Common Types of Siding & Their Benefits
Whether you’re building a new home or replacing the damaged siding on your existing residence, you have far more to consider than just looks. Your siding needs to protect your home from harsh weather, improve energy efficiency, and increase your resale value.
With so many siding options available, finding the best siding for your Northern Virginia home can feel overwhelming. The climate here demands durable siding materials that can handle humid summers, cold winters, and unpredictable storms.
Colonial Contracting, Inc. can help you weigh the pros and cons of five different siding materials to help you find the perfect match:
Vinyl Siding
Vinyl siding is widely used in Northern Virginia and across the U.S. It’s affordable, versatile, and requires minimal upkeep, making it one of the best home exterior upgrades if you’re on a budget. Available in countless colors and styles, vinyl siding can mimic wood, stone, or even brick.
Benefits of vinyl siding:
- Affordable installation: The cost of siding installation is lower when you choose vinyl.
- Low maintenance: This material doesn’t need painting or sealing — just an occasional rinse with a garden hose.
- Weather resistance: Vinyl holds up well against rain, wind, and humidity, making it a weather-resistant siding choice for Northern Virginia.
- Energy-efficient options: Insulated vinyl siding reduces heat transfer for improved energy efficiency.
- Long lifespan: With proper care, vinyl siding can last 20 to 40 years.
Bottom line: If you want an easy-to-maintain, budget-friendly option, vinyl siding is a fantastic choice.
Engineered Wood Siding
If you love a rustic, natural look, engineered wood siding is worth considering. This material adds warmth and charm to any home.
Benefits of wood siding:
- Timeless appearance: Natural wood grain and texture provides a warm, inviting look.
- Customizability: Engineered wood can be stained or painted in any color for complete design flexibility.
- Environmentally friendly appeal: Wood is a renewable resource, especially when sourced from responsibly managed forests.
- Insulating properties: Wood is a naturally energy-efficient siding material that helps regulate indoor temperatures.
- Long lifespan: Most engineered wood siding lasts 20 to 60 years.
Bottom line: The benefits of engineered wood siding are undeniable, but it does require periodic maintenance to look its best and maximize its lifespan.
Fiber Cement Siding
If you want the look of wood without maintenance, fiber cement siding is a perfect alternative. Made from cement, sand, and cellulose fibers, this siding is designed to be strong and low-maintenance.
Benefits of fiber cement siding:
- Versatile appearance: Fiber cement can mimic the look of wood, vinyl, stucco, or stone siding.
- High durability: This robust siding material stands up to moisture, pests, and fire better than vinyl or wood.
- Low-maintenance: Unlike wood, fiber cement siding does not need frequent repainting or sealing.
- Resistance to cracking and warping: Looking for the best siding for cold climates? How about the best siding for hot climates? Fiber cement can claim both titles.
- Long lifespan: Fiber cement siding lasts 30 to 50 years with minimal upkeep.
Bottom line: If you prioritize durability, fire resistance, and minimal maintenance, fiber cement siding is an excellent choice.
Aluminum & Steel Metal Siding
Consider metal siding for a modern, industrial look in a sleek, highly durable package. Available in aluminum and steel, metal is resistant to fire, pests, and extreme weather.
Benefits of metal siding:
- Exceptional durability: Both aluminum siding and steel siding are resistant to moisture, insects, and fire.
- Minimal maintenance: Unlike wood, metal siding does not need painting, sealing, or frequent repairs.
- Energy efficiency: Reflective coatings reduce cooling costs, making metal one of the best siding for hot climates.
- Rust resistance: Aluminum doesn’t rust, and steel can be coated to prevent corrosion.
- Longest lifespan: Expect your metal siding to last 40 to 70 years, making this the longest siding lifespan.
Bottom line: While metal siding offers longevity and strength, it’s more expensive upfront than vinyl or engineered wood. However, the long lifespan often makes it a worthwhile investment.
Cedar Siding
Of the various wood siding options available, cedar siding is among the most durable and visually striking. It has a rich, warm appearance and contains natural oils that protect it from moisture and pests.
Benefits of cedar siding:
- Resistance to the elements: Unlike other wood species, cedar siding is naturally resistant to rot, insects, and mildew.
- Rich, rustic appeal: The deep grain and warm tones of cedar make it a favorite for high-end homes.
- Energy-efficient properties: Cedar siding provides better insulation than many synthetic materials.
- Customizable finish: Decide whether to paint, stain, or leave the wood natural.
- Long lifespan: Cedar siding can last 20 to 40 years with routine cleaning and occasional sealing, staining, or painting.
Bottom line: Cedar siding needs extra care, but if you’re willing to put in the effort, it can be a stunning and durable addition to your Northern Virginia home.
House Siding Cost: Which Is the Most Affordable?
Now that we’ve covered the different types of siding, like cedar shingles, vinyl, and more, it’s time for a review of the pros and cons, starting with the price.
If the price is of utmost importance, we suggest starting with vinyl. This durable material is a great option for your home’s exterior and avoids the high maintenance headaches of other options.
Next on the list is wood siding, like cedar shingles, metal, and fiber cement.
Among the different types of siding, expect brick and stone to take their place as the most expensive choice for your house. While these options are also among the longest-lasting and durable selections for your home, their high cost may not make sense for every homeowner.
Best Siding for Your House: Which Is Most Cost-Efficient?
To determine which option is the most efficient for your home, consider both the initial costs as well as how long the siding you choose will last.
While an option like brick may be more expensive, it has one of the longest life spans. It’s also helpful to weigh how long you may stay in your home after any installation.
Working with an experienced contractor can help you select what’s best for your budget and home.
Trust CCI to Install New Siding
When it’s time for a siding replacement or a new installation, you need a team that delivers quality workmanship you can trust.
Colonial Contracting, Inc. has helped Northern Virginia homeowners with home exterior upgrades since 1997.
As a family-owned and -operated business, we take pride in our attention to detail and outstanding customer service.
Looking for a siding contractor near me? Contact us today for a free, no-obligation siding inspection.
