Home Siding Options; The Best Siding Wins

Whats in a Siding?

Most people who are in the realty business, either as brokers or investors, will tell you that the external appearance of a home is inextricably linked to the value of the property. A big factor in enhancing this value is the rich and varied look one can achieve by using sidings creatively. Yes, it is all about attaining that curb appeal for your home. They also play an important role in protecting your home against dust mites, molds and bacteria.

Todays Siding Options

Deciding which siding to go in for is an important factor in achieving that look you want your home to have. Carefully chosen siding can help save energy and make a powerful statement about your home. So, selecting the right siding should be done with care, employing the right company to install it and choosing a material that is easy to maintain and replace when required. Whether it is a new home or a home improvement project for which you are looking at using sidings, it is important to select the best option the market has to offer to meet your taste and budget. Most sidings come in various sizes and finishes, as sheets, shingles, shakes or veneers, and in an amazing variety of colors.

• Vinyl sidings have gained tremendous popularity today due to their longevity and durability, as vinyl is impervious to weather conditions. They come in different shapes, sizes and finishes. With low maintenance costs, Vinyl exists as a superior choice of most home owners. Vinyl, however, can crack over time and is not the best for the environment.
• Aluminum sidings are also an option to consider if you looking for durable, scratch-resistant and maintenance-free choices. These too come in custom sizes and finishes and are fireproof, but can get dented over time.
• Hardi Plank or Fiber Cement sidings can be made to look like stucco, wood or masonry and are a good option if wood is beyond your budget. These are durable and are quickly gaining popularity as they are mostly maintenance free and fire resistant as well. Fiber Siding comes in custom shapes and sizes, does not rot, fade or get affected by wind, snow, rain and sun.
• Wood sidings have costs associated with them and are not the first option if budget is a constraint. While there is nothing like wood to give that luxurious look to your home, it needs a lot of maintenance, is not fire resistant and is prone to rot and do not stand up to scrutiny in a fire.
• Other alternatives are metal, masonry and artificial stucco, to name a few.

Considerations while choosing sidings:

Some really important considerations while making your choice are:

• Durability, deterioration factors and costs
• Long term maintenance and company warranties
• Last three installation references from the company contracted to install sidings
• Insurance covers for all contractors and sub-contractors involved
• Insulation properties, and impact on health and environment
• Types of finishes and matching accessories available
• Replacement options available

Sidings the crowning glory

Be it a new home or just re-doing your existing home, there is much to say about the role sidings play in enhancing the appearance of your home. Sidings can make even an old home look new and the wide variety of choices available make it easier to decide which one to opt for, based on your preference and affordability. The location of the place would also dictate the kind of siding you choose, as also the need for insulation and level of vulnerability to damage by the elements. Sidings form the definitive outer skin of the dwelling. Apart from being cost effective and durable, a good choice in sidings is one which has a positive impact on health and the environment. The final choice you make will have a long-term impact on the beauty and charm of your home.