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5 Things To Think About When Siding Your Home

4 August 2021

Ray Moreno

There are four main siding options for the home -- metal, vinyl, wood, and fiber cement. The following can help you choose between these materials. 

1. Maintenance Level

Different materials have varying maintenance requirements. Wood siding, including both plank and shake style, is typically the highest maintenance as it needs regular painting or staining to guard against rot and decay. Metal is much lower maintenance, although it may require repainting if it becomes scratched. Vinyl and fiber cement siding tends to be the lowest maintenance with only cleaning required. Vinyl may also require periodic panel repair if one becomes loose or damaged.

2. Pest Pressures

In some regions, pests like termites and carpenter ants can be a real problem. Anything wood will attract these pests, so it is better to avoid wood siding and go with one of the metal, vinyl, or fiber cement siding alternatives. In areas where termite issues are particularly bad, going with a pest-resistant option may even help lower home insurance costs. 

3. Fire Resistance

Fire can be a major concern, particularly in areas with high wildfire risks. Fire-resistant siding in these locales may be required by local building codes or at least recommended for home safety and insurance purposes. Metal and fiber cement provide the best fire resistance, with fiber cement being the best of the two options. Wood siding is naturally not resistant to flames, and vinyl tends to melt. 

4. Adaptability

Siding should be an investment that will last many years, which means you may need to adapt it to your changing aesthetic purposes and design ideas. Wood and fiber cement siding can both be easily updated with a coat of paint. Metal can also be painted with a little prep work, but dents and dings may make it looked aged even after painting. Vinyl isn't easily painted, so it is best to choose it in a neutral color that will age well.

5. Longevity

Siding longevity depends on more factors than the material, as weathering and maintenance can affect how long it lasts. Fiber cement tends to provide the longest lifespan for the least amount of maintenance, as it withstands weathering and requires nearly no maintenance. Metal is a close second, although it can be dented and damaged by storms and hail. Vinyl has a decently long life if care is taken to avoid damage, but weathering can eventually get the best of it. Wood siding's lifespan is highly dependent on weather exposure and being kept under a protective coat of paint.

Contact a company like Innovations Siding & Windows to learn about the options on the market for your home. 

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