Buying house siding
Written by Mimi Bullock
You'll be happy to know that you have many choices when it comes to house siding solutions. Beautiful finishes and a variety of styles can be found in today's home siding marketplace. Even if cosmetics aren't important to you, saving money probably is. Besides giving your home a much needed touch-up, you'll save money on energy costs, not to mention raising the value of your home. In today's market, that's always a plus.
House siding solutions: what to consider
House siding can revolutionize the appearance of your home. There's no other home improvement that can so dramatically induce the "wow" factor. But before you jump into this home improvement, there are some smart house siding solutions that you should consider. First, will your siding choice complement your home's design? Your country rustic style home won't need stucco. If you are aiming for a more Mediterranean style home, you shouldn't be looking at cedar plank siding. Keep your selections working with your home's style.
Another factor to consider, and it may be your most crucial, is cost. If the sky isn't the limit, then your house siding choices aren't limitless either. Fortunately, with tons of varieties of siding come a variety of costs. The last factor is siding availability. Is the finish you're looking for available in your area? There may be extra costs if your choice of exteriors is not readily available.
House siding varieties
Smart house siding solutions come in a range of colors, styles and applications.
Vinyl. Vinyl exteriors are affordable and durable. Colored vinyl lasts longer than painted wood and is relatively simple to install. Even barn siding now comes in vinyl. Vinyl comes in a full range of flattering exterior colors.
Fiber cement. This is a mix of cement, sand, and cellulose to keep the cement from cracking. Fiber cement siding looks like wood, down to the grain. Fiber cement costs a little more than vinyl but less than wood.
Wood. Composite wood siding is also referred to as OSB, for oriented strand board. OSB is inexpensive and comes in large sheets or panels. Another wood option is cedar planking. It's a little pricey, but it's a beautiful look.
Brick or stone. It doesn't get any better than stone for weather resistance. Brick is also almost completely impervious to the elements. Both are gorgeous. However, the cost can be steep.
Other options. Stucco, clapboard, aluminum and steel are also available. The colors and grades are variables to consider.
Smart house siding solutions are everywhere — but sometimes it takes a professional to help you decide which choice is the best for your particular situation. Get matched to several quality installers by submitting a simple, free request for siding price quotes and get all the answers you need.
