Types of Siding
Siding enhances a home’s curb appeal, increases resale value and protects against harsh weather. It also helps prevent pest infestations.
Siding is available in a variety of colors, sizes, textures and materials. Many types of siding mimic traditional wood, stucco or brick appearances. Many wood shingles and shakes may be treated with semitransparent stains or left to naturally weather.
Fiber cement
Fiber cement is a long-lasting and versatile siding material. It can be stained or painted and is resistant to rotting, fire and insects. It also resists fading and can withstand harsh weather conditions like snow and hail. This makes it a great choice for homeowners who want to update their home without spending a lot of money on a full renovation.
Fiber-cement cladding is also popular in commercial buildings and multi-family dwellings. It can be installed with contrasting trim to highlight different architectural features. Contrasting trim also helps to bring out the colors in window casings and other trim, giving the building a cohesive look. The panels are available in many different sizes, and they can be painted to match or accent the color of a building's brick and metal trim.
In addition to its durability, fiber-cement siding is easy to maintain. It can be cleaned by spraying with a garden hose or using a soft brush or wash rag. It also does not need painting as often as other types of siding, but it might need to be repainted within five to 15 years. It also resists rot, insects, and fungus, and it does not attract termites.
Aside from its durability, fiber-cement siding also has a modern aesthetic. The smooth, shiny surface can be stained or painted, allowing for a wide range of looks. Some homeowners choose to use a premium stain grade to emphasize the natural grain of the wood, while others prefer to use a flat paint or opaque stain to keep their home looking new for as long as possible.
While some may see this type of siding as more contemporary, it can also be used for traditional homes. A large section of this home has been sided with horizontal lap siding to complement the traditional design of the house. The contrasting joints between the larger panels help to add interest to the wall and tie in the colors of other elements on the home, such as the fieldstone walls and window casings. Fiber-cement siding can also be used on soffits and roof eaves to provide a seamless appearance.
Plywood
Plywood is a wood-based product used in many applications where solid wood wouldn’t work. It’s made from multiple layers of veneer that are bonded together with resin to form the composite material. The grain of each layer alternates from one face to the other, which reduces the tendency for the wood to split when nailed and provides improved strength. It’s a great choice for sheathing a building’s surfaces before they are covered with flooring, siding, masonry and roofing materials. It’s also ideal for shear walls and webbed beams. Plywood is available in different grades depending on the intended use. For example, structural plywood is rated C/D which means that the face has knots and defects filled in while the reverse side may have some that are not filled. It’s not an appearance grade and isn’t sanded smooth. Other grades include WG (with all knots and cracks plugged) and WBP (weather and boil proof glue).
Brick is another classic siding material that’s sturdy against fire, insects and constant weather changes. It’s available in several different styles and colors and can be a very cost-effective option. However, it can become brittle and crack with age. Stucco is a cement-based product that’s relatively inexpensive. It can come in a variety of color and texture options and is durable, but it’s not suitable for areas with excess moisture.
Fiber cement is a long-lasting, low maintenance product that’s resistant to rot, mold and termites. It’s also a fire-resistant and insulated. It’s a bit more expensive than wood siding but is an excellent investment for your home.
Stone is a natural, sustainable material that adds elegance to your home’s exterior. It’s a great choice for retaining walls and foundations, as well as for facades. It’s also a good choice for accent pieces, like window sills, doors and railings. Stone is a very expensive siding material but it’s also incredibly durable. It will last a lifetime if properly cared for.
Cedar
Cedar is one of the most durable siding materials available. It is resistant to rot, insect infestation and mold growth. However, it does need regular maintenance to keep it looking good. It needs to be power-washed every two to four years, depending on your climate. It also needs to be re-stained or painted on a schedule determined by your climate. For example, a dusty climate will require frequent washing to remove dirt and spider webs. A wet climate will require treatment for mildew growth. A non-phosphate detergent is usually the best choice.
Cedar can be stained to bring out the natural grain of the wood or painted in a wide range of colors. It is easy to work with and allows for a lot of design creativity. However, it can be expensive and does require meticulous installation and regular maintenance.
When used in a commercial project, cedar creates a warm and welcoming look for building occupants. For example, Haywire, a New York-based marketing agency, uses reclaimed cedar siding on their building to showcase their brand and encourage interaction.
Although it is more costly than aluminum and vinyl, cedar is still the most environmentally friendly siding material available. It produces the least amount of greenhouse gas, air pollution and water waste than any other siding. It is more sustainable than pine, too, since it grows faster and is harvested in a responsible way.
Unlike pine, which will warp and swell when exposed to moisture, cedar is more resilient. However, it is important to let the cedar acclimate before installation. It is also important to use hot-dipped galvanized or aluminum nails instead of iron, which can stain the wood. If stains do occur, they can be removed with commercial cleaners.
Fiber cement is a composite material made of Portland cement, sand and wood fibers. It can be molded to imitate the appearance of traditional wood shakes or planks and is often pre-colored, although it can also be painted after installation. It is stronger and more resistant to rot, insects and mold than real wood. It is a good alternative to pine and can be a more cost-effective option than vinyl, although it still requires regular maintenance.
Stone
Known for its rugged, natural appearance, stone siding is one of the longest-lasting types of siding available. It’s available in real and faux varieties (often referred to as cultured or manufactured stone). While it provides the classic look of a historic house, stone siding requires a mason’s expertise to install and is often more expensive than other siding options. Imitation or faux stone is a lightweight foam containing fire retardants and UV protectants shaped to mimic stone or brick. It’s easier to apply than real stone and may not last as long though it’s still a solid choice.
Brick is another popular option for home siding. This material originated in the Baltic region and arrived in the US with Dutch and British immigrants who were skilled masons. Traditionally, brick provided the structural integrity of a building. Today, it is most often used as a decorative and protective veneer built on top of a wood-frame structure. Brick is highly durable, and it provides a warm and inviting look to a house. However, bricks can be difficult to work with and need a lot of maintenance. It’s essential that brick masons properly mortar the brick to avoid water buildup and deterioration.
Metal siding can add a modern or contemporary look to your house. It is fire-proof and pest-resistant, keeping your home cool in summer and warm during winter. This type of siding also helps to reduce your energy bills by creating a tighter building envelope that prevents moisture penetration and wind-blown debris. However, it’s prone to rust and must be regularly cleaned with water or a hose.
Choosing the best type of siding for your house will depend on your budget, style preferences, and how much maintenance you want to perform. Vinyl is an inexpensive and versatile choice, but it will deteriorate over time. Fiber cement, on the other hand, is a more durable choice and can last your lifetime with minimal upkeep. It’s important to find a siding contractor that is licensed and reputable. Siding Companies In Amarillo has a team of expert contractors that will help you select the perfect siding for your home.
Siding enhances a home’s curb appeal, increases resale value and protects against harsh weather. It also helps prevent pest infestations. Siding is available in a variety of colors, sizes, textures and materials. Many types of siding mimic traditional wood, stucco or brick appearances. Many wood shingles and shakes may be treated with semitransparent stains or…