Comparing the Most Common Types of Siding

Whether you want to enhance the performance, curb appeal or value of your home, new siding might be just what you are looking for. When it comes to home improvements, many homeowners often overlook the home’s humble siding. However, the siding of your home is very important. Not only does it provide your home with unique character and charm, but it also protects the exterior structure of your home from the elements. Siding comes in a variety of materials, so it can be difficult to know which is best for you, your home and your needs. In this article, we will be comparing the most common types of siding so when the time comes for you to replace your siding, you will be able to make an informed decision.

Energy Efficiency

When it comes to efficiency, stucco siding is the most efficient product on the siding market. Stucco works exceptionally well at keeping the cool air inside during summer, and keeping the warm air inside during winter. Metal and vinyl siding are also highly efficient, with vinyl siding offering extra insulation. Wood, on the other hand, is not as efficient as manufactured siding like stucco, metal and vinyl. In general, manufactured siding products greatly outperform natural siding when it comes to energy efficiency.

Cost

Generally speaking, vinyl is the most cost-effective siding material. This is because it comes in a range of styles, models and price-points. Metal and aluminum siding is the next cheapest, followed by wood and stucco. It is important to remember that prices can vary depending on the model, availability of product, installation costs, the market and season.

When considering the right siding for your home, it is also important to look at the long-term costs. The right siding can help you save money on your energy bills and recoup the additional expense you spent on the more ‘expensive’ option.

Durability

In terms of durability, metal siding and engineered wood are two of the most durable siding materials. However, vinyl is not far behind. As long as vinyl is not too battered and bruised, it can last for just as long as metal siding, which can be decades. A benefit of vinyl siding is that it will not dent or scratch, and does not need to be repainted. However, vinyl can crack, which is not hard to repair, just more of an annoyance. Metal, while easily dented, does not break.

Wood is a durable siding material if treated routinely in order to prevent water damage, dry rot and insect infestation. Over time, however, wood can dry out and start to split and bow. Engineered wood, on the other hand, tests well again insects, rock damages and the harsh elements. Generally speaking, engineered wood outlasts natural wood when it comes to maintenance and damages.

Stucco siding is probably the least durable siding material. It is often targeted by animals and insects, and can easily be damaged by things like flying sports balls and fallen tree-branches.

Maintenance

If you are after a siding material that requires very little maintenance, vinyl might be the one for you. Vinyl siding needs to be maintained less than other siding materials. In fact, once vinyl siding has been properly installed, it is virtually maintenance free. Metal siding likewise does not require much maintenance. However, it does easily dent, which may require you to carry out regular maintenance checks to look for any issues.

Stucco siding is generally quite brittle, meaning you may find yourself needing to patch a few holes every now and again, especially if you have children, pets or wildlife in and around your home. Holes in stucco siding must be attended to as soon as possible because once water seeps in behind stucco, it will completely damage your walls. Natural wood and engineered wood siding does not require much maintenance. It does not break, dent or scratch. However, to keep wood in an optimal condition, it will need to be treated every 5 years or so, depending on the climate you live in.

Stylistic Options

When it comes to stylistic options, vinyl and engineered wood siding will provide you with the most options, especially in terms of plank size, color and texture. Natural wood siding also comes in a variety of styles, coming in shingles or planks, logs or tongue-and-groove. It can almost be stained any color you desire. In terms of metal siding and its stylistic options, it can be painted, and so too can stucco siding. However, the color is about the only choice you get when it comes to the style of metal and stucco siding.