There are a number of material options you can take into consideration when choosing siding. Your home may have already siding installed but knowing what options are available to you will aid you in choosing the right material when the time for a replacement comes.
Popular siding options include:
Vinyl
Vinyl is the most popular siding material in the United States today. It’s the least expensive of the materials listed here, and also possibly the simplest to install, allowing quick work of a home improvement project involving siding. Weather-proof, insect-proof, and not subject to rot, vinyl also requires little in the way of maintenance. Though mold or grime can accumulate on vinyl, they can easily be cleaned off with some soap and water.
Fiber Cement
Made from cement, sand, and cellulose, fiber cement offers the look of stone, stucco, or wood at a lower cost. Fiber cement siding may need the occasional repainting but it is also impact-resistant, fire- and insect-proof, does not rot, and will not deteriorate from exposure to the elements.
Wood
Wood siding remains a popular choice, despite its overall higher cost, because of how well it works to complement more traditional home styles. Aside from being more expensive than vinyl or fiber cement, wood also needs regular maintenance, possibly making it a handful for the busy homeowner. But because it is still extensively used in older, more traditional homes, wood siding is available in a large number of styles.
Stucco
Made from a mix of sand, cement, lime, and water, stucco can be shaped and textured to match a range of siding styles. Its biggest draw, however, is its ability to “breathe,” allowing air to pass through so moisture can evaporate quickly and working with moisture barriers to prevent water that gets behind the material from causing damage to a home.
Brick and Stone
Brick and stone are on the higher end of the scale, with durability matched only by the price of the siding. They can be applied as veneers, not included in the home’s main structure, and can last a lifetime, sometimes even outlasting the home itself with little more than occasional washing as maintenance.
Now that you know your material options, it’s now time to get to know what siding styles are available to you. Head on over to the next part to learn more!