Siding is more than just a decorative component; it’s an essential part of your home’s protection against the elements. In today’s post, the siding installers at Austin Pro Siding, Windows & Roofing take a look at what siding does for your home.
Siding and the Exterior Walls
Standard building methods utilize a frame where insulation, fenestrations and utilities are installed. The outdoor-facing part of the frame is covered by a protective layer — whereas the roof has a layer of asphalt shingles or sheet metal, the exterior walls have siding. While some people refer to the siding as the house’s raincoat, it does far more than protect your home from the rain. Siding also helps protect the exterior walls from damage caused by impact and trapped moisture. Certain types of siding can even help improve the house’s energy efficiency by serving as an additional layer of insulation.
Siding is also an important visual component. As it covers about half of the house’s exterior, siding selection is never arbitrary; it must complement the roof and other parts of the exterior. This is why reputable siding replacement companies take the utmost care in helping their clients pick the right siding. After all, it’s one of the few exterior components that are clearly visible from the curb, and whatever siding the homeowner chooses will stay on for many years.
Types of Siding
“Which siding should I get?” is among the most frequently-asked questions homeowners ask. There’s really no definitive answer to this because of factors like the home style, its requirements and the homeowner’s budget. Here’s a quick rundown of the siding types offered by siding contractors:
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Vinyl is the most popular type mainly because of its low maintenance requirements. It comes in molded-in colors, which means painting it is optional, and it can be kept clean with only water and mild dish detergent. Some vinyl siding products feature an insulating layer, for improved energy efficiency.
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Wood siding remains one of the most-used siding materials, and homeowners often choose it for its natural beauty. Wood is used for making most types of siding, particularly clapboard, but today it is best known for hand-cut shakes, which creates a rustic look. It’s important to note that wood siding has higher maintenance requirements.
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Fiber cement is a type of manufactured material made with wood fiber, Portland cement and silica from sand. It offers a good balance between durability and weather resistance. You’re probably already familiar with fiber cement siding through manufacturer James Hardie®.
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Metal siding is not as popular as it used to be, but many home styles call for siding made of aluminum or stainless steel. Some types of metal siding are cladded with vinyl for easy maintenance.
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Brick or stone need no introduction — they’re the oldest types of siding that are still used in homes today. When installed correctly, they’re impact-resistant and look great even without painting.
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Stucco is typically seen on Mediterranean-style homes. It may look like a solid layer of material, but it’s breathable and water-resistant at the same time.
When you’re ready to get new siding for your home, let one of the most trusted siding companies in San Antonio help you. Give Austin Pro Siding, Windows & Roofing a call at (210) 906-0046, or fill out our contact form to schedule a consultation.
