What type of siding should I put on my house?
Choosing the right product for the exterior of your house is a big job. Not only does it have to protect you and your family from Mother Nature, it must continue to look appealing no matter what she throws your way. If you have been thinking about boosting your curb appeal, and you don't know how to decide which type of siding to choose, this comparison will help.
Engineered Wood Siding
If you enjoy the authentic look of wood siding, your next step is to decide between traditional wood siding and engineered wood siding. Both can give you a traditional clapboard or shingle-style exterior, but beyond this similarity, wood and engineered wood have a considerable amount of differences.
Traditional wood siding has slowly declined in popularity among homeowners due to it's high cost and maintenance demands. Engineered wood trim and siding improves on all the characteristics of natural wood, which is why it has become a top choice among remodelers and homeowners.
Maintenance:
Engineered wood siding is relatively simple. Regular cleaning with a mild detergent and water solution, along with occasional inspection for any signs of damage or wear, is recommended. additionally, it's important to keep the siding well-sealed and painted or stained to protect against moisture and UV damage. periodic resealing or repainting may be necessary to maintain its appearance and durability over time.
Composition:
Engineered wood combines treated wood strands or fibers and adhesive resins to produce a composite material that is stronger than natural wood. The addition of special water-treated waxes and zinc borate allows engineered wood to resist decay, even in rainy and humid environments.
Termite Resistant:
Because engineered siding is treated with zinc borate, it will resist damage from termites. without proactive pest management, traditional wood siding is highly susceptible to termite infestation.
Pricing:
Engineered wood siding offers a middle ground in pricing between vinyl and fiber cement, providing a balance of affordability and durability. this product resents a compelling choice for those seeking a durable, cost-effective solution with a natural aesthetic.
Fiber Cement Siding
Fiber Cement Siding has become an extremely popular choice amongst homeowners due to it's versatility and low maintenance. This composite material is made from cement and cellulose fibers that are compressed and formed into different siding products, including clapboards, panels, batten boards, and trim. Fiber cement also takes paint exceptionally well, which means longer life for any paint job.
Another perk homeowners enjoy about fiber cement is the long-standing warranties. It is not uncommon to see 50-year warranties attached to this product. This is a true testament to the material's longevity.
Durable:
Fiber cement is a fade-resistant material that is design to hold it's color for 15 or more years. It does not swell, warp, or rot which helps standout from other options.
Fireproof:
Due to the composition of the product, fiber cement is non-combustible; it will not burn.
Aesthetic:
The versatility of fiber cement is unlike any other material in the industry. There are plenty of style and color options to choose from. See brochures for more information.
Pricing:
Fiber cement does have a higher upfront cost for materials and labor than most of the other siding options. However, it's durability make it a worthwhile investment.
Vinyl Siding
Vinyl siding is tough, long-lasting, affordable and easier to install than the other options we've discussed. Vinyl siding has been an easy and economical choice for homeowners for a long time. This type of siding offers a great selection of colors and styles. It also offers great durability for the homeowner.
Versitile:
Vinyl siding comes in many different styles such as dutch-lap, board and batten, shingle and it can even come insulated.
Low Maintenance:
Vinyl siding is about as low maintenance as it gets. It is as simple as washing it off every year or two to get rid of dust and dirt build-up.
Aesthetic:
For years, vinyl siding had very little innovation. Today's vinyl siding offers a variety of textures, colors and seamless styles that make it versatile enough for any design taste.
Pricing:
This option is the best economical choice for siding products. It won't break the bank and will provide a great solution for years to come.
Ready to get started? Call Element Exteriors today for your free siding quote.