Pros and Cons of Different Siding Options

With so many siding options available, it’s hard to know which one is best for your home. Let your personal preferences, budget constraints, and aesthetics of your home be your guide when making your final decision. It also never hurts to get an expert opinion before settling on the siding of your choosing.

Siding is one of the more expensive items when it comes to building a home, and your exterior is also the first thing that meets the eye, so it’s important that it matches the appearance you’re dreaming of.

We’re laying out the pros and cons of different types of siding so you can confidently make decision for your siding needs.

Things to Consider When Researching Your Options

Appearance

When it comes to selecting the perfect siding for your home, there is no shortage of options. Take some time to explore all of the possibilities and see which one is most visually appealing. A few questions to take into consideration include:

• How do the materials interact with light?
• What colors are available?
• Will this style look fashionable even a few years down the line?

Durability

Durability is an essential factor when it comes to picking the perfect siding for your home. Don’t be fooled by looks alone! It’s important to also take into account a particular material’s pros and cons with regards to longevity.

Cost

When it comes to siding your home, cost is a primary factor in determining which option will be the best for you. Vinyl is typically the most affordable option at as low as $2 per square foot. It’s important to strike the balance between economical factors as well as quality. Don’t forget the aesthetics along with budget-friendly options as well. Considering higher quality materials could save you money in the long run due to lower maintenance requirements.

Installation

Last but not least, consider the installation process when it comes to choosing your siding. Different siding choices come with their own unique set of installation requirements and maintenance needs. As with any materials for your home, sidings have a range of options each presenting their own set of difficulties and advantages. You’ll want to do in depth research before determining which one is right for you!

Pros and Cons of Different Siding Options

Vinyl Siding

Vinyl siding is currently the most widely used material for exterior siding. It’s affordable and available in a variety of colors to match a wide array of styles. Let’s break down the advantages and disadvantages:

Pros:

• Low maintenance
• Affordable
• Easy installation
• Available in an array of colors

Cons:

• Can crack overtime with exposure to weather elements
• Not the most attractive option – seams due to planks rarely lining up
• Not environmentally friendly

Wood Siding

Wood is one of the oldest exterior siding options available. It can be easily personalized to your needs by painting or staining it exactly how you want it.

Pros:

• Classic look in a variety of styles
• Eco-friendly and can be recycled
• Easily transform (paint, cut, stain) for your desired look

Cons:

• Lacks durability
• Requires maintenance – needs to be painted and sealed regularly to prevent decay
• Expensive installation

Fiber Cement Siding

This durable material is designed to last at least 30 years and provide superior protection from even harsh weather conditions such as hail and harsh winds, making it ideal for homeowners in intense climates.

Pros:

• Minimal maintenance
• One of the most durable siding materials
• Fire resistant, termite proof, rot resistant

Cons:

• Requires special installation
• More expensive than engineered wood siding and vinyl
• More visible seams

Brick Siding

Brick has long been a popular choice in construction projects around the world. Its longevity within the industry is a testament to the material’s reliability and durability.

Pros:

• Classic look
• Durable material and low maintenance
• Weather and fire-resistant

Cons:

• Expensive installation
• Not easily movable, so difficult to repair or replace
• Color limitations

Stucco

Stucco is a low-maintenance material that promises fire and termite resistance, making it a great choice for home improvement projects. However, there are some possible drawbacks to consider as well.

Pros:

• Durability
• Available in a variety of colors, versatility with style choice
• Fire resistant and termite resistant

Cons:

• Requires professional installation
• Potential cracking in temperatures changes or humidity
• Provides very little insulation

Metal

Metal is no longer limited to simply covering rooftops – it’s also now being used as a stylish and durable siding material on the exteriors of homes. Increasingly popular, metal has become an attractive option for many homeowners in search of something different from traditional materials like brick or stucco.

Pros:

• Durable, low maintenance
• Malleable and versatile
• Eco-friendly

Cons:

• Time consuming to install
• Offers little insulation
• Not soundproof

Investing in new siding for your home is a great way to improve its aesthetic appeal, bolster safety features, and boost value. With various materials available on the market ranging from economical solutions to more expensive options that last longer, making a decision can be daunting. As you start shopping around, check in with a local expert to help guide you through which material will be best for local conditions as well as your budget.

FAQs:

What is the most popular siding color of 2023?

The most popular choice for homeowners updating the color of their home exterior in 2023 is off-white/cream.

What type of siding requires the least maintenance?

When it comes to the lowest amount of maintenance, fiber cement takes the cake. Its composition provides durability and strength that other options can’t offer. It doesn’t soak up water like some wood options. The color consistency of fiber cement is also built to last, meaning harsh sun exposure overtime won’t cause discoloration or chipping.

What is the most cost effective siding?

Vinyl siding is almost always the least expensive way to side your home. This material can be found for as cheap as $2 per square foot.