Have You Considered These Siding Styles?

14 October 2016
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Most homeowners choose vinyl siding for their homes. In fact, This Old House reports that 32 percent of new homes are being constructed with vinyl siding. The benefits of vinyl are that it is usually cheaper than other siding materials and comes in a number of colors. However, vinyl is not the only choice you have when it comes to siding for your home. Depending on the style and location of your home, you may find that another type of siding is a better fit. Before you choose siding for your house, consider these options. 

Aluminum Siding

Aluminum siding is a good choice for durability, and you can find large variations in quality and price. Aluminum is also a great insulator, and it can help you save money on energy costs. It's also recyclable, making it a great environmentally friendly option. 

Aluminum, however, does have some drawbacks. It can make unnerving noises during high winds and other inclement weather, and it does dent easily. The color also fades over time, which might be a problem when it comes to color matching for future repairs or changes on the home. 

Certain types of homes may benefit greatly from aluminum siding. 

  • Try aluminum if you live in a coastal area where your home has to withstand moisture and salt in the air. 
  • Consider aluminum if live in a place where temperatures are cold. Aluminum will not crack like other siding materials can. 
  • Aluminum may be the right choice if you are particularly concerned about insects or fire. 

Wooden Siding

Real wood siding creates a beautiful, timeless look that many homeowners love. Wooden siding is typically made of redwood or cedar and is available in several different styles. These include shingles, shakes, and clapboard. 

A major downside to wooden siding is that it can easily decay if it is not properly maintained. Wooden siding must be kept painted or varnished and in good repair, or else it can warp. Insects may also be a problem with wooden siding that is not kept in good condition. 

Brick Siding

Brick siding can be gorgeous, and many homeowners love the look of brick. Homeowners with brick siding enjoy a low-maintenance option that doesn't need to be painted, and brick will not warp in moist conditions. Its strength makes it resistant to fire and high winds. 

One problem homeowners may have with brick siding is that there are few color choices available. Also, while brick won't wear out, the mortar between the bricks can. The mortar will have to be maintained over time. 

Stucco Siding

Stucco is a fun siding option that is often seen on southwestern-style homes. It is easily maintained and provides excellent insulation from heat and cold. It comes in all kinds of colors, makes a great canvas for a mural, and can last for a long time. 

The downsides to stucco, however, include that it can be prone to cracking in wet weather. This makes it more suitable if you live in a dry area. Stucco may also crack when your home settles into the ground. 

Stone Siding

You have two options when it comes to stone siding. 

Real Stone

Real stone siding can be stunning on the outside of your home. It's a great option if you want to impress your visitors. Stone also lasts forever and is resistant to damage from weather. However, stone siding is very expensive and can take a long time to install. 

Stone Veneer

Stone veneer is lightweight and can be installed much more easily than real stone. Many types of stone veneer look just like the real thing. On the downside, the veneer is not anywhere near as durable as real stone and can be damaged in bad weather.

You have many different options when it comes to siding for your home. You'll want to carefully consider the look you want, how much money you intend to spend, and how much energy you are willing to spend on maintaining your siding. When you take all of these factors into consideration, you will be able to choose the perfect material for your home. 

Talk to a company such as Blue Springs Siding and Windows for more personalized ideas about what type of siding might be right for you.