The siding on your house protects the structure of your home from sun, wind, rain, and pests. It also adds to the curb appeal of your home. If you’re building a new house or shopping around to replace the siding on your current property, there are a variety of options for home siding materials.
Popular Home Siding Options
There are many options when it comes to siding. If you’re in the market for new siding for your home, make your decision based on budget, maintenance, and style. Here are a few of the most popular materials.
Vinyl Siding
One of the most common home siding materials is vinyl due to its low cost and easy maintenance. It is also available in a wide variety of colors. Vinyl siding is very durable and will last for decades. It doesn’t attract insects and can withstand the elements. Some homeowners dislike vinyl siding because it does look like plastic.
The only maintenance necessary with vinyl is periodically cleaning the siding since mildew and dirt will build up over time. Part of the appeal of vinyl is that homeowners can purchase and install it themselves, potentially saving quite a bit of money. Professional installation can cost as little as $3.50 per square foot.
Wood Options for Home Siding
Wood siding has a natural, classic look. It is relatively inexpensive and can last a long time when properly maintained. Redwood, pine, spruce, and cedar are all popular types of wood siding. However, the kind of wood you choose should be appropriate for your local climate.
The drawback when it comes to wood is maintenance. Wood siding needs to be painted or stained periodically to protect it from the elements. Wood is also appealing to both rodents and insects. So, homeowners will need to be vigilant to keep out unwanted pests.
Ultimately, it costs somewhere between $5 and $10 per square foot to have wood siding installed. Painting or staining is a separate expense.
Fiber Cement
Fiber cement siding is growing in popularity. This is a low-maintenance material that will not attract termites and other insects. It is also fire-resistant, further adding to its appeal.
The potential issue with fiber cement is that it’s heavy. Not all homes are strong enough to hold the extra weight. It is a little pricier than other options as well, costing between $6 and $12 per square foot installed. On the plus side, fiber cement siding can last up to 50 years.
Aluminum
Aluminum is a rust-resistant material that is durable, easy to maintain, and has superior insulating properties. It may need to be painted every five to ten years. Homeowners will also want to be careful that they do not dent the siding.
The price of aluminum siding varies depending on the quality and location of the home. It can cost anywhere from $2 per square foot to $7. When properly cared for, aluminum can last more than 50 years.
Brick Siding Options
Brick is a classic siding choice. It has great curb appeal and can last the life of a home when installed properly. Today, however, it is unusual for a home to have actual brick siding. Instead, most have a brick veneer installed on top of the home’s wood frame. To keep moisture out, a barrier should be installed before adding the veneer.
Brick veneer installation is labor-intensive. This is reflected in the cost, which ranges from $6 up to $15 per square foot.
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