Siding is one of the most important features of a home since it not only protects the house but can also significantly increase curb appeal which in turn may also increase its value.
There are a number of types of siding including vinyl, wood, and cement, with vinyl siding being a popular choice overall, and most commonly recommended for coastal homes.
Why Vinyl Is the Best Choice for Coastal Living
Made with polyvinyl chloride, vinyl siding keeps moisture out and easily sheds rain, protecting your home from water damage. When properly installed, vinyl siding creates a moisture barrier which makes it essentially waterproof, making it an excellent choice for coastal homes.When Do I Know It’s Time to Install New Siding?
A good rule of thumb for coastal homeowners is to always keep a close eye on your vinyl siding for wear and tear. As moisture is in the air, it can eventually wear down the vinyl – resulting in a diminished look. Although tough and long-lasting in general, vinyl siding can become brittle with time, making your home more susceptible to damage caused by flying objects in a hurricane. Poorly installed or damaged siding can be devastating as it can lead to mold, high energy costs, deterioration of walls, and problems with structural integrity. The truth is, replacing vinyl siding when it starts to show signs of wear and tear is one of the most important home maintenance projects a coastal homeowner can take on. Let’s take a look at some of the signs that it’s time to repair or replace your siding:- Cracked or loose panels
- Warped panels
- Visible mold
- Holes in the panels
- Siding “bubbles”
- The need to repaint several times within a short period
- Signs of moisture inside the home
- Increased energy bills
All the Colors and Styles
Choosing the style and color of your vinyl siding comes with a huge number of options. Vinyl siding is enormously popular in that it allows the homeowner to choose from an extensive variety of styles and colors, including siding that resembles wood-grain lap siding and shingles, and even stone. (Bonus: with vinyl siding, the color itself is part of the material so dings and scratches won’t ruin the look.) The right siding can display a homeowner’s personal style and is a great way to emphasize the best features of a facade. Most designers agree that, especially in the case of coastal homes, the color should be cohesive with the natural surroundings, which explains why so many coastal homes have blue siding! With that being said, there’s an extensive range of colors to choose from that can deliver a ‘wow factor’ in a seaside environment. And don’t forget the trim! Be sure to consider what colors best accent the shade you’ve selected for your siding. Some designers even recommend choosing two or three different exterior colors to make your home ‘pop.’ Popular coastal colors include:- White
- Pale blue
- Gray
- Turquoise
- Sage green
- Coral
- Golden yellow
- Navy blue