Types of Siding

Quickest way to refresh your home’s exterior is to upgrade your siding (check out our previous blog on roofing here). The most popular siding option in Northern Illinois and throughout the United States is vinyl siding but your neighborhood may have requirements when it comes to color and style!

Vinyl Siding

Durable and affordable it’s easy to see why most of your neighbors use it! The varieties are almost endless, not just in terms of color, but in textural variety also; vinyl siding can be horizontal or vertical, it’s available in shakes, lap, dutch lap, or scallops! There are so many options available to homeowners that will turn your vision into reality!

Pros of vinyl siding:

• Vinyl siding comes with a 30- 40 year warranty
• Vinyl Siding can be easily cleaned with a power washer or a hose
• There are many varieties to choose from

Cons of vinyl siding:

• It’s not waterproof, only water resistant
• Vinyl siding cannot be repainted so choose your color carefully
• Falling debris can crack or puncture vinyl siding

Metal Siding

Metal siding can be very hard to distinguish from Aluminum siding by eyesight, but upon closer inspection the differences materialize! Not quite as versatile as vinyl siding metal siding can offer a unique aesthetic and may be right for you! The two most popular options are steel and aluminum.

Pros of metal siding:

• Metal siding does not mold or rot
• There is almost no required maintenance
• The color will not fade and the siding can be repainted
• Metal siding is fire resistant

Cons of metal siding:

• Metal siding can rust if it’s installed improperly
• Aluminum siding easily dents

Fiber Cement Siding

The fourth most popular siding option in the United States is Fiber Cement Siding. It is designed to mimic the look of wood but with several differences.

Pros of Fiber Cement Siding:

• Fiber Cement Siding can slow how fast a fire speds, earning an A1 rating
• Does not mold or rot
• Can be painted and comes in a variety of styles
• Lifetime warranty

Cons of Fiber Cement Board:

• Maintenance can be a factor as Fiber Cement board should be repainted every 10- 15 years and touch- ups are required if there is damage to the finish
• High cost product

Wood Siding

The natural look of wood is timeless. The natural look is a major draw for a lot of people which is how wood siding has earned its spot on this list. With varieties like pine, cedar and redwood

Pros of Wood Siding:

• The lightweight makes it easy to install
• Wood siding can be stained and painted
• Wood is very eco- friendly and energy efficient

Cons of Wood Siding:

• Constant maintenance is required and over the years can be quite expensive
• Over time insects and water can cause damage
• Needless to say, wood is not fire resistant

Brick Siding

The next most popular siding option is original Brick Siding. Brick siding will last forever unless the unforeseen happens. The number of homes covered in brick that are over 100 years old is staggering. The history of bricks in the United States is compelling, starting in 1629 when the first brick kiln was built in Salem Massachusetts.

Pros of Brick Siding

• Brick is going to last several decades with little maintenance
• Brick is fire resistant
• Home insurance is often cheaper for brick homes

Cons of Brick Siding

• Easily the most expensive siding option
• Mortar joints can deteriorate over time requiring replacement

Now go for a walk around your neighborhood and try to identify these types of siding, figure out which option will make you the envy of your neighborhood!