The exterior of your home plays a big role in protecting your property from the onslaught of nature. It should continue looking great for several years no matter what Mother Nature throws at it. If you’re considering new siding for your home, there are several options on the market to choose from.
Vinyl Siding
Vinyl siding is known to be tough, affordable, long-lasting, and easy to install. These days, you can find vinyl siding in a wide range of colors, including designs which mimic wood-grain lap siding, stone siding, or traditional wood siding. Since the color is baked into the material, you won’t have to worry about dings and scratches showing up. All you need to maintain your vinyl siding is to periodically clean it with a brush and a hose.
Vinyl siding can be installed on new walls or over most types of existing siding. You can even add insulation to your home since insulated vinyl siding comes with a backing of solid foam insulation which fills the gaps behind the siding’s step profile.
On the downside, vinyl siding does not breathe and may allow moisture to accumulate below the surface, triggering mold growth and other water damage to your home. It is also relatively less durable, lasting about 20-30 years. In sunny climates, vinyl can begin showing signs of aging at 10-15 years.
Fiber Cement Siding
Fiber cement is a durable and versatile composite siding material made from cement and cellulose fibers. These components are compressed and formed into various siding products, including panels, clapboards, boards, battens, and exterior trim. Solid and dimensionally stable, fiber cement siding takes in paint exceptionally well, meaning a longer life for any paint job.
Perfect for areas prone to storms and flooding, fiber cement siding is extremely moisture-resistant. It’s also resistant to high winds which can easily blow away vinyl siding. Additionally, fiber cement siding is fire resistant, pest resistant, and stands up well against flying debris and hail.
The only notable downside to fiber cement siding is that the installation process is complex and requires highly skilled siding installers. In terms of costs, fiber cement siding has a relatively high upfront cost. However, the low maintenance requirements will offset this cost in the long-term.
Replacing your home’s siding allows you to increase its curb appeal and value. When choosing the best siding material, consider your home’s design, your patience for maintenance needs, and your budget. At Titan Siding and Roofing, we have years of experience installing high-quality siding in the Greater Cincinnati area. Our experienced siding specialist can help you weigh your options and choose the right siding which suits your home. Contact us today for a quote!
