New Paint or New Siding?

There once was a time when homeowners would venture outside every few years to repaint the exterior of their home. Time after time they noticed that the new paint just wasn't lasting as long as they had hoped. What could save these poor homeowners' time and hard earned money? If you find yourself feeling like one of these homeowners, then home siding installation might be the answer for you.

Choosing the siding that is right for your home is like selecting a jacket that will protect you from wind, rain and drastic temperatures. Siding refers to a material that is applied to the exterior of a structure as a finishing surface. Siding is also an important component of the design of your home. When selecting siding, certain things must be reviewed.  Understanding the architectural design of your home, characteristics of materials and the local weather and lifestyle differences are very crucial to selecting the proper siding.  

Climate plays a serious role in home siding. For example, homes in the Northwest or Mid-Atlantic face severe weather extremes, from hot, humid summers to cold winters.  In such climates stucco construction does not hold up well. To adjust to the local surroundings, homes there tend to have brick exteriors, or composite or vinyl siding, resistant to wood rot and easily maintainable.  

Today an assortment of siding materials exists in various designs and colors. The most commonly used materials include wood, aluminum, steel, vinyl and masonry. Wood siding offers a very beautiful look to a home. With the proper surface treatment, the wood can be protected from warping, decay, and insect infestation. Masonry siding, on the other hand, tends to be relatively low in maintenance.  Masonry siding includes brick, stone, cement and stucco materials.  It is often a bit pricy, but the result is a long-lasting, nonflammable exterior.  

Aluminum and steel siding are the most common metal sidings used for homes.  They are available in a variety of colors and patterns and are reasonably priced. Steel siding usually costs more than aluminum, but it is also more durable and long lasting.  Homes that face harsh hailstorms will benefit from steel siding.  

Vinyl siding is very popular among residential housing.  It doesn't blister, peel, rot or rust, but it may fade. The coloring of vinyl goes all through the piece of material.  Vinyl is non-combustible, but high heat may cause the material to melt, bend or sag.  

It is often difficult to decide which siding is right for your home.  Every climate and architectural design benefits from a different material. Visit www.UnitedHomeImprovement.com for a free siding quote.

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