The 7 Most Popular Types of Siding
If you’re a fan of HGTV, you know home renovations are all about curb appeal. Sure, when you think of “curb appeal,” you might be thinking of additional landscaping, though you should also think about changing your siding, and there are many types of siding available to you.
There are several siding options on the market nowadays. When determining which type of siding is best for your home, it’s essential to know the seven main types of siding. The aesthetic of your home and the cost of materials will ultimately determine which style of siding you choose.
Note: if you decide you’re ready to pull the trigger, we are happy to provide you with a free siding estimate.
There are several siding materials you should consider when choosing your siding.
1. Wood
A traditional wood siding is common and versatile. You can install wood siding in various methods, such as a board and batten design or shingles. You can leave wood siding natural and let the outside elements determine its color. Or you make staining and painting your wood siding a DIY project for the weekend. Wood siding is an excellent option depending on the design of your home, but it requires more maintenance and upkeep compared to other types of siding.
2. Vinyl
Vinyl siding is an extremely popular type of siding. Vinyl siding is a relatively cheap siding option, and you can purchase it in various colors. Vinyl siding is a PVC resin molded into panels. Although vinyl is popular, it is prone to cracking and hail damage.
3. Fiber Cement
Another option to consider when choosing a siding is fiber cement. Fiber cement siding is a material made of cement, sand, water, and fibers. Because it is fabricated panels, fiber cement siding can fit many different styles and aesthetics. You can purchase fiber cement siding pre-finished or primed to finish yourself upon installation. Fiber cement siding can be somewhat expensive. However, it is very durable and will last many years.
4. Stucco
Unlike wood, vinyl, or fiber cement siding, stucco is a type of siding that is not installed panel by panel. Instead, stucco is traditionally a sand and cement plaster. The stucco is applied to your house in layers after mixing the sand and cement with water and a few other chemicals. Each layer of stucco may consist of slightly different chemicals to make the siding more durable. Because of its durability, stucco will last for many years.
5. Engineered Wood Siding
Engineered wood siding is very similar to “regular” wood siding. However, there are key differences. Unlike plain wood siding, usually cedar or pine, engineered wood siding is made by bonding together wood fibers, wood chips, sawdust, and wood scraps with an adhesive. This material looks like wood, but it is more durable and resistant to outside elements and termites. You can install engineered wood siding by panels. This kind of siding lasts many years.
6. Brick
Brick is one of the most popular types of siding on the market. Unlike other types of siding, brick is laid block by block and held together with mortar. Brick is very durable and is unlikely to cause problems for many years.
7. Synthetic Stone
Many homeowners like the look of stone on the exterior of their houses. Stone, however, is challenging to maintain and install as a siding. Fortunately, synthetic stone is now an option. Synthetic stone is a manufactured veneer similar to bricks. You can install synthetic stone in individual pieces or by panels. Synthetic stones are a durable and cost-effective option.
The outside appearance of your home gives your visitors their first impression of your humble abode. First impressions are why you need to choose the right type of siding for your house. Choosing the right kind of siding depends upon several factors, including cost and durability. Fortunately, there are many options on the market to make your choice of siding the best choice for your home.