Types Of Siding
Wood Siding– Wood siding is a traditional choice that provides a natural look along with insulation. It is easy to paint or stain and typically easy to install. It also appeals to eco-conscious consumers as it is a renewable resource and therefore environmentally friendly compared to other siding materials.
Pine And Cedar Siding– Pine and cedar siding are specific wood siding options that offer different benefits. Pine can be very affordable in comparison to cedar but cedar is more likely to resist wood rot and insects. Cedar is also more stable in that it will not expand, contract or warp like pine.
Wood Shingle Siding– Wood shingles are made as thin, tapered pieces of wood to provide an aesthetic appeal while still providing protection from the elements.
Engineered Wood Siding– This siding material is made of wood stands that are coated with a resin binder and then compressed to create boards that resist moisture, rot, and pests.
Vinyl Siding– Vinyl siding is a plastic siding that can imitate wood clapboard, board and batten or shakes.
Stone Veneer Siding– Stone veneer siding is an accent siding that gives the appearance of natural stone.
Fiber Cement Siding– Fiber cement siding is used to cover the exterior of a building.
The Pros And Cons Of Different Siding Materials
Wood Siding Materials- Wood is considered an environmentally friendly option as it does not emit pollutants, is biodegradable, and is a renewable source. It is highly durable if maintained properly and there are multiple types to choose from. Options like pine and cedar are two of the most popular choices. However, each wood type offers its pros and cons. Pine is an affordable choice but it does not resist rot or insects to the same capacity that cedar can. Cedar is also more resistant to warping, cracking, and expanding, unlike pine. Though wood materials can be more cost-effective overall, they do need to be maintained more often and they do not provide any insulation.
Engineered Wood Siding– This type of wood siding is resistant to moisture, rot, and pests, unlike its natural wood counterparts. It is lighter than actual wood siding and therefore easier to install and is extremely low maintenance. It can however fade quickly and is not environmentally friendly.
Vinyl Siding– There are a lot of options to choose from when it comes to vinyl siding. It is a low-maintenance material that is resistant to mold and mildew itself but is also known to cover up mold and mildew issues that be growing behind it on other house materials. This durable, option is fairly easy to install, is not quick to fade, and is cost-effective compared to most products but it is not environmentally friendly as high heat can cause it to emit toxins and even cause it to warp.
Stone Veneer Siding– This siding is used as an accent option and is very cost-effective compared to other natural sources like real stone. Very little maintenance is required and it is easy to install but it will not add the same value to your home as real stone can.
Fiber Cement Siding– This material is pest, weather, moisture, and rot-resistant. It is also non-combustible but requires specific installation measures making it not easy to install and is not something that should be done on your own.
Common Siding Materials Used In The Pacific NW
Vinyl siding makes a lot of sense when it comes to a siding that will withstand the weather patterns here in the Pacific NW. Vinyl siding has a lot of options to choose from and is resistant to mold and mildew which can easily become a problem in this area. It’s a great option for those on a budget but it does not offer the same curb appeal as other materials like natural wood options.
Natural wood options are signature of the Pacific Northwest’s beauty where we are surrounded by trees and greenery. They bring the beauty of our area to our home and resonate with many residents who tend to be more eco-conscious. It is more costly than vinyl siding and will require more maintenance but it offers greater curb appeal and also impacts a home’s overall value.
Fiber cement is an option that appeals to many homeowners as it provides a more finished look but can also save money when compared to natural wood materials like cedar. Many modern homes are using fiber cement as an option as it is low maintenance, cost-effective over the long run and still provides the aesthetic buyers are looking for.
Whether you are looking to build a home or do some home renovations, it’s important to look over the specifics of the materials you are looking to use. Every material will have its pros and cons but understanding what each material provides will help you know how to choose the right type of siding for your Pacific NW home.
