Exterior siding is a standout feature that can completely transform the appearance of your home. It provides beautiful aesthetic value, while also serving a functional purpose.
If the siding on your home needs to be replaced, you have many decisions ahead of you.
- What type of siding material do you prefer?
- Do you want vertical or horizontal siding?
- What amount of upkeep can you commit to?
- Is there a certain color that matches the trim, brick, or other building materials on your home?
- Do you live in a particular climate that affects one type of siding more than another?
- Are you working with a tight budget that might exclude certain kinds of siding?
Siding comes in a variety of styles and appearances, so it is important to know your options and be educated about the possibilities. To help you make the right choice for your home, let’s discuss a few elements you should consider before you begin this big project.
Siding Materials For the Exterior of Your Home
Denver lumber companies offer numerous siding material options. A simple Internet search will bring up all sorts of possibilities, from fiber cement siding and hardie board siding to faux stone veneer siding and engineered wood siding.
Before you get too overwhelmed by the wide array of options, it is important to note that climate and weather conditions matter when it comes to siding materials. Specific materials are more commonly used than others, especially depending on where you live. Knowing which materials experienced builders choose for homes in your area can help you eliminate certain types of siding materials when trying to determine the best type for your house.
Even the most durable siding material will fail if installed in the wrong climate. For example, stucco siding is extremely popular in parts of the country, but is not the proper fit for areas where homes may settle due to the soil composition. Variables that can impact the durability of siding include rain, snow, hail, humidity, hurricanes, temperature highs and lows, UV exposure, and the general topography of your region.
Vertical Versus Horizontal Siding
When replacing the exterior siding on your home, selecting a material is just one element of the decision-making process. You will also need to decide if you want to install horizontal siding or vertical siding.
Historically, horizontal siding on homes has been the norm, with vertical siding reserved for commercial structures. This is why vertical siding on a home is considered a more unique look with a modern appeal to it.
Either style comes with advantages and drawbacks, so it is important to weigh the pros and cons before you make your selection. Here are a few considerations:
● The Look of Vertical Siding – Homeowners are falling in love with this trendy yet versatile take on siding. Vertical siding is bound to increase your curb appeal and become an eye-catching attribute of your home. It can also give height to a small home and make it appear taller.
● The Look of Horizontal Siding – Horizontal siding is an accepted standard. Some realtors might argue that it is best to keep this traditional feel to your home in order to maintain widespread appeal. While you might like the look of vertical siding, others may not enjoy it, making horizontal siding a safe choice.
● The Upkeep of Vertical Siding – Vertical siding is easier to clean than horizontal siding. The water streams down the long vertical planks, allowing the dirt and debris to easily flow off the siding to the ground.
● The Upkeep of Horizontal Siding – Because of the structural design of horizontal siding, water can get behind it. This not only impacts the long-term durability of horizontal siding, but it makes it difficult to clean too. Horizontal siding requires a special cleaning technique to ensure water does not seep between the slats.
● The Cost of Vertical Siding – Vertical siding installation costs more than horizontal siding installation for a number of reasons. The installation process is labor-intensive, complex, and time-consuming. To have vertical siding installed properly, you must place furring strips in between each one of the pieces. These strips help to even out the surface and make the siding appear smooth. Also, the strips protect against water leakage and damage. (The cost of the strips also further increases the overall price of vertical siding.)
● The Cost of Horizontal Siding – If you are tight on time and money, horizontal siding is the perfect solution. It is simple to install, which ultimately makes it quick to install, decreasing your labor costs. With horizontal siding, you will have a new look to your home in no time.
Finalizing Your Decision
If you are torn between materials and installation styles, don’t be afraid to mix and match your options. Put up horizontal siding in one area and vertical siding in another, all while choosing a material that performs well in your climate.
Replacing the siding on your home can feel like an overwhelming process. Want to talk to a knowledgeable expert about your home exterior siding project? Denver lumber suppliers are an excellent resource.
New siding is a significant addition to any home and quite the financial investment. Research your choices, make a decision, and then get ready to admire the beautiful look of your transformed home.
