Siding is one of the most important features of the exterior of your home. The siding on your home will protect your home from bad weather and determine your home’s curb appeal.

When it’s time to choose the siding for your home, you may feel overwhelmed about all of the options. Homeowners can choose between sidings made of brick, vinyl, cellular PVC, wood, stone, stucco, aluminum, ceramic tile, or stainless steel. Many homeowners struggle to decide which siding is best for their home.

Here are a few tips to help you choose appropriate siding for your home.

Determine Your Budget

When you install siding on your home, you often increase the value of your home. However, new siding can be expensive to install and maintain. Before you decide what type of siding you want for your home, determine what you can afford.

Budget carefully the amount of money you can afford to spend on siding as well as labor fees. Once you have determined your budget, you can then select a contractor and move forward with the installation process.

Consider the Climate

When you begin to look at siding options, consider the climate in your area. For instance, if you live in a sunny area, bright-toned siding will often be overemphasized by bright sunlight. On the other hand, homes in rainy areas may look dreary and bland if they have darker-toned siding. Choose a siding that will make your home look beautiful even amidst common weather patterns in your area.

Additionally, consider durable siding if you live in an area that commonly experiences snow or rain storms. You can avoid having to replace your siding when you consider the weather hazards in your area and plan accordingly.

Research Possible Materials

Homeowners can choose from a wide selection of siding materials. The types of siding vary by flexibility, durability, longevity, and customization. Some of the most popular siding materials include the following:

• Aluminum: Aluminum siding is often used as an alternative to vinyl. Aluminum is low-maintenance and fireproof. Usually, this siding option won’t crack like vinyl, but it could fade or become dented over time.
• Cedar shingles: Cedar shingles are made from natural cedar and can be stained brown, gray, or other earth-toned colors. Cedar shingles are ideal for homeowners who want wooden siding without frequent maintenance.
• Fiber cement: Fiber cement siding can be made to resemble stucco, wood, or masonry if needed. Fiber cement looks natural and is a less expensive option compared to wooden sidings. This material is durable, termite-proof, and fireproof.
• Steel: Steel siding is one of the most resilient sidings available. Steel will rarely bulge, shrink, or change under extreme temperatures. Steel siding also comes in wood-like textures that are ideal for modern homes.
• Vinyl: Vinyl is one of the most cost-friendly sidings available. Vinyl won’t flake or rot over time like some other materials. However, vinyl siding is made from plastic and could emanate toxic chemicals if ever burned.
• Wood: Many homeowners prefer the beauty that natural, solid wood provides. Common wood types used for siding include cedar, pine, redwood, spruce, and cypress. Keep in mind that wood siding does require periodic painting and staining. However, this siding option often outlasts synthetic woods and vinyl.

Although many of these siding materials come in a variety of colors, not all colors are available for every material. Make sure the color you want is available with your chosen material before you make a decision.

If you are unsure about which type of material is best for your home, contact us today. We can help answer any questions about different materials, and get your project started in the right direction. Feel free to fill our our form to the right for a free estimate, or call us today at 612-722-1448.