Choosing the best siding types for your home is essential for protecting your home’s structure and keeping pests out. Over 53 percent of homeowners in the United States have used vinyl siding for their home exterior at some point, but it’s fair to wonder if it’s the best option for your household. Narrowing your siding options is an essential part of becoming a homeowner.
Some siding types provide more curb appeal to your home, while others are perfect for protection. Learning more about the siding types will help you find the options that stand out to you and add to your house’s aesthetic.
Fortunately, today is the day you’ll learn about the pros and cons of the most popular siding options for your home’s exterior. Continue reading to find the perfect cladding option today!
Vinyl Siding
Vinyl siding is one of the most popular options because it’s affordable and durable. You’ll find several stunning color options to add to your home’s curb appeal and create the perfect exterior design. You can’t go wrong with vinyl if you’re shopping for home upgrades while on a budget.
After installing it on your home’s exterior, it’s also one of the easiest siding options to maintain. Options like natural wood siding need much maintenance to keep them looking pristine. A hose and soapy water are enough to clean debris off your vinyl siding and keep it looking new.
Vinyl siding is also much easier to install than other siding types for your home. It’s still a job that requires a professional installer, but the process is quick compared to heavier and more complex siding systems. The easy installation saves you money on labor costs.
The drawback of choosing vinyl for your home’s siding is the seams. Vinyl will disappoint you if you seek a seamless look for your home’s exterior.
You’ll also want to check your vinyl siding for cracks after severe storms. High winds will damage the siding and cause cracks to form. Work with APCO to get vinyl siding installed on your home.
Wood Siding
Wood siding is another common option, and homeowners love wood siding for its classic appearance. You can stain or paint it to match your home’s existing style. It’s one of the most versatile options when comparing siding types for your next home upgrade.
It’s an eco-friendly siding option since it has a negligible environmental impact. Wood is a renewable, biodegradable siding source that doesn’t produce pollutants.
Wood siding is also a sure way to improve your home value if you’re preparing to put your home on the market. Go with wood vs. vinyl siding if your goal is increasing home value and getting a more significant return from the buyer.
You’ll also love the way wood siding transforms your home’s appearance. It’s the perfect investment for old homes that need a bit of TLC to enjoy their former glory. Choose from several types of wood to bring out your home’s best appearance.
The primary drawback of wood siding is the maintenance required. It’s the most labor-intensive siding option on the market. Staining your wood siding consistently is best, with recommendations stating to provide this treatment every two years.
It’s also a vulnerable siding material. Between termites, ants, and woodpeckers, you’ll need to take steps to maintain and protect it.
Fiber Cement Siding
Fiber cement siding is created by mixing clay, cement, sand, and wood pulp. The material can be molded to fit several styles and looks for your home’s exterior. It’s not a top choice for every homeowner, but it has its merits.
It’s one of the most durable siding options available to homeowners. You won’t need to worry about your siding expanding and contracting with the weather when you choose fiber cement siding for your next home upgrade. Fiber cement protects against the wear and tear caused by Mother Nature.
You’ll also love the limited maintenance required for this siding option. Repairs are rare when you install these siding types on your home. The primary drawback to consider is the difficulties of installing fiber cement siding.
Stucco
Stucco is an option that offers many of the same benefits you’ll enjoy with fiber cement siding. It’s a low-maintenance option to protect your home from the elements. Stucco also offers fire-resistant properties to keep your home safe during summer and wildfire season.
If you’re looking for siding options to boost your home’s curb appeal, stucco is an excellent investment. Your home exterior will enjoy a classy and elegant appearance with durability to match.
The primary concern you should have with stucco siding is the possibility of developing cracks. Stucco expands and contracts with weather conditions, so monitor your siding for signs of cracks.
Veneer Siding
Veneer siding offers the best of both worlds since your home will look like a stunning Victorian mansion with an affordable price tag. The most common options for veneer siding are brick and stone, though it’s best to explore all options to boost your home value.
It’s an affordable siding option for your home exterior. You’ll spend more when installing veneer siding than you would with vinyl, but you’ll enjoy the classy appearance it gives your home. It costs less than traditional stone and brick exteriors.
Veneer siding is also excellent if you want an option that doesn’t require extensive maintenance. You won’t need to stain or paint your veneer siding.
The primary drawback to weighing when considering veneer siding is moisture. Veneer siding is prone to issues with water and moisture that causes the veneer to crack. Severe weather and earthquakes will also cause cracks.
Upgrade Your Home Exterior Today
Investing in new siding types is the best way to spruce up your home exterior and add to your home’s curb appeal. Vinyl siding is a popular option because of its affordability and customization. Wood siding offers a classic appearance but requires intensive maintenance, while stucco boosts curb appeal but is vulnerable to cracking.
Your home exterior is one of the first things passersby see. Read more of our Home and Real Estate content to create a solid first impression with your curb appeal today!
