What is the best siding for my home?
Choosing the best siding for your home is no easy decision, as each type of material available comes with its own benefits and costs. There are several factors to consider when picking a siding material for your home, including the location of your home, its architectural style, cost, durability, energy efficiency, and aesthetic appeal. Luckily, we’ve compiled a list of the some of the most popular siding materials, including both their advantages and disadvantages.
Vinyl
Vinyl siding is the most popular material used, and is often touted for its versatility and several coloring options, making it easily customizable. Vinyl is a very inexpensive option and is highly durable, lasting 30-40 years in most cases. Vinyl is also highly durable, requires minimal maintenance, and is energy efficient, saving you money during cold winters.
Although Vinyl is durable, it can burn, melt, crack, or rattle. Vinyl can be painted, but requires vinyl-safe paint and treatment to do so. Unlike sturdier materials such as brick, vinyl can dent and leave gashes in the side of your home. Moreover, after repairing a broken piece, newer pieces are highly visible as it is easier to see where pieces lap. Lastly, when you buy cheap vinyl, it definitely looks cheap.
Brick
Brick siding will give your home a rustic, authentic look, and is highly durable. With a general wash here and there, brick siding can last over 100 years! Brick is more fire-resistant than most other alternatives, is resistant to termites and wood ants, and does not need to be painted or stained because it ages wonderfully.
However, because of its weight, brick requires structural support. Brick also necessitates professional installation and cannot be easily completed by the homeowner. Brick is also one of the most expensive options, and in many cases, the mortar joints in between the bricks need to be replaced and maintained.
Wood
Wood is aesthetically pleasing and will give your home a very natural look. Wood is easily replaceable in small quantities, can be stained and painted in limitless combinations, is highly efficient, resistant to impact, and one of the most eco-friendly options.
Wood often requires more upkeep and painting than other materials. Wood is also flammable, susceptible to rot and insects, and can be highly expensive depending on the type of wood used.
Metal
Metal is usually associated with a more modern look and can give your house a very unique aesthetic if installed properly. Metal cannot mold or rot, requires minimal maintenance, is fire-resistant, does not fade, and is energy efficient and eco-friendly.
Despite these advantages, metal is susceptible to denting, cannot be painted, can fade and rust, and can be difficult to repair in small quantities, as the “patch” that is added will look obvious and stand out. In salty environments, metal sidings can rust.
Although we’ve listed some popular siding options, there are several more materials available, including plastic, fiberglass, stucco, fiber cement, and many more. Each material is unique and comes with its own costs and benefits. Regardless of which material you choose, be sure to do your research and make the best decision for your home.
