What Type of Siding is Best for Your Home?

Do you want to improve the appearance of your home this spring? One of the best ways to do so is to install new siding. Not only does it look great and protect your home from the elements, but it also increases the value of your home and helps you get higher offers when you eventually sell. There are a variety of options when it comes to siding, and many homeowners have a tough time choosing which is best for them. Need some help with your decision? Ask yourself the following questions:

If you live in the Midwest, you have to take into consideration that we get extreme temperatures in both summer and winter. The cold climate can cause wood siding to expand and crack and usually leads to an increased need for maintenance. Heat can also have a negative effect on wood siding. Though vinyl holds up better than wood in both extremes, it can still be damaged by heat and freezing temps. The best vinyl options for homes in the Midwest is steel and fiber cement, both of which are extremely durable.

How long do you plan on living in your current home? If you plan to sell in the near future, it’s not a good idea to choose a custom color or texture that will not appeal to a wide range of prospective buyers. You may also want to avoid choosing a high-cost option like fiber cement as you won’t be able to enjoy your investment for a long period of time. Vinyl will still look great to buyers in the next few years, and involves a lower investment.

If you plan to own your home for at least ten years, choosing fiber cement or steel is a good option as they will both hold their value and offer plenty of resale value when you do decide to sell far into the future. They’ll also provide you and your family with more protection and will be easier to maintain than less expensive options.

What are your reasons for getting new siding on your home? Do you want something low-maintenance so you can stop worrying about staining or painting your home’s exterior? Are you trying to sell your home and want to increase the curb appeal to attract more buyers? Are you looking for a budget-friendly option that will quickly improve your home’s appearance? Understanding your goals for replacing your siding will help you make a solid decision on which material best fits your needs.

If budget is your top concern, vinyl and wood will be your best options. If you want a low-maintenance option, vinyl also fits the bill, but wood will require regular maintenance and repairs and should be avoided. If a durable, quality, low-maintenance result is the reason for replacing your siding, fiber cement or steel are your best choices. Fiber cement is at the highest end of the cost spectrum, but well worth the investment if you can afford it. Steel is the next most expensive and requires little to no maintenance. Both steel and fiber cement options will not have to be replaced or repaired for decades.

Most homeowners want to upgrade their siding to better protect their home or to improve their home’s appearance. For concern with appearance, keep in mind that different types of siding offer varying levels of customization. Do you want a home that blends in with the neighborhood or do you want a home that stands out and is unique? Vinyl and wood are the best options if you want a wide range of possible looks. They both are available in hundreds of color choices and vinyl is also available in a variety of different textures. Steel and fiber cement will always look good, but they are not as customizable.  

The number of siding options available to homeowners can often be overwhelming. If you need help with your selection, the experienced team at Siefken Contracting can help. Contact one of our knowledgeable employees today to talk through your options.