Siding protects houses from harsh weather conditions such as the sun, rain, and hurricanes, helps keep the home’s structural integrity intact, and also contributes to the overall appearance of the home. New siding can give a house an entirely different look than it had before.
When homeowners choose a siding material, they should consider both the functional and aesthetic features of the available options. To help you compare the pros and cons of the available choices, four different siding options are detailed below.
- Stucco
Pros: Stucco is a cement-type mixture made of Portland cement, lime, sand, and water. It’s a popular choice in the southwest and is used on 23% of homes in the United States. Stucco is durable and versatile design-wise and it’s available in virtually every color. It can withstand harsh weather and it’s cheaper than brick and wood siding.
Cons: With that, price-wise it is in the middle of the pack; it’s more expensive than vinyl, aluminum, and fiber cement. It also can be prone to cracking because it expands in the heat and contracts in the cold.
- Vinyl
Pros: Vinyl is made of plastic. It’s cost-effective, common, and gets the job done. For these reasons, one out of every three homes in the United States has vinyl siding. Homeowners choose vinyl siding because it’s durable, low-maintenance, and can reduce HVAC costs. It’s cheaper than any other siding option.
Cons: Vinyl siding is not available in a large range of colors. It can be difficult to repair and it also can hold moisture under its sections if not installed properly.
- Aluminum
Pros: Aluminum siding is made from aluminum coil stock as well as chemical additives that make the metal more durable. It’s completely fireproof, and is also available in any color because it works very well with paint. It’s resistant to rust and can last up to 40 years.
Cons: While it can last up to 40 years, it may need to be repainted every 5-10 years. Therefore, it can be high-maintenance. It’s more susceptible to dents and scratches than other materials are, and can also create loud noises when it’s hit by rain.
- Fiber Cement
Pros: Fiber Cement is made from Portland cement, sand, water, and cellulose fibers. Fiber cement can handle high winds better than any other siding and is recommended for anyone living in an area with a high volume of hurricanes or tornadoes. It’s also one of the most durable sidings and can last for up to 75 years. Lastly, like aluminum, it is fire-resistant.
Cons: It isn’t your cheapest option, and also provides less insulation making it less energy-efficient. Cement fiber can be tricky to install and absorbs moisture.
Get Your Siding At Big D Building Center
Here at Big D Building Center, we understand siding. We’ve helped homeowners install siding for over 100 years.
If you’re in the market for new siding, contact us today and we can help you find the best available option for your home. Or, you can visit our showroom and chat with our team. We’d be happy to talk and see what we can do for you.
Note: Big D Building Center also handles installation.