Siding materials provide decades of protection and good looks. But there comes the point when patching rotted areas or fading colors results in the once lovely siding becoming a drain on the home’s appearance and property value. When the time comes to make a change, it’s essential for community members to select a siding material that delivers years of curbside appeal. It’s also crucial to consider which materials provide the cost-effective value frugal New Englanders expect. The following rank among the best-suited materials for siding homes in the Northeast.
1. Vinyl Siding
This siding material ranks among the most popular due to its low cost and reduced maintenance needs. Versatile and relatively inexpensive to install, vinyl siding remains the top-selling material in the U.S. Although widely used, some homeowners are not enamored with using plastic types of materials on the exterior of their homes. Vinyl possesses a life expectancy of 20-40 years. Working families on budgets may want to weigh the low cost and color versatility against other options.
2. Wood Siding
Wood siding continues to be a classic New England siding material. Colonial and Cape Cod designs, among others, seem to rely on natural wood to complete their historical ambiance. A quality wood siding installation can last upwards of 100 years. Types vary from clapboard to individual shingles and finishes range from natural, colored stains, to paint. The inherent attractiveness also requires ongoing maintenance, refinishing, and proactive measures to deter wood-boring insects. Key reasons to select wood siding revolve around longevity, improved real estate value, and beauty.
3. Brick Siding
Brick ranks among the strongest and most durable siding materials available. Classic red bricks last hundreds of years and provide security against high windstorms and insects. Commonly used in home designs such as Colonials, Tudors, and English cottages, brick rarely calls for re-pointing or cleaning. This type of exterior typically requires a higher upfront investment than others in its class. However, thin brick veneer materials are lowering costs while delivering strength, durability, and good looks.
4. Fiber-Cement Siding
The siding industry uses advanced technology to create a best-of-both-worlds material. Fiber cement offers the durability of wood and brick but at a lower cost. These materials also protect against termite infestations and are fire-resistant. Although they do not necessarily possess the classic luster of natural wood, quality fiber-cement clapboards are generally considered a step above vinyl siding. Generally lasting up to 50 years, working families on a budget may find this material the best balance in terms of cost and appearance.
Although these tend to be the more prevalently employed siding materials in New England, wide-reaching options are available. Stone, stone-veneer, traditional stucco, engineered wood, and metal are among the lesser-used materials in the region. It’s essential for homeowners to consider each material in terms of cost, durability, maintenance requirements, and the level of beautification it delivers.
Work With A New England Contractor You Can Trust
We hope this information about siding materials helps members of our community make informed decisions. If you are considering residing your home or commercial building, Diamond Hill Builders provides cost-effective solutions. Contact our Exeter, N.H. office to discuss your upcoming home improvement project today.
