Siding is your home’s first line of defense against the elements, much like bark on a tree or skin on your body. It protects your house from sun, rain, wind, and temperature extremes and plays a significant role in overall appearance.
In this guide, we’ll explore various siding options, their pros and cons, and key factors to consider when making your selection.
Types of Siding Materials
There are many siding materials available, each with its own set of characteristics, benefits, and drawbacks. Let’s explore some of the most popular options.
| Siding Type | Description | Pros | Cons | Cost per Square Foot |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Wood | Wood siding offers a timeless, natural look that many homeowners love. It’s available in various forms, including clapboards, paneling, shingles or shakes, and board and batten. Cedar is particularly popular due to its longevity. | >Natural, classic appearance >Can be painted or stained in various colors >Environmentally friendly and biodegradable >Good insulator | >Requires regular maintenance >Susceptible to rot, insects, and fire >Can be expensive | $1–15 |
| Vinyl | Vinyl siding is a popular choice due to its affordability, durability, and low maintenance requirements. It’s available in panels resembling clapboards, shakes, brick, or stone. | >Low maintenance >Affordable >Available in many colors and styles >Resistant to moisture and insects | >Can fade over time >Not fireproof >May crack in extreme cold >Less environmentally friendly | $3–12 |
| Fiber cement | Fiber cement siding is a durable option made from a mixture of wood pulp, fly ash, and Portland cement. It’s available in various styles, including clapboards, shingles, and vertical panels. | >Extremely durable >Fire-resistant >Low maintenance >Holds paint well | >Heavy and requires special installation >More expensive than some other options >Can be brittle if handled improperly | $5–14 |
| Stucco | Stucco is made by mixing sand and Portland cement and applying it over a wire lath substrate. It’s a popular choice in hot, dry environments. | >Easy to repair >Extremely durable | >Susceptible to cracks if not properly installed >Absorbs moisture and can grow mold | $7–9 |
| Stone and brick | If your walls are not made of stone or brick, siding of this type will usually be installed as a decorative veneer over a wood frame. | >Won’t rot >Fire- and insect-proof >Will last for decades, if not centuries | >Most expensive installation of any residential siding | $7–30 |
| Aluminum | Popular in the late ’40s and ’50s, panels of aluminum siding also mimicked clapboards. Aluminum siding has been replaced by vinyl, but it still covers many existing mid-century homes. | >Fire- and insect-proof >Won’t rot >Easy to paint and clean | >Dents easily >Difficult to repair >Harder to find at retail outlets | $3–6 |
| Engineered wood | Made of processed wood chips combined with resins and treated with zinc borate and wax, engineered wood can be made into clapboards, shingles, panels, and fascia/soffit material. | >Stronger than solid wood >Lightweight >Resists insects and water >Comes pre-primed | >Less eco-friendly >Looks less natural than real wood >Relatively newer product that hasn’t yet been tested over long periods of time | $1–6 |
| Exterior insulation finish systems (EIFS) | EIFS has six layers, including a water-resistive barrier, insulation board, and glass-fiber reinforcing mesh. It’s sometimes referred to as “synthetic stucco.” | >Can substantially increase energy efficiency >Lightweight and flexible | >Requires careful installation to avoid damage >Expensive >Difficult to clean | Up to $16 |
Remember that the prices above are for materials only and don’t include installation costs, which can significantly impact the total cost.
Factors To Consider When Choosing Siding
Several factors come into play when selecting siding for your home. These considerations will help you choose the best option for your specific needs and circumstances.
Climate and Weather Resistance
Your local climate is crucial in determining the most suitable siding material. Areas with high humidity or frequent rainfall require siding that resists moisture and mold. In regions prone to extreme temperature fluctuations, you’ll need siding that can withstand expansion and contraction without cracking or warping.
Maintenance Requirements
Different siding materials have varying maintenance needs. Wood siding, while beautiful, requires regular painting or staining to maintain its appearance and protective qualities. On the other hand, vinyl and fiber cement sidings are low-maintenance options that only need occasional cleaning to keep them looking their best.
Cost Considerations
The cost of siding includes both materials and installation. While options such as vinyl may have lower upfront costs, consider long-term expenses such as maintenance and potential replacement. Choosing the best siding for a house often involves balancing initial investment with long-term value.
Aesthetic Appeal
Siding significantly impacts your home’s curb appeal. Consider how different materials and styles complement your home’s architecture and your personal preferences.
Some materials, like wood, offer a classic look, while others such as vinyl provide a wide range of color options to suit various tastes.
Energy Efficiency and Insulation
Siding affects your home’s energy efficiency. Some materials, such as EIFS, offer better insulation than others.
Additionally, insulated siding options are available that can help reduce energy costs. When choosing siding, consider its R-value (a measure of thermal resistance) and how it might impact your home’s overall energy performance.
Siding Installation Process
Installing siding is a complex process that often requires professional expertise. Understanding the basics can help you communicate effectively with your contractor and ensure a quality installation.
Preparing Your Home for Siding Installation
Your home needs to be properly prepared before installation starts. This includes removing old siding (if applicable), repairing any damaged sheathing, and installing a weather barrier. Proper preparation helps your new siding perform effectively.
Installation Steps
The installation process varies depending on the type of siding. It generally involves measuring and cutting siding pieces, attaching them to the house from the bottom up, and ensuring proper overlap for water resistance.
Contractors pay special attention to corners, windows, and doors to ensure a watertight seal.
Common Installation Challenges
Some common challenges in siding installation include dealing with uneven walls, setting up proper ventilation, and managing material expansion and contraction. Professional installers have the experience and tools to address these issues effectively.
Maintenance and Care for Different Siding Types
Proper maintenance can significantly extend the life of your siding and keep your home looking its best. Here’s how to care for some of the most popular siding materials:
Wood Siding Maintenance
Wood siding requires regular inspection for signs of damage or decay. We recommend cleaning it annually and repainting or restaining every three to five years or as needed. Promptly address any issues, such as peeling paint or small cracks, to prevent more serious damage.
Vinyl Siding Care
Vinyl siding is low-maintenance but benefits from annual or twice-annual cleaning with a soft brush and mild soap solution. You can pressure wash vinyl siding but start with the lowest setting. If the siding bends or moves while washing, you’re using too much force.
You can replace damaged vinyl siding needed to maintain your home’s appearance.
Fiber Cement Siding Upkeep
Fiber cement siding requires minimal maintenance. You can typically get by with an annual cleaning with a garden hose and soft brush. If possible, we recommend following the manufacturer’s instructions for cleaning.
To keep it looking fresh, repaint every 10 to 15 years or as needed.
Stucco Siding Maintenance
We recommend cleaning stucco two to three times a year. Using a hose with a spray nozzle or a power washer on the lowest setting, spray away dirt, working from top to bottom. You can use a brush to remove more stubborn stains, but be careful not to damage the stucco.
How To Choose the Right Siding Contractor
Selecting a reputable contractor is crucial for a successful siding project. Look for licensed and insured professionals with good references. Get multiple quotes, and don’t hesitate to ask questions.
Questions To Ask Potential Contractors
Before hiring a contractor, ask about their experience with different siding materials, their process for handling unexpected issues, and what warranties they offer on labor and materials. Understanding their approach can provide peace of mind and help ensure the project meets your expectations. A good contractor should also be able to provide a detailed estimate and timeline for the project.
Checking Credentials and References
Verify that your chosen contractor has the necessary licenses and insurance to work in your area. Request references from previous clients and follow up to get feedback on their workmanship and reliability. Online reviews and ratings can also offer valuable insights into a contractor’s reputation.
Siding Repair and Replacement: When and How
Regular inspections can help you catch siding issues early. Small problems like loose or cracked pieces can often be repaired, while more extensive damage may require replacement. Signs of siding issues include the following:
- Cracking, warping, or loose pieces
- Faded or peeling paint
- Mold growth
- Pest infestations
- Unexplained increases in your energy bills
A contractor can tell you how much it will cost to repair your siding and whether it would be more cost-effective to replace all of it. While some minor repairs can be tackled by handy homeowners, we recommend leaving larger repairs or full replacements to the professionals. Incorrect installation or repair can lead to water damage and other issues down the line.
Environmental Impact of Different Siding Materials
The environmental impact of siding varies by material. For example, wood is a renewable resource but requires regular treatments that may contain harmful chemicals, while vinyl is not biodegradable but is long-lasting and recyclable.
When evaluating environmental impact, consider both the production process and the material’s lifespan.
Sustainable Siding Options
For eco-conscious homeowners, sustainable siding options are available. For instance, reclaimed wood or recycled high-density polyethylene (HDPE) siding offer environmentally friendly alternatives.
Additionally, choosing durable materials that require less frequent replacement can also reduce your environmental footprint.
The Role of Energy Efficiency
Siding can also contribute to your home’s energy efficiency. Insulated siding options and materials with high R-values help reduce energy consumption by improving the home’s thermal envelope. Energy-efficient siding not only lowers utility bills but also minimizes environmental impact.
Our Conclusion
Choosing the right siding for your home involves balancing factors, including durability, maintenance requirements, cost, and aesthetic appeal. Ultimately, the best siding choice depends on your specific needs, budget, and local climate.
By understanding the pros and cons of each option and considering long-term costs and benefits, you can make an informed decision that will protect and beautify your home for years to come.