Why Homeowners Choose to Install Siding on Their Homes

Siding serves an essential function of protecting the home’s insulation and wood frame from insect infestation, weather damage, and moisture build-up. Inspecting and replacing your siding regularly can help prevent water damage to the home’s interior and save you money in the long run.

Siding comes in a wide variety of colors, textures, and styles. The type you choose will affect the cost, durability, maintenance, and aesthetic of your home. Contact Top Notch Roofing/Siding for professional help.

The cost of siding varies according to material and style. It is also affected by the location of your home because labor costs and the price of materials vary according to local market conditions. Additionally, the condition of your existing siding can influence the cost of a new installation or repair. If your siding is damaged, you should consider repairing it rather than replacing it entirely.

In addition to the cost of materials, you should factor in other costs like labor and inspections. In some areas, work permits are required for the installation of siding. This can add a couple hundred dollars to the overall cost of your project.

Before you begin your siding project, determine how much material you will need. The easiest way to do this is by measuring the length and height of one wall of your house. You can then use this information to calculate the area of your walls. You should also take into account special areas, such as gables, and windows. If you are unsure about how to measure your walls, consult a professional to get the best results.

Once you know the square footage of your walls, you can calculate the amount of siding needed for your project. You should also remember to include the width of your door and window frames when calculating the total surface area of your walls. This will help you determine the number of sheets of siding you will need to cover your entire house.

You can also find the cost of siding online by using a calculator. The calculator will calculate the amount of material you need and provide a breakdown of the costs for different types of materials. This will help you compare prices and choose the best option for your home.

The cost of wood siding varies by type and design, with low-end options such as pine costing less than cedar or redwood. It also varies by region, as contractors typically charge more during the summer and slow down during winter. However, you should also remember that natural wood will need to be treated every 4 to 6 years to protect it from rotting and insect damage. Fiber cement, stucco and stone siding, on the other hand, are resistant to weather conditions and can be a more affordable option for homeowners.

Durability

Durability is one of the main reasons homeowners choose siding for their homes. It protects the structure from harsh weather elements and other damages and keeps it insulated. Siding can be made from a variety of materials, but the most durable options are steel, fiber cement and engineered wood.

Steel siding offers the best damage resistance of all siding types, but it also needs some maintenance to keep it looking good. It should be power washed approximately once a year. A rag can be used for light cleaning, but scrub brushes with long handles are ideal for hard-to-reach areas. If you notice any scratches on the surface, it is important to prime and paint them right away. If you don’t, the metal may rust.

Other types of durable siding include shingles, cedar shakes and stucco. These options are all aesthetically pleasing and offer natural insulating benefits. However, they can be damaged by moisture, pests and regular wear and tear. Regular visual inspections should be conducted to check for signs of damage and catch issues early.

The most durable siding material is engineered wood strands, which are designed to withstand moisture and temperature changes. It is also highly fire-resistant and non-combustible. It is available in a variety of textures and colors, and it is also easy to maintain. This type of siding is very popular and should last the lifetime of your home if properly maintained.

If you’re looking for a more economical option, fiberglass and vinyl are also extremely durable. Both of these are water-resistant and non-combustible, but they can be susceptible to cracking, warping, fading and dents. However, both are relatively inexpensive and are a great choice for homeowners who don’t want to spend a lot of money on their siding.

A newer option for a durable siding is composite. It is manufactured from a combination of resins and recycled content, making it more environmentally friendly than traditional vinyl or aluminum. Composite is also weatherproof and fire-resistant. It can be stained or painted to achieve the desired look and is available in a wide range of styles. If you’re considering a new type of siding, consult an expert to determine which options are most suitable for your location and lifestyle.

Maintenance

A home’s siding is a strong first line of defense against the elements. It protects the interior from rain, snow, extreme heat and bone-chilling cold. But it also takes a beating from the sun, wind, insects and other pests. Regular maintenance will keep it looking new and extending its life. Choosing the right materials, regular inspections and preventive work can help you avoid costly repairs down the road.

Different types of siding require different maintenance, but all should be inspected regularly to look for cracks or chipping paint and to be sure they are sealed properly. Wood siding should be inspected about every six months for damage from pests, the weather and normal wear and tear. It should be treated with a sealant and repainted about every two to five years. Fiber cement siding is not completely maintenance-free and should be inspected about every three to four years for signs of moisture penetration. It should be cleaned twice a year to remove dirt buildup and mold or mildew.

If you have vinyl siding, it should be power-washed about twice a year to remove dirt and debris. It’s important to use a pressure washer with a low setting, as high pressure can damage the material. It’s also important to do a walk-around after major storms to ensure that no boards have come loose or been damaged.

Stucco siding is a popular choice for homeowners who want to add value to their homes and create a unique architectural style. However, stucco can deteriorate with age due to the natural movement of the earth around the foundation. A professional will need to be called in to repair any damage and to prevent the occurrence of water leaks.

Metal siding is susceptible to rust and corrosion. It should be inspected regularly for rust spots, which should be sanded and treated with a rust converter. Repainting metal siding is usually necessary every five to ten years. It is also important to inspect a home’s gutters and downspouts for any blockages, which can lead to water damage to the siding.

Aesthetics

The appearance of a home’s siding can enhance or detract from its overall visual appeal. Choosing the right material, color and texture can elevate a house’s architectural style and boost its market value. Choosing a material that is both durable and low-maintenance can also be a good investment.

The siding color should match the roof, windows and landscape to create a cohesive aesthetic. The choice of color should also reflect the homeowner’s lifestyle and budget. For example, a bold or eye-catching color may not be the best option for a family with small children. It is also important to consider the home’s resale value when making this decision.

There are many options available to homeowners when it comes to a new siding color, including neutrals and classic shades that can complement almost any architectural style. Neutral colors are particularly appealing because they can be paired with many different design elements. They are also a great choice for homes with a modern or contemporary look.

Another important factor in determining the aesthetics of your siding is the trim and molding. These pieces add a polished finish to siding panels and soffit panels. They also help to conceal the cut edges of the siding. Trim and molding are often fabricated in wood, but they can also be made from other materials such as steel.

In addition to the siding’s color and profile, homeowners can choose a wide variety of textures for their home’s exterior. For example, some homeowners choose shingles to create a more rustic look while others opt for a stained look that emulates natural wood. Some homeowners even choose to combine multiple textures to achieve a more unique and artistic appearance.

When it comes to the soffit, it is important to keep in mind that this element provides ventilation to prevent water and pests from entering the house. It is also essential to consider the homeowner’s maintenance and energy efficiency goals when selecting a soffit color. In general, darker soffits absorb more heat than lighter ones and can affect the home’s overall energy efficiency.