The siding of your home plays a couple of important roles that you probably don’t even think about until there’s a problem. Not only does it aid in protecting you and your family from the elements, but it also gives your house character and overall style.
Deciding to replace your siding is not an easy choice. It’s certainly not the cheapest choice you’ll make for your home, either. The good news is the siding that you choose will be around for quite a while. It’s not something you change very often. This long-term commitment makes it even more necessary for you to educate yourself about your siding choices, including the good and bad of all of them, as you move forward with this key home improvement.
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Is It Really Time for a Replacement?
You might think that your siding has seen better days, but a simple crack in a small area does not mean you need to replace everything. There are simple repairs that can be done by someone experienced in that sort of home improvement. If there are many cracks and they seem to be multiplying, especially if they have been around for a while or you’re not sure how long they have been there, replacement might be necessary.
Do you know how old your siding is? It is easy for it to become brittle over the years, and you do not want to continue to repair it repeatedly. Instead, it may be a good time to do something new. Besides, you may not be able to find siding that matches your original color any longer. Some of the biggest signs you need to make siding replacement for your next home improvement project include:
- Chipping or cracking
- Peeling
- Discoloration
- Wood rotting
- Animal or insect infestation
- Bubbling
What Types of Siding Are Available?
You may have been doing your research or asking around about the different types of siding available to you and what would be best for the typical weather conditions in your area. Some of the main kinds of siding include the following.
Vinyl
Vinyl is and has been a very popular material to use on homes. It lasts anywhere from 20 to 40 years and comes in many colors to choose from. In addition, it is typically less expensive and requires little maintenance.
Pros –
- Inexpensive
- Looks nice
- Little to no maintenance
- Many color choices
Cons –
- Could lower your home value
- Can fade in certain spots that get direct sun all-day
Wood
Wood siding has existed since the beginning, and it’s still around for a reason. Lasting about 40 years, this home improvement siding choice is the most expensive option, with the most maintenance requirements. However, it’s extremely beautiful stained or painted, and can be included on any style of home.
Pros –
- Increases your home value
- Can be stained or painted in any color
- Environmentally friendly
Cons –
- Expensive
- Attracts insects and animals, causing damage
- Maintenance concerns?
Fiber Cement
Lasting 50-plus years, fiber cement siding is one of the most popular siding choices for home improvements today. As one of the best and easiest choices for replacing cracked stucco, fiber cement is a distinct style that holds up against dents and weather damage.
Pros –
- Great color choices
- Masonry style look
- Acceptable to most Homeowner Associations
- Resistant to weather damage
- Can be cleaned with a simple garden hose
Cons –
- Not the cheapest option
Stone Veneer Siding
This type of siding is a bit more traditional but adds a beautiful touch to your home. While this is a siding option, it can also be used as a type of backsplash on walls or fireplaces, as well. It is quite the versatile home improvement material!
Pros –
- Excellent return on investment (R.O.I.)
- Looks like real stone
- Lighter material than natural stone
- More affordable than real stone
- Lasts 20-75 years
- Many styles and textures to choose from
Cons –
- Not a natural stone– make sure to choose a style that is more realistic-looking, as some can look very prefabricated
Aluminum
Aluminum is one of the most outdated siding products you can use. It is NOT recommended, as it is expensive and high maintenance, especially in areas with dramatic temperature changes. Sticking to other kinds of siding for your home improvement will be your best bet.
How To Choose the Right Siding Contractor
Many people claim to be experienced home improvement siding installers, and maybe some of them even are, but how do you know which contractor is the right one for you to hire? With so many choices, how would you even begin to choose? After all, it’s not all just about the price– there are several factors to consider when making this choice.
Look out for red flags. For example, perhaps a home improvement contractor has the lowest price out of everybody by far. Or someone who won’t write down a contract or even email you in written form what is planned and what the cost will be. Maybe you find a contractor that is always making excuses for being late, for not having the right material, and more. If you notice that your contractor is doing some or all these things, it might be time to look for someone new.
As you work to get quotes from different companies, make sure to ask if they are licensed and insured and even ask for proof. Look for reviews online and ask for references of people who you can talk to that they have worked for recently. Be aware of how long they have been installing siding, particularly the kind you choose to do. And finally, ask for a timeline that you can depend on so you don’t keep getting pushed down the line behind other jobs.
Consult with Trusted Home Contractors
Magnolia Home Remodeling Group is a siding contractor and home improvement company with stellar customer service and exceptionally skilled siding repair and replacement professionals. Your home’s curb appeal matters, and we look forward to giving you not only the look you desire but the quality your home needs to keep you and your family safe and happy.
Contact Magnolia Home Remodeling Group for a free quote and learn more about the best options for repair or replacement siding on your home.