Types of Siding Materials

Few home improvements or repairs can improve the appearance, curb appeal and value of your house like new house siding. Siding can be a beautifying and cost effective element of any home, and there are many options in siding materials that homeowners can select from, even going so far as to mix designs in multi-story homes. If you're shopping for new or replacement siding, you'll want something that sets your home apart from the rest, but also protects it for decades to come. When selecting siding, there are some basic issues to consider:

Water Resistance: The water-resistant siding will have a longer lifespan.

Installation: If you plan to install the siding yourself, you need to check if it is within your skill set and does not require you to use any special tools.

Aesthetics: Your siding will be in full view as you move in and out of your home; hence it is necessary to make sure it looks good and you are pleased with it.

Durability: The siding should be able to resist any wear and tear that accompanies the climate in the area that you live in.

There are different types of siding materials that you can use. Some of them are mentioned below:

Stucco Siding: Stucco as a siding has been in use for hundreds of years. Because it can be shaped and textured, stucco is used to achieve an array of architectural styles. It is reasonably priced, has a variety of applications and is easy to make.

Stone Siding: Stone is among the most durable of all building materials. Granite, limestone, slate, and other types of stone are beautiful and nearly impervious to all kinds of weather. While getting it installed is expensive, the upside of the investment is that stone will be as natural and attractive decades later even without having to pay too much attention on maintenance.

Brick Siding: The durability, light maintenance, and appearance of brick siding make it popular with homeowners. Made of fired clay, brick comes in different colors, textures, and sizes. Due to the cost of installation and materials, brick is at the higher end of siding costs. Under normal conditions however, brick siding will last for as long as the building stands, with nothing more than the occasional washing.

Vinyl Siding: Since its entry into the market, vinyl siding has become the most popular type because of its cost, versatility, and low maintenance. They are available in horizontal and vertical panels, shakes, shingles, fish scales, lap, and beaded designs. The only routine maintenance is an occasional wash. Warranties offered by vinyl manufacturers generally are life-long and transferable.

Siding is a product you're going to live with for a long while. If you are trying to really beautify your home, you must take your time, spend an appropriate amount of effort and prepare a rough sketch of the design; this will ensure that when you go to select the siding you do not get overwhelmed by the wide variety that is available in the market.