9 Types of Siding: Choosing the Best Option for Your Home

Your siding does a lot for your home. Besides aesthetics, your siding is a barrier protecting both you and your family from the elements. If you’re getting ready for a new build or need to replace your old siding, you’re in the right place. ECC Roofing & Siding is ready to help you every step of the way. We make sure to help you choose the best siding for your home. Our services ensure your siding looks stylish, is protected from the climate, and works with your budget.

1. Vinyl Siding

Vinyl is the most popular choice for siding in the United States. This is due to the material being quite affordable and low maintenance while still being durable. Vinyl is also fire-resistant and won’t ignite until the temperature reaches 750 degrees Fahrenheit. Vinyl siding comes in varying styles and textures to suit your style. The siding can even mimic the look of wood or stone. 

The downside of vinyl siding is that it fades in direct sun. UV exposure fades vinyl within 10 to 15 years, depending on your climate. It also doesn’t do well in low temperatures, which can cause cracks.

2. Fiber Cement Siding

This strong material is a combination of cement, sand, and cellulose fibers. Since cement is such a durable material, it’s resistant to fire, insects, and even rot. Plus, busy homeowners love that cement is low maintenance.

Fiber cement comes in various textures, including:

  • Brick
  • Stone
  • Wood

The downside of this is material costs. This material is heavier and more expensive to install. Only a professional should install fiber cement siding, so don’t try to DIY installation—no matter how tempting it is. Labor costs are calculated in addition to material costs. Fiber cement may seem expensive, but the cost-effective benefits will do wonders for your wallet. 

3. Wood Siding

Wood is an oldie but a goodie. Don’t let its traditional and natural look fool you. Wood’s versatile nature allows homeowners to paint or stain any way they want. Wood siding is a more eco-friendly option due to the material being natural and non-toxic. Homeowners don’t have to be stuck with just one style option. Styles include:

  1. Cedar
  2. Pine
  3. Redwood
  4. Engineered

Even though wood looks great, it’s the most flammable option. If you live in a hot, dry area prone to fires, then wood may not be the best option. Durability can also be an issue as the wood is susceptible to insects and rot. Keep in mind if you paint or stain your wood, you’ll need to do some regular upkeep.

4. Aluminum Siding

This type offers a modern and sleek aesthetic to your home. The metal material is lightweight but has multiple benefits. Metal is inherently rust-, rot-, and fire-resistant while also repelling insects. The material has the environmentally friendly benefit of being recyclable compared to other materials. 

Metal, however, is easier to dent. It’s also noisy when struck, meaning rain can cause a lot of noise. Those who care about aesthetics may be disappointed with the color options. That said, painters will still be able to paint metal siding in various colors.

5. Stone Veneer Siding

For homeowners seeking the stone aesthetic, the best option is Stone veneer. Real stone installation can be expensive but this synthetic alternative gives the stone look for a lower price. The lower price does not mean less quality. Stone veneer has the durability of stone while being much more low-maintenance compared to other materials.

Being a cheaper alternative to stone is great, stone veneer will be a pricier option when shopping for siding. Stone veneer installation is not an easy process. Homeowners need to have the skilled installation done for proper placement. This job would be better suited with professional assistance.

6. Brick Siding

Brick has been a mainstay building material for decades. The durability of brick stands out as one of the best. Their strong makeup gives your home a fire-resistant barrier while maintaining great temperature control. Brick is also low maintenance and, unlike materials such as vinyl, won’t fade quickly. In fact, brick can last upwards of 100 years!

The downside of brick is that the price is very high. When considering brick, factor in high material and labor costs. Effective brick siding also needs waterproofing to prevent leakage. Homeowners seeking color options may be disappointed as the variations are not extensive.

7. Stucco Siding

This type is a mixture of sand, water, and lime, giving a cement-like finish. This combination brings versatility in texture applications, giving homeowners customizable options. Stucco is a perfect option for homes in varied climates. The siding offers resistance to hot and cold weather while protecting against heavier precipitation. The thickness of stucco provides excellent insulation which helps decrease your monthly bill.

Careful about moisture, though. Too much moisture can crack stucco. Stucco requires more upkeep in comparison to other types. Homeowners should wash and paint to maintain good-looking stucco.

8. Engineered Wood Siding

Is wood siding not in your budget? Consider engineered wood. With engineered wood, you won’t have to worry about rot or pests. Engineered is resistant to wood-eating insects like termites and wood rot. In addition, the use of recycled materials makes this siding easy to maintain. It also peels and chips less frequently and only needs a repainting once every 10 years.

If you’re considering engineered wood, note that moisture can cause cracks in the resin. Cracks allow moisture to seep, causing possible damage. Moisture damage can also occur if the material is not installed correctly. To ensure proper installation, homeowners should seek professional siding services.

9. Insulated Siding

Insulated siding is made from vinyl and contains built-in insulation. The insulation adds extra protection against deterioration, such as warping. It also improves temperature control and reduces noise.

The comfortability will come with an expensive upfront cost. The price for the material alone is around 50% more than standard vinyl. The big factors are the price of the material itself but also the labor to put it in. Insulated vinyl lacks the varied style options that regular vinyl has.

Summary

Siding acts as a protective layer while giving your home a unique style. Different siding brings varying benefits such as durability and customization. For homeowners, selecting your new siding comes down to budget, style, and climate.

In preparation for new siding, it is important to always talk to a professional for advice. Professionals at ECC Roofing & Siding can advise you on everything from the siding that best suits your home through replacement. Need a repair? Our team is ready 24/7 to address any issues. We ensure your home looks better than ever! 

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