Siding provides three important benefits to your home. Functionally, your siding protects your home from weather, pests, and other damage. Aesthetically, your siding makes your home look the way you want it to look both in terms of color and design. And finally, your siding is going to impact the property value of your home if you plan to resell it. Siding installation is a big decision to make for those reasons. If you are getting siding for your home, you want to make sure that it is the right call, because that siding is going to last for decades. You want to make sure it has the look you want, provides the protection you need, and most importantly, that you understand what will be needed to maintain it. A common misconception is that there is a one-size-fits-all answer to the question “what siding should I get”. In this article, we aim to address the different siding materials and the factors that impact your decision.
Vinyl vs Fiber Cement Siding
Two of the most popular base materials for siding are fiber cement and vinyl. Vinyl is often chosen because of its budget as well as its protection and aesthetic value. Companies like CertainTeed provide beautiful vinyl siding options that can last for years. Contrastly, fiber cement is touted as one of the most durable and long-lasting choices. Some people even consider fiber cement to be the obvious upgrade to vinyl siding because of its durability. But extra durability might not be the best choice for you. Here are some factors to consider when making the siding material choices.
How Long Do You Plan To Live In This Home?
Is this your forever home, are you planning to spend the next few decades here, or is this a starter home, do you plan on moving in a few years for work or another reason? Well, if you are planning a more short-term project for 5-10 years, you might not want to pay for the most durable option of siding, on the flipside, paying for something that the next homeowner won’t have to worry about for a few years could improve the value of your property.
What Is The Local Weather?
Some siding will tout itself as being virtually indestructible, and perfect against pests, hurricanes, and other forms of extreme weather. But it might not make sense to get all that extra protection if you don’t need it. For example, if you are by the water, you want a siding that is water resistant and can handle strong winds filled with sea-salty air. But if you are inland and you are rarely hit by any storms, it might not be worth it. In the same way, if you are in a suburban area or city where you are protected by surrounding buildings, you might be better suited for a different siding material.
What Is Your Budget?
This is always the most important question. At the heart of any home renovation project, you need to consider what is most cost-effective for you. Spending more today to prevent spending money in the future on repairs, maintenance, or replacement is a great call, but there are many mid-tier siding options that provide great stability and protection without doubling or tripling your budget.
Talk To Siding Experts
If you live in Greater Boston, the team at Three Sons Windows & Doors can help you pick the right siding for your property. We can go over a variety of materials, costs, and comparisons to help you make an informed decision that is tailored to your property. Contact us today for a quote.
