As you prepare to welcome spring, you are probably already planning some home maintenance and improvement projects, from cleaning your roofing and gutters to having your windows replaced. If getting new siding is among your priorities this year, then you’re reading the right blog.
This post provides homeowners like you with a simple and basic guide to choosing siding material that will bring you all the benefits you should expect from the best.
Choosing Siding Material: What Are the Options
To make sure that you choose the siding material that most closely meets your needs, you need to learn about your options first. Here are some of the most popular materials currently on the market:
Wood. Few building materials have the natural appeal of authentic wood siding. Wood is naturally energy-efficient, as it is a good insulator. However, it doesn’t come cheap, and the ones that are blemish-free or which have beautiful grain patterns can cost more. Wood also requires extensive maintenance if you want it to last.
Metal. Steel and aluminum siding are known for being highly durable. They are resistant to dents, pest infestation, and fire. Unfortunately, metal siding is not readily available in all areas, and often is not available in options that are as aesthetically appealing as other materials.
Vinyl. Originally developed as an alternative to aluminum, vinyl siding is your cheapest option. Besides requiring virtually no maintenance, except for the usual cleaning, it is also lightweight, which makes for easier installation. Newer vinyl siding also comes in a variety of colors and finishes. The only downside to vinyl is that it may warp and crack when exposed to extreme temperatures. Thus, proper installation that allows for contraction is a must.
Fiber Cement. If you like the look of wood but do not like ithe maintenance it requires, then fiber cement would be a good alternative. Fiber cement looks, cuts, and installs like wood, but as it is primarily made of concrete, it will not rot or get damaged by termites.
Basic Factors to Consider When Selecting Siding Material
When searching for siding material, there are a number of important considerations. Among them, the top three factors one must prioritize are:
Aesthetics. Your siding will be seen even from afar. It will define the general look of your home. Thus, you need to make sure the material not only looks good, but that it also represents and complements your home’s theme.
Durability. You need siding that is durable enough to endure the climate and temperatures in your area.
Energy Efficiency. Check the R-value of your siding material to ensure that it can help in making your home energy-efficient. Make sure you know what will be needed as far as insulation for your home is concerned.
Choosing Siding Color
The color of your new siding will impact not only your home’s aesthetics, but its value, too. Choosing the right hues and color combinations may not be as easy as you may have thought, however. Here are some things to consider when selecting a color for your siding.
- Your neighborhood. Check out the color schemes of the houses that you like in your neighborhood. If you find ones that have a similar style as yours, then the color of their siding might be suitable for your home as well.
- Your home’s style. The style of your home can provide clues as to which color you should go for. If you have a craftsman home, you’ll probably want to go with neutral colors or color combinations. Meanwhile, if your home is more contemporary, you can play more freely with the colors you love.
- Your roof’s color. Choose a siding color that complements your roof’s. If you have a dark-colored roof, choosing light hues for your siding may work well.
There are quite a number of things to consider when choosing your new siding. Spend ample time doing your research. It will also help to consult with a home improvement professional who has the expertise to help make selection easier for you.
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Author Bio:
Chris Keeter is a proud member of the All States Exteriors team, a business where every team member and every client is treated like part of the family. It is this professional yet caring environment that truly sets All States apart and allows them to provide the highest quality exterior home improvements in Wichita and Kansas City. Chris enjoys sharing his knowledge and experience by writing blogs during his free time.
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