The right house siding for your residence adds beauty and curb appeal while protecting your home from the elements. Insulated siding offers the added benefits of a more comfortable home and lower energy bills. If you are building your home from the ground up or need to replace your current house siding, review a few faqs before consulting with your siding contractors.

FAQ About House Siding

Which Types Are There?

House siding typically comes in vinyl, brick, wood, metal, fiber cement, stucco, and stone. Wood, brick, stone, and stucco siding are among those celebrated for their classic appeal; however, they are also more expensive.

Fiber cement imitates the look of wood, masonry, or stucco without the high price. Vinyl siding is the least expensive but has traditionally been considered the least appealing. However, vinyl siding color options have increased over the years and it comes in insulated varieties.

Which Options Last The Longest?

Stone, brick, and stucco last as long as the house does when they are properly installed and maintained. Fiber cement lasts anywhere from 20 to 50 years, while vinyl typically lasts 20 to 40 years and features easily-replaceable panels. Wood options last from 10 to 100 years depending on the wood type and treatment, such as anti-termite treatments.

What Does Siding Maintenance Involve?

It depends on the type of house siding you select. Vinyl siding is among your low-maintenance options because it never requires painting and does well with periodic rinsing to eliminate dirt and grime. Fiber cement needs virtually no maintenance at all thanks to its excellent durability. Wood requires painting or staining every few years to keep up its appearance. Stucco and stone are porous materials requiring annual cleanings, while brick does best with a membrane between it and the house to avoid moisture damage.

How Will I Know When It’s Time For Replacement?

House siding exhibits numerous signs when it needs replacing, such as the denting and warping of vinyl siding due to damage, age, or improper installation. Flaking, chalky, or bubbling paint can appear on wood siding when moisture levels are high or the paint has simply begun to break down. It can also sustain termite damage without treatment. Additionally, house siding can create window and wall leaks when it needs repairs or replacement.

 

Ontario Exteriors has installed house siding with the attention to detail Rochester, NY area residents have trusted since 1995. Regarded as the region’s best siding contractors, this outstanding company also features fully insured roofing contractors to provide you with a wider range of services. Call (585) 421-0880 today to make an appointment with this renowned Rochester company or visit the website for a complete service list. Like the Twitter feed for a steady stream of home improvement tips.