House Siding that Fits Your Home
by Amelia Gray
Guide to Home Improvement Columnist
The siding on your house makes an important first impression on visitors, and can even affect the way you look at your home.
Once you decide to replace your house siding, it's important to pick the right type for your home and budget. Siding prices and durability are important, and homeowners looking to upgrade should be aware of the four major types of house siding.Aluminum Siding
This old standard in house siding has its benefits. Aluminum siding withstands heat more efficiently than many materials, making it a smart choice for lower energy bills and fire safety. Paint on aluminum siding can be easily chipped, making upkeep more of a constant worry than with vinyl siding. Siding prices for aluminum are typically higher than vinyl siding, and aluminum siding can be more difficult to install. If properly maintained, aluminum siding will give your home a crisp, classic look.
Vinyl Siding
A popular choice for homebuyers and renovators alike, vinyl siding is often cheaper and less of a hassle to maintain than wood or aluminum siding. Vinyl siding shouldn't be painted, but higher-quality material will keep its color for many years. While a higher quality vinyl siding can mean higher siding prices, high-quality vinyl siding usually means thicker material, higher energy efficiency, and a more natural look for your home.
Fiber-Cement Siding
This relatively new addition is making waves in the house siding market. A durable mix of cellulose fibers, sand, and cement, fiber-cement siding is cheaper than wood and resistant to the rot and warp of wood and the cracks and dents of aluminum and vinyl siding. Fiber-cement siding is a new enough product that the long-term wear is unclear, but many companies selling the material back it with long warranties.
Wood Siding
On the high end of house siding possibilities, wood siding is the ultimate natural, classic finish. Builders typically choose cedar for its strength and durability. Siding prices and upkeep can get expensive, but if you're planning on selling your home soon after the remodeling project, the look of a well-maintained wood siding can have an immediate effect on potential homebuyers.
Siding also affects the way you feel about your home, and can drastically change the home's market value. Research siding prices, choose a type that works for your home and budget, and enjoy your home's clean, new look.
About the Author
Amelia Gray is a teacher and freelance writer in San Marcos, TX. Amelia earned a Bachelor's Degree in English Literature from Arizona State University.
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