If you want to brighten up the look of your home while also protecting it from rain, snow, and ice, then you should look at having siding installed. While vinyl is often a good choice, you should know that you have some other choices available to you. Read on to learn more about some of the other options and their various benefits.
Fiber Cement Siding
If you love the look of masonry but do not have a brick home, then you can opt for a fiber cement siding option. Fiber cement siding is made from a mixture of cement and cellulose. The cellulose allows the siding to remain lightweight, while the cement provides the material with optimal strength and weather resistance. This mixture also makes the siding resistant to fire damage. Specifically, even when exposed to direct flames, the material will not ignite.
Fiber cement is also protected against mold, mildew, and other types of rot. And it will not retain moisture as it ages. It is much more resistant to fading than vinyl siding as well and it is also less likely to chip or crack.
You do have quite a few options when it comes to the texture and color of the siding. You can choose one with a finish that looks like brick, wood shake, or more traditional plank wood siding. And, the siding comes in different shapes. Lap siding is more traditional, but you can buy square, half-round, octagon, shake, and vertical siding options as well.
One of the only downsides to fiber cement is the fact that the material is often more expensive than vinyl and other traditional types of siding materials.
Wood Shake Siding
Wood shake siding materials offer a unique look that is ideal for cape and cottage exteriors. And, if you want authentic wood shakes, then you should think about picking from long-lasting wood varieties like cedar or redwood. This siding does come in shake, shingle, and clapboard options depending on the look that you desire.
Wood siding is one of the longest-lasting materials. However, you should know that the siding must be maintained properly to prevent weathering issues. You will need to paint, stain, or seal the siding on a regular basis. Also, you will need to look for signs of pest infestations to make sure they are addressed before the shakes deteriorate.
If you want to know more about siding and the kinds of material options that are available to you, speak with a professional who offers siding installation services.
Roof problems can go from minor to really scary in no time at all. One day you have a little leak, and the next you're left with major water damage in your attic. But it does not have to be this way. Well-informed homeowners know how to recognize roof leaks, and they know the importance of regular maintenance for roof longevity.
How do you become one of those well-informed homeowners? By visiting our website, of course! Here, we have articles about common roofing problems, hiring a roofer, choosing a good roof, and even DIY repairs. Every home has a roof, and every homeowner should know the basics about roofing.