There are a great many options when deciding on the type of siding for a home. Certainly, one of the considerations is how to best protect a home from the elements. Those who live in Eastern New England experience harsh weather extremes, in which case the siding chosen must uphold to changes in climate while maintaining extreme durability. A New England resident should consider home siding options before making an investment in siding a new home or replacing worn siding.

Cedar Shake Vinyl Siding:

Cedar shake vinyl siding is ideal for the do-it-yourself homeowner. The siding can be installed over a long weekend and can save a frugal homeowner from the expense of labor costs. This siding is particularly durable and is designed to withstand hurricane or tropical storm force winds.

Cedar shake vinyl siding is designed to seamlessly wrap around a home. This feature prevents winds from pulling the siding away from the home and prevents moisture from getting trapped between the siding and the exterior of the home. Cedar shake vinyl siding does not warp or buckle over time and is dent-resistant. The siding is often pre-colored and eliminates the need of painting the home for many years. Cedar shake siding resembles wood siding without the hassle of insects causing damage to the home. The siding looks strikingly similar to siding made from cedar but does not come with the problems of a wood siding, such as termites, frequent painting, and lack of durability.

Veneer Stone Siding:

Stone siding adds a lovely look to any home. However, stone siding is the most expensive siding available. Veneer stone siding has the look of stone without the high price tag. Now a homeowner can enjoy the look and feel of stone without the high cost. Once installed no one but the homeowner will know the difference between true stone and veneer stone siding.

Pre-fabricated rock panels are stackable, and installation of these panels is not difficult. The veneer stone panels interlock to keep moisture from damaging the home. The addition of veneer stone siding adds strength to the home’s structure. The siding is stamped concrete in the shape of natural stone and can be ordered in a pleasing color. No painting is ever required. However, as is true with any type of siding, the siding will need to be cleaned on occasion. This can be done at a very low cost with white vinegar and water. Veneer stone siding is very durable, and no damage results from ice or hail storms.

Cement Fiber Siding:

There are many advantages to cement fiber or fiber cement siding. One such advantage is the fact that the material is utterly inflammable. Among the many worries of homeowners, fire is usually at the top of the list. Fiber cement is made up of more than 90 percent of inflammable material. A case in point is involves a fire that destroyed fire trucks almost one hundred feet away from the flames while the home constructed with fiber cement was completely protected.

The appearance of fiber cement siding is perhaps the most surprising aspect of this material. Fiber cement can resemble wood planks or wood shingles. A homeowner does not have to sacrifice the traditional look of a home to gain the many benefits of fiber cement siding. The siding is also available in a variety of colors, or, if a color is not suitable, the siding can be painted. Cement fiber siding is very low maintenance”also a factor when choosing among the myriad options in siding.

Polymeric Composite Siding:

Polymeric composite siding offers complete protection from moisture buildup or insect damage. The homeowner never has to be concerned with insect damage. Concerns about termites or other such pests are a confirmed thing of the past with polymeric composite siding. This type of siding seamlessly overlaps, preventing insects from nesting within the walls as well as preventing moisture seepage. Allergy sufferers are free from the detrimental effects of mold or mildew growth. Asthma attacks are lessened, or an asthma sufferer may never suffer an attack again while at home.

The material that comprises polymeric composite siding is also completely fireproof. Of all the worries of a homeowner, destruction by fire is perhaps the most frightening. Polymeric composite siding is virtually maintenance-free; the material never has to be repainted. This type of siding is labor-intensive, which adds to the cost and makes polymeric composite siding an expensive choice.

Brick Siding:

Modern materials certainly provide a certain look and durability to a home’s exterior. However, according to research, nothing beats, good old-fashioned brick. Brick certainly protects a home from storm damage, including strong winds and hail. Perhaps the biggest surprise is that brick can last for up to 25 years without the need for repair.

Brick siding is labor-intensive and can be expensive. There are alternatives to this problem though. One is thin brick. Thin brick can be installed over any type of existing siding. Mortar is pumped through the outside wall of the home and the siding to provide a brick exterior to any home. Brick is also available in veneer panels, similar to stone veneer. The panels are stackable and have all the benefits of brick once properly installed. The choice of brick is similar to the advantages described above”that is, moisture prevention, insect resistance, and a completely inflammable material.

Stucco Siding:

The durable look and beauty of stucco lasts for an incredibly long time. However, the installation of stucco is labor-intensive, thus adding to the expense of this option. However, if cost is not a concern, stucco is very durable and is resistant to insects. The stucco mixture is applied to chicken wire or mesh attached to wood and tar paper. The mixture is applied three times.

Stucco is also flame resistant and is mostly maintenance free; it is designed to last for generations. Stucco is designed to expand and contract with the weather, so there is little concern about the material cracking or allowing insects or moisture into the home. This siding type keeps a home very well insulated in warm or cool weather. This advantage is significant in allowing the homeowner to save on heating and cooling costs. Artistic designs can be added to the exterior walls, and the finish can be rough or smooth. Color can be added to the cement coats, providing an exterior that never requires repainting.

Conclusion:

The path to coming up with a decision on the type of exterior for one’s home can be confusing. Narrow down choices and extensively research the advantages and disadvantages of siding choice until a desirable decision can be determined. Account for the dramatic climate changes in eastern New England. Weigh cost against the time willing to spend in the home. If planning to sell in the near future, then it is likely unwise to invest in an expensive siding. However, if moving is not a concern, then choose the most affordable and durable siding available. Exterior siding is an investment and should be an enjoyable choice for many, many years to come.