Are you wondering what types of house siding there are and how to choose the best one for your home? You’re in the right place! In this blog post, we’ll be exploring all the different types of house siding on the market, and the pros and cons of each.
We’ll also go in-depth about all the factors you should consider when choosing the best siding for your home, such as cost, durability, and aesthetic appeal. By the end of this article, you’ll have a better understanding of which siding is right for you and your home.
Why The Siding On Your Home Is Important
The siding of your home plays a crucial role in protecting you and your family from the elements. Not only does it keep moisture out of your home, but it also provides insulation against extreme temperatures. Additionally, you’ll find your house siding helps prevent pests and other animals from entering your home.
When choosing the type of siding that’s best for your home, it’s important to consider the material you select and the environment where you live. For example, vinyl siding is the most popular choice due to its low cost and ease of installation, but it may not be the best option for areas with extreme temperatures or coastal regions. Wood siding can offer a more natural look, but it may require more maintenance and is susceptible to rot and other damage. It is important to research each type of siding to determine which one is right for you.
That being said, let’s now discuss the different materials of siding available on the market and the pros and cons of each.
The Types of House Siding
From traditional wood planks to modern metal panels, each material has its unique features and benefits. Let’s take a closer look at the seven most popular siding materials that are versatile, durable, sturdy and appealing.
#1 Vinyl Siding
Vinyl siding is a synthetic material made from a combination of PVC, calcium carbonate, and other additives that form a durable, weatherproof material. Vinyl siding comes in a variety of styles, textures, and colors, making it one of the most popular materials used for home siding today.
The most common style of vinyl siding is horizontal lap siding, which consists of panels of vinyl material attached to the outside of your home. Lap siding creates a sleek, modern look on your home’s exterior and can be installed easily. You’ll also find vertical vinyl siding, which is made up of individual panels that are attached vertically to your home’s exterior.
Vinyl siding is a popular choice for homeowners who are looking for an affordable, low-maintenance option for their home’s siding. It requires very little maintenance since it does not need to be painted or treated like wood siding. Additionally, it’s resistant to harsh weather conditions, which means it can stand up to rain, snow, and wind without becoming damaged.
On the other hand, some people believe that vinyl siding looks cheap and unnatural when compared to other types of siding. Its color also fades over time due to sun exposure or harsh weather conditions. Furthermore, vinyl siding does not provide as much insulation as other types of siding, such as wood or fiber cement siding.
Also Read: Top 7 Vinyl Siding Brands for Every Budget and Style Preference
#2 Engineered Wood Siding
Engineered wood siding is a popular type of siding choice among homeowners who are looking for an aesthetically pleasing, long-lasting option. This type of house siding is made up of several different layers of material, including hardwood, resin, and other composite materials. The combination of these materials gives engineered wood siding a unique look and feel that stands out from traditional vinyl or wood siding.
Engineered wood offers superior strength and durability compared to traditional wood siding. Additionally, this type of siding is resistant to moisture, insects, and other potential damage that can occur with natural wood. It also does not require as much maintenance, as it does not require repainting.
One of the drawbacks of engineered wood siding is that it tends to be more expensive than other types of siding, such as vinyl. Additionally, it can be difficult to repair or replace due to its complex structure.
#3 Natural Wood Siding
Natural wood siding uses real wood to provide an aesthetically pleasing and durable exterior for your house. Cedar, pine, redwood, cypress, and spruce are some of the most commonly used wood for this type of siding, each offering its own unique look and characteristics.
If you choose natural wood for your siding, you should be aware of the pros and cons associated with it. On one hand, natural wood siding provides a classic and rustic look that will never go out of style. It is also extremely durable and can withstand harsh weather conditions, such as rain and strong winds.
However, natural wood siding does require a lot of maintenance. It should be regularly stained and sealed to protect it from warping and rotting due to moisture exposure. It’s also more expensive than other types of house siding, and the installation process can be more time-consuming as well.
#4 Metal Siding
Metal siding is a popular option for homeowners due to its durability, versatility, and modern aesthetic. Metal siding is typically made of aluminum or steel and comes in a variety of styles, including horizontal and vertical panels, shingles, and corrugated metal sheets. The sleek, modern look of metal siding makes it an excellent choice for contemporary homes or for homeowners looking to add a modern touch to their traditional homes.
Metal is a great low-maintenance siding, and it can withstand harsh weather conditions such as wind, rain, and hail. However, metal siding can be prone to denting and scratching, which may require repairs over time, and reduce the curb appeal of your home. Metal siding can also be expensive, particularly for premium materials like copper or zinc. Despite these drawbacks, metal siding remains a popular choice due to its durability and aesthetic appeal.
#5 Stone Veneer Siding
Stone veneer is a type of building material that is used to give the appearance of natural stone on the exterior of a building. It is made from a thin layer of natural or manufactured stone that is applied to a substrate, such as a concrete wall. The veneer is typically less than an inch thick and is secured to the substrate with a bonding agent. Stone veneer siding is a popular choice for homeowners and builders because it offers the aesthetic appeal of natural stone at a lower cost and lighter weight than a full stone exterior.
One of the biggest advantages of stone veneer siding is its durability, as it can withstand harsh weather conditions and extreme temperatures. Additionally, stone veneer siding is low maintenance and doesn’t require any protective coatings, making it a convenient choice for homeowners.
However, some cons of stone veneer siding include the potential for water damage, as improper installation or sealing can cause water to seep behind the stones. Additionally, stone veneer siding can be heavy, which may require additional structural support during installation, and increase the cost of installation.
#6 Brick Siding
Brick siding, also known as brick veneer, is a type of building material used to give the appearance of traditional brick construction on the exterior of a building. It is made from a thin layer of brick that is applied to a substrate the same way stone veneer is.
Brick siding not only provides an outstanding aesthetic appeal, but it’s also extremely durable and able to withstand extreme temperatures and weather conditions.
Like with any siding, brick has its drawbacks as well. The mortar holding the siding together may crack or crumble over time, and extra support may be needed to install this siding, leading to higher installation costs.
#7 Fiber Cement Siding
Fiber cement siding is one of the most popular types of house siding on the market today. It is a strong and durable building material that is made from a mix of Portland cement, cellulose wood fibers, and other ingredients. This siding has many advantages compared to other materials like vinyl or wood siding. It is extremely resistant to fire, termites, and rot, and it can last for up to 50 years when properly maintained. Additionally, it is very low maintenance, requiring only an occasional wash with a hose and brush.
However, fiber cement siding is more expensive than other types of siding. It is also heavier and may require additional support when being installed and can also be difficult to repair when damaged.
What To Consider Before Purchasing Siding
If you think you’ve settled on a siding material for your home, consider the following factors prior to making your purchase:
Climate and Weather Conditions
The climate and weather conditions in your area affect the performance and durability of your siding. For instance, if you live in a region with extreme temperature fluctuations, you should consider a siding material that can withstand those changes without cracking, warping, or fading.
Home Style and Aesthetics
The style and architecture of your home can play a significant role in the type of siding you choose. For example, if you have a traditional-style home, you may want to consider a siding material like wood or brick that can provide a classic, timeless look.
Maintenance Requirements
Since certain types of siding require more maintenance than others, you’ll want to choose one that fits the level of maintenance you’re willing to put in. For example, wood siding requires regular painting or staining to prevent decay and insect damage, but if you’re not willing to keep up with it, options like vinyl siding may be a better choice.
Durability and Longevity
The desired level of durability and lifespan you want out of your siding should also be considered. For example, brick and stone siding is incredibly durable and can last for decades with proper maintenance. Vinyl siding, while not as durable as some other materials, is still an excellent choice for homeowners looking for a relatively durable material
Cost and Budget
The cost of house siding can vary greatly depending on the material you choose. Brick and stone siding tend to be the most expensive, while vinyl and metal siding are more budget-friendly. Keep in mind that while some materials may have a higher upfront cost, they may require less maintenance and last longer, ultimately saving you money in the long run.
Get The Best Siding Contractors In Atlanta, Georgia
Now that you know the importance of siding to your home, and the types available on the market, we hope you feel more informed regarding the decision you’ll make for your home. There are also variations of the types of house siding we’ve listed here, so we recommend doing your own research to find exactly what you need.
If you’re looking for a reliable siding contractor in Atlanta, GA, look no further than our experienced team at RST Roofing and Renovations, LLC. Our team has years of expertise in repairing and installing all types of siding materials and styles. You can rely on our skilled professionals, who can help protect your home for many years to come! Give us a call today at (404)-548-8901 to speak with one of our experts and get started with a consultation.
