your home, however, when considering all of the options it can turn into quite a daunting task. Just be sure to consider the main issues when deciding on siding, water resistance, energy efficiency, curb appeal, versatility, durability, and cost.
Vinyl :
Vinyl siding has been leader of the pack for quite a while due to it’s low cost versatility and easy maintenance. In fact, it’s the number one siding choice in the United States.
Pros
- Durable and typically is under warranty for 30-40 years after installation
- The color options of vinyl are endless, If you can imagine it, it’s probably out there
- It is versatile and can be textured like wood without its disadvantages
- Simple and easy to clean
- Finally, vinyl siding in probably the cheapest option when upgrading your exterior siding
Cons:
- Although it is water-resistant it is not waterproof. Poor installation can lead to water seeping behind the paneling which leads to mold and other issues
- It is known to warp and bend under extreme weather conditions of both heat & cold
- The color you choose is permanent. Unlike other siding options that can be repainted different colors, vinyl siding color choice is here to stay.
- Compared to something like brick siding; hail, baseballs, tree limbs, etc … can leave dents and gashes in the side of your home.
Wood:
Wood instantly makes a home feel inviting, not to mention is high on the aesthetically pleasure. But it does have a few drawbacks.
PRO
- Wood has the advantage of being easily replaced in small quantities if damaged. Other types of siding have to replace whole panels and sides
- Wood can be stained and painted in limitless colors, there are no bounds
- It’s lightweight feature makes it faster and easier to be installed. Reducing overall labor cost and time
CONS
- Can be stained/painted limitless colors, but this also is a drawback. It must be maintained
- Damage to wood can come from insects or water. Termites and other wood eating insects can wreak havoc
- The cost of maintenance adds up: stained every 2-3 years, and repainted every 4-5 years
- It’s not fire resistant
Fiber Cement:
Offering the look of masonry, stucco or wood at a lower cost, fiber-cement siding has become a popular siding choice for many homeowners. Fiber cement is made from a mixture of wood fibers, sand, and cement.
PROS
- Get the look and feel of real wood without the high cost or susceptibility to wood insects
- Fiber cement is extremely fire resistant
- Not prone to rot or decay like wood as well as resistant to salty air for coastal areas
- Easy to maintain and is guaranteed up front for 15 years not to fade or chip
- Offers many design and color options such as brick and stone textures
CONS
- For DIY the material is quite heavy requiring 2 people as well as special cutting tools
- More costly than its synthetic cousin vinyl siding by 2-3 times as much.
- it does have to be repainted every 12-15 years.
- Some evidence of delaminating or gapping of the material, although not frequent
- Color is not all the way through the product like vinyl, so touch ups will be required for chips and damage
Brick:
Brick siding is a very attractive choice, and the most expensive. It could also last a lifetime, so you really have to weigh your pros and cons here.
PROS
- Brick can easily last a lifetime, 100+ years, with just a general wash every now and then
- Brick siding is highly fire resistant
- No termites or wood ants will be found inside of brick siding
- Brick never needs to be repainted or finished, weathers beautifully, and will not fade or decay
- Because it’s fire resistant, termite proof, and durable, home insurance is usually lower
CONS
- Brick siding is definitely one of the more expensive options for siding, ranging from $10 – $15 per square foot.
- Color choice is set once you decide on the type of brick, no repainting allowed
- Over time the mortar joints can deteriorate and need to be replaced
- Long installation time if you are doing this yourself
Stone:
Stone siding is the grandfather of all siding and is by far the most expensive to install. The 2 options are real stone siding and faux stone siding (stone veneer).
Pros:
- Stone is impenetrable by mother nature and will last a lifetime
- Stone veneer gives you a similar look of stone but about half the cost
- Resistant to moisture, extreme temperatures, insects, and fire
- Zero maintenance other than being cleaned with a pressure washer
CONS
- Installing natural stone requires heavy labor and installation time driving up the cost
- Stone veneer can have the same moisture problems as stucco
- Faux Stone does not adapt well to extreme temperatures, freezing, and thawing.
Whatever material you choose for your house the longevity comes from the proper installation. Choose an Insured and Licensed Contractor.
