Siding helps protect homes against a variety of exterior environmental conditions. From sun and heat to heavy rains, snow and wind, good siding also defends against mold, rot and other damage.
In addition to visual appeal, many people choose a specific type of siding for practical reasons. A durable, low-maintenance material such as vinyl can unify a facade, while brick or timber cladding can add an architecturally interesting aesthetic to a property. Click the Montana Siding to know more.
Natural wood is a timeless, classic material that gives homes a warm, finished look. It is also a naturally insulating choice, keeping your home cool in the summer and warm in the winter. It is easy to paint or stain, allowing homeowners the freedom to customize their home exterior with colors and textures that will suit their tastes. Other materials, such as vinyl and plastic, do not hold up to painting or staining the way that wood can.
There are a variety of different types of natural wood that can be used for siding, such as pine, spruce, and cedar. Some woods, such as ash and redwood, are naturally insect-resistant and will protect your home from mold, rot, and other problems caused by moisture. Other natural woods, such as Garapa, are becoming popular due to their strength and durability. Garapa has a light color pigment that stands up to intense sun exposure, reflecting heat outward and preventing your home from overheating. However, these types of natural woods can be expensive and difficult to find.
Choosing natural wood can also help you create a unique and distinctive street presence for your home. Whether you choose to use it for all of your home’s cladding or to accent areas of the house, it is sure to add character and charm that will set your home apart from others. It can be used to create a wide variety of styles, from rustic to contemporary, and can be enhanced with the use of other materials such as stone and brick.
Another advantage of natural wood is its recyclability, allowing you to recycle it at the end of its lifespan and reducing your carbon footprint. Many people are also drawn to the insulating properties of natural wood, which can make your home more comfortable and energy-efficient. When paired with an insulated wall system, natural wood can be an excellent choice for your next home project. Be sure to choose wood that is harvested sustainably and that has been recycled from existing projects so that you can feel good about your environmental impact.
Engineered/Composite Wood
When looking for something that looks like natural wood but is more durable and requires less maintenance, engineered/composite wood siding may be the answer. It is a combination of hardwoods and softwoods that have been fused with high heat and adhesive additives. It is a more cost-effective choice than natural wood, but still has the look of real wood and comes in different colors. It also offers more flexibility than natural wood and is resistant to warping, rot, mold, mildew, insects, and other weather damage. It will last 20-30 years and can be used for the entire exterior of your home.
There are many engineered wood options available and each has its pros and cons. One option is KWP SmartSiding, which has a long lifespan, has good insulating properties, and comes in a wide variety of profiles and colors. It is sustainable because it uses recycled materials and does not contain urea formaldehyde, which is known to cause respiratory, skin, and eye irritation. KWP is also not treated with zinc borate, which can be harmful to the environment and humans.
Its insulating properties are enhanced because it uses a laminated core of strand lumber and particle board, which is more dense than plywood or OSB and reduces wicking moisture. It also has a dimensionally stable core, which is important for a long-lasting product. It is manufactured with a proprietary resin system that does not release formaldehyde, and it contains reclaimed wood and post-consumer fibers.
The manufacturer’s design of this cladding includes a vapor barrier to protect the structure from moisture that can cause rot and mildew. It is also more resilient against abrasions and impact damage than traditional wood siding and can resist the expansion and contraction caused by changing temperatures.
In addition to the inherent insulating qualities of this type of siding, it is easy to install and provides an attractive appearance for your home. In most cases, contractors will use an insulating material, such as Tyvek Home Wrap, under the siding to further reduce energy loss. This can be beneficial for homeowners who are concerned about escalating energy bills or want to live in an environmentally friendly manner.
Metal
Metal siding is made from steel that’s molded into different design styles. These include corrugated panels, crimped sheets, and standing seams. Homeowners can choose the style that suits their aesthetic tastes best and also matches their home’s structure and roof. These siding types are also a good choice for builders looking for a durable and attractive finish. Metal is highly resistant to warping, fading, cracking, and chipping, so homeowners can expect it to look fresh and appealing for years to come. A simple rinse with the hose is usually all that’s needed to keep metal siding clean and free of dirt and debris.
Homeowners can also use a variety of paint colors and textures to customize their metal siding. This flexibility allows them to create a look that complements the overall design of their homes and gives it an inviting appearance. The only downside of metal is that it doesn’t insulate as well as other siding materials. However, this problem can be addressed by adding a layer of insulation underneath the metal.
Like wood, metal siding is non-combustible and resists the growth of mold and mildew. It’s also resistant to the damage caused by wind and hail, which is a huge benefit for people living in areas that experience extreme weather conditions.
Homeowners who decide to go with metal should know that it is fairly expensive compared to other siding options. It’s important to speak with a retailer about what options are available and the differences in cost for each type of metal siding. This information can help homeowners make the right decision and save money on their energy bills. It’s also a good idea to perform routine maintenance checks and replace damaged panels as soon as they become noticeable, which can reduce the risk of water leaks or other serious damage. Also, homeowners should wear safety equipment while cutting and handling metal siding pieces to avoid injury. This includes wearing sturdy gloves and eye protection. In addition, they should take care not to install it during rain or snowfall since moisture trapped behind the siding can lead to expensive damages.
Vinyl
Vinyl siding is a popular choice for homeowners today, and was first manufactured during the 1950s. It’s made by combining up to 80% polyvinyl chloride (PVC) resin with a blend of ingredients that determines other characteristics like color, flexibility, texture, and resistance. It’s a sturdy material that can withstand heavy wind and rain, and it doesn’t crack or rot like wood does either. It’s also a slow conductor of heat and cold, which helps to keep homes that are sided with vinyl warmer in the winter and cooler in the summer.
Another great feature about this siding is that it’s incredibly durable and easy to maintain. Unlike natural or engineered wood, it doesn’t need to be painted or stained regularly. The best you have to do is hose it down occasionally to get rid of dirt and debris. Additionally, this siding is resistant to fading, so you don’t have to worry about it losing its vibrant color over time.
When it comes to choosing the right color, homeowners can find a huge selection of hues to complement their home’s architecture and style. There are even several options to mimic the look of different types of wood, so you can find a shade that matches perfectly with your existing materials. Some of the most popular colors include Mountain Berry, Willow, and Granite Grey.
Despite its popularity, there are a few drawbacks to consider before you decide to go with this type of siding. For example, it’s not as good for insulating homes as other cladding materials. Depending on where you live, you might notice that vinyl will expand and contract more than other materials during extreme temperature changes, which can lead to breakage of the planks.
Lastly, you should be aware that this type of siding doesn’t add as much to the value of your home as natural or engineered wood does. This may be a problem if you’re looking to sell your house in the future, as potential buyers might be turned off by the plastic look of the home. The affordability and ease of maintenance are a big selling point, but it’s important to weigh the pros and cons of this type of siding before you make your decision.