What Siding Are You On?

Siding is important, both aesthetically and practically. The aesthetic part is obvious, as it is the first thing you notice when you pass it by the street. A good siding will equal greater value for your home and the envy of your neighbors. More importantly though, siding serves as the first line of defense when it comes to keeping your home away from inclement weather like rain, hail, and harsh winds. It is what prevents the interior of your home from moisture and rot, which if left unchecked can cause major structural issues.

Siding is made from many different kinds of materials, but the one that will best suit you will likely depend on your climate, budget, and other factors. To give you a hand, we’ve put together a little compilation of all the major kinds of siding that are on the market.

Cedar Shingle Siding

An American classic, this is a staple in lakeside houses, beachfront properties, woodland properties, or anything that is in a more natural setting. It is usually stained in numerous natural looking colors, such as brown, gray, or other earthen colors. They offer the benefits of looking more like real wood, but with less of the hassle that it takes to upkeep it.

Wood Clapboard Siding

Old but gold, this is the standard siding that has been used in constructing homes in America for centuries. Though upkeep of it can be difficult, in the long run it can last for several decades longer than it’s synthetic imitators. Just make sure to keep it consistently stained and maintained.

Seamless Steel

Strong and without any seams, this material will hold its own against rain and moisture well. It is also, unlike some other metals, resistant to expanding and shrinking with temperature changes, and as a result won’t warp over time. However, it is vulnerable to rust if not maintained, so it is important to make sure that its stainless steel coating is good condition.

Vinyl Siding

Made from PVC plastic, vinyl siding is resistant to rotting and flaking, and is also less expensive to purchase and install. However, this is more suitable as a short term solution, as it doesn’t tend to fair well in the long run. It can crack, split, and begin to look dull after a few years. Beyond that, since it is plastic it hazardous to the environment, and will emit toxic fumes in the event of a fire.

Fiber Cement

Our personal favorite, fiber cement is one of the most durable materials materials in siding. It is also the most versatile appearance wise, being able to look like wood, stucco, or masonry. Long lasting, Resistant to moisture, fire, and termites, as well as being low maintenance, it is a popular choice for many homeowners right now.

We over at Above & Beyond recommend fiber cement for most homes, and of course only the best fiber cement at that. Which is why we are proud to offer James Hardie Siding as our key siding supplier. With a long history as being one of the best siding suppliers out there, we couldn’t think of a better brand to partner with when it comes to shielding people’s homes.

Our Thoughts

Overall, the choice when it comes to siding is a mix of price, needs, and personal preference. It is important to choose wisely, as it is a significant long term investment. To seek advice from a professional, contact us or submit an inquiry.