Siding is an investment in your home’s long-term comfort and durability. It also influences your house’s appearance and curb appeal.
Siding options range from wood, which adds warmth and character, to vinyl, which offers a wide color selection. Choose a material that reflects your maintenance preferences and budget. And learn some siding terminology so you can talk to your contractor like a pro. For professional help, contact Siding Companies In South Jersey.
Vinyl siding is an affordable plastic material that mimics the look of traditional wood siding. It’s durable and resists severe weather, such as high winds and heavy rain. It’s also available in a wide range of textures and simulated finishes (beaded lap, clapboard, and wood shingles), making it easy to achieve a custom look. Most manufacturers offer long-term warranties on vinyl.
Some homeowners worry that vinyl looks “cheap” or “plastic,” but higher-quality options are now available that convincingly mimic natural materials. In addition, vinyl does not attract insects like termites and can save on maintenance costs because it doesn’t need painting.
Another advantage is that vinyl is easy to install. It also does not absorb moisture as easily as other cladding materials, so it won’t warp or crack due to excessive humidity or rainfall. The downside of vinyl is that it can be prone to damage if exposed to very intense heat or cold. This is why it’s important to have a water-resistant barrier installed underneath it and to take steps to prevent leakage.
When installing vinyl, it’s a good idea to buy extra material to allow for waste during installation and future repairs. It can also be challenging to repair sections that are damaged or stained, as color fades can make it difficult to match the existing panel. If the panel becomes detached or cracked, it can let in water which could cause incalculable damage to the home’s framing.
In addition, vinyl can be brittle in very cold temperatures and may break if it is hit with a very strong wind. This makes it essential to ensure that a proper, code-compliant water-resistive barrier is installed underneath. This is especially crucial for areas that experience frequent extreme weather conditions. In these cases, a more resilient engineered siding is often the better option.
Wood
Wood siding is a classic choice for homeowners who want to maintain the natural beauty of their home. It is available in a wide variety of styles and colors to suit any taste. Wood is naturally durable, and if treated with paint or stain, it will stand up to the elements. Wood is also a renewable resource, and it is easy to repair. However, wood siding is expensive and requires regular maintenance to protect it from insects and moisture penetration.
Pine and cedar are the two most common types of wood used for home siding. Both are decay-resistant and long-lasting, but other types of wood are also available if a specific look is desired. Oak, for example, has a rich color and texture that is attractive in many styles of homes. Other popular choices include spruce and hemlock, which both offer a traditional look at an affordable price.
Composite woods are an alternative to natural wood, and they provide the look of real wood without the disadvantages of rotting or insect infestation. Unlike natural wood, these composites are not as easy to repair and may require more frequent maintenance than natural wood. In addition, these products are not as durable as natural wood and are not as environmentally friendly.
The most important factor in choosing a wood for your house is its ability to resist the weather and insects. A wood that is treated with a water-resistant preservative will last longer than untreated wood. It is also recommended that you choose a wood that is naturally resistant to termites, which are one of the most serious pests of wooden homes.
In addition to the aforementioned, other popular woods for home siding include Accoya, Thermowood, Cumaru, Siberian larch and oak. In order to get the best quality for your project, choose a wood that is rot-resistant, insect-resistant, and straight and flat. It should also be clear of splits and checks. Also consider the climate where you live when choosing your wood. Light-colored woods will reflect damaging UV rays and maintain cooler temperatures, while darker woods will absorb heat and make your house warmer.
Stucco
Stucco siding has a beautiful textured look that gives a home a distinct appearance. It has a long history, dating back to Greek construction in 1400 B.C. Traditional stucco is a plaster mixture of Portland cement, lime, sand, and water. It’s applied to a wood-frame house in layers. The first layer, known as the scratch coat, is spread over galvanized metal lath attached to the walls. This rough surface allows the next layer to adhere, the brown coat. The final layer is the finish coat, which can be hand-troweled to create a custom surface texture.
Stucco is durable and works well in hot or cold climates. It resists fire, rot, and termite infestations. Its composite materials also deter mold and mildew. The material can last for 50 to 100 years, and it can be reshaped to match the exterior of the home. However, it’s important to keep in mind that it does require a significant amount of maintenance to stay in good condition.
It’s more prone to show water and soil stains than other types of siding, so it needs to be repainted regularly. It’s also not as easy to install as vinyl planks, so it requires the skills of a professional contractor. In addition, it may not be tax-deductible like other forms of siding.
Another disadvantage is that stucco can be very expensive. It’s typically used in high-end homes and can cost more than $1 per square foot for materials. It’s also not the best option for a rental property because it can be difficult to maintain.
The thick material of stucco can absorb moisture, which can lead to mold and moss growth. It can also crack over time if it’s not properly sealed. Additionally, it’s not a good choice for homes in wet climates because it can get soaked by rain or snow. Additionally, it’s a good idea to seal stucco in subzero temperatures. If it’s not sealed, it can freeze and expand, which can cause cracks and leaks. This can be avoided by using an elastomeric sealer.
Aluminum
Aluminum has been a popular siding option for decades. It comes in both horizontal and vertical panels, allowing homeowners to custom-design the look of their home. Aluminum is available in a range of colors and textures, including wood grain and stucco patterns. The metal is also paintable, allowing homeowners to change the color of their siding as desired. Like vinyl, aluminum is a durable and cost-effective material that resists many types of damage, including fading and rot.
The disadvantage of aluminum is that it can dent, especially if exposed to intense hail or high winds. It also can make loud pinging noises when it rains, which can be irritating for some people. However, it is still an excellent choice for protecting your home from harsh weather conditions.
If you’re considering aluminum siding for your home, be sure to choose a heavier gauge than the standard 44. A heavier gauge will reduce the likelihood of significant dents. It’s also important to install aluminum with a vapor barrier to prevent moisture buildup, which can lead to corrosion and mildew.
Another advantage of aluminum is that it doesn’t require as much maintenance as other materials. It’s also not as prone to rot or insect infestation. However, it isn’t as insulating as wood or vinyl, so it may not be the best choice for areas with extreme temperatures.
When it comes to installation, you’ll want to hire a contractor with experience installing aluminum siding. The process starts with preparing the wall, which includes removing any existing materials and ensuring the surface is smooth. Then, a protective layer of underlayment is installed, followed by the aluminum siding itself.
Another advantage of aluminum siding is that it’s fireproof, which can be an asset in wildfire-prone areas. It’s also pest-proof, which can save your home from infestations of carpenter ants or termites.