How To Choose The Right Siding For Your Home
One of the most important decisions you’ll make when renovating your home is selecting the right type of siding. Not only does it play a major role in the overall look and feel of your home, but it can also have a significant impact on your energy bill and insurance premiums. In this blog post, we will guide you through the different types of siding available on the market and help you choose the right one for your needs. We’ll also discuss some key factors to consider when making your decision, so you can get the best possible outcome for your home.
What to look for in a new home
There are a few things you should keep in mind when narrowing down your search for the right siding for your home.
First, think about what style of siding you want. There are several different types to choose from, including Colonial, Craftsman, Tudor, and Spanish.
Second, consider the material type. You have a few options here: wood, vinyl, aluminum, or composite.
Finally, be sure to factor in the cost of the siding and its installation. You’ll need to budget for materials and labor costs as well as any permits or licenses that may be required.
Types of siding
There are a few different types of siding that homeowners can choose from, depending on their needs and wants.
Vinyl Siding: Vinyl is the most popular type of siding because it is affordable, easy to maintain, and has a long lifespan. It’s also resistant to weathering and decay, which means it can last for many years. However, vinyl may not be the best option for homes that see a lot of rain or snow.
Wood Siding: Wood is a traditional material used for exterior wall covering due to its natural appeal and durability. It’s also relatively affordable, but may require more maintenance than other types of siding. Wood may also suffer from moisture damage if it’s not properly maintained.
Cedar Siding: Cedar is a natural wood product that is often considered to be eco-friendly because it requires little care and has a long lifespan. Cedar may be more expensive than other types of siding, but it may be worth the investment if you want your home to stand the test of time.
PVC Siding: PVC is a popular type of siding because it’s affordable, easy to install, and has a long lifespan. However, PVC may not be the best option for homes that see a lot of weathering or rain.
Metal Siding: Metal is a sturdy exterior wall covering that can be expensive, but it may be worth the investment if you want your home to last for many years. Metal may be difficult to maintain, but it’s usually resistant to weathering and decay.
Fiberglass Siding: Fiberglass is a popular type of siding because it’s affordable, easy to install, and has a long lifespan. However, fiberglass may not be the best option for homes that see a lot of weathering or rain.
Composite Siding: Composite siding is a blend of several different materials, including wood, vinyl, and fiberglass. It’s a popular choice because it’s affordable, easy to install, and has a long lifespan. However, composite siding may not be the best option for homes that see a lot of weathering or rain.
How to measure for your home
There are a few things to consider when measuring for your home’s siding. Firstly, the type of siding your home has will affect the measurements you need to take.
If your home has an existing roofline or exterior walls, you’ll need to subtract the width of those elements from the total width of the wall or roof line you want to cover. For example, if your wall is 8 feet wide and you want to cover it with vinyl siding, you would subtract 8 feet from 12 feet (2 feet) and divide that result by 4 (12/4 = 3).
If your home doesn’t have an existing roofline or exterior walls, then simply measure from one corner of the house to another and multiply that number by 1.5 (this will give you the length of the side). For example, if your house measures 20 feet wide on each side and you want a 50-foot-long side, your measurement would be 4050/20 = 10500.
Do I need a permit to install siding?
Depending on the type of siding you’re installing, you may or may not need a permit. If you’re installing vinyl siding, you likely won’t need a permit, but if you’re installing wood or cedar siding, you will likely need a permit.
Installation tips
When it comes to siding, there are a few things you need to keep in mind. Here are some installation tips to help you choose the right product for your home.
First, think about the climate where you live. If you live in an area that experiences a lot of heat or cold weather, choose a siding material that can handle those extremes. For example, if you live in an area that sees a lot of hot summers and cold winters, go with a vinyl or aluminum window and door material.
Second, think about your budget. Different types of siding materials come with different price tags, so it’s important to decide what’s most important to you and stick to that budget. Some materials, like wood or brick veneer, are more expensive upfront but tend to last longer and look better over time. Other materials, like vinyl or aluminum window and door trim, are cheaper up front but may not last as long or look as good. It’s important to do your research before making a decision.
Finally, think about your aesthetic preferences. Do you want something traditional or contemporary? Traditional siding materials might include wood shingles or clapboard while contemporary materials might include PVC (polyvinyl chloride) sheeting or metal paneling. Again, it’s important to do your research so that you know what looks best on your property.
What to do if you have a problem with your siding
If you have any problems with your siding, there are a few things you can do to address the issue. You can try to contact the company that installed it, or you can take steps yourself to fix the problem. First, check to see if there is anything blocking the ventilation ports on your home. If so, remove the obstruction and try to open the vents again. If that doesn’t work, you may need to call a professional to take a look at your home and assess the situation.
Conclusion
There are a lot of factors to consider when choosing the right siding for your home, and it can be difficult to know where to start. If you’re looking to update your exterior look, or simply want something that will last longer than the average vinyl or wood siding, our tips should help you make the right choice. Whether you’re interested in traditional clapboard or an elaborate wood paneling style, we have information on all of the most popular types of siding available today. So if you’re ready to add some character and life to your home’s exterior, head over to our selection and choose the perfect option for you!