Investing in siding is a solid investment for your home. It is important to take into account cost of materials, amount of maintenance that is necessary, maintenance costs, and energy efficiency. Understanding the details is part of the decision making process so we want to help make it easier for you.
Four of the most common siding materials our customers find the most satisfaction with in our 25+ years experience in the field are vinyl, fiber cement, insulated siding, and engineered wood.
Vinyl
Vinyl was formed in the early 1960s and is the most used in new, single-family homes. It comes in a variety of colors and requires little maintenance. It is durable, and one of the least expensive option.
Vinyl has the tendency to deform in extreme climates and could fade in the long-term, but newer technology has considerably improved these defects. In fact, vinyl siding can now have the appearance of many different types of architectural accents such as stone, slate, and wood. Maintenance includes pressure washing annually.
Fiber Cement
Fiber cement (also called composite) consists of mixing sand, cement and wood fibers in a stable material that does not expand and contract in the same way as wood and vinyl. Fiber cement siding keeps color longer than wood siding, low maintenance and can be painted. Repainting is recommended approximately every 15 to 20 years.
Another great benefit of fiber cement is that it is considered a ‘green’ product because most of the brands contain from about 10 to 20% recycled material. It is highly water-resistant and impervious to termites.
Insulated
Insulated siding provides energy efficiency due to its ability to counteract the bridge effect in homes. Thermal bridges take place where a poor insulating material connects the interior and exterior of a house, and the use of insulated siding helps build a barrier in preventing heat loss or gain.
Although this type costs more than standard vinyl, it will pay for itself in the long run with lower heating and cooling bills. Insulated siding also reduces the noise coming from outside of your home and lays flatter than conventional siding. Pressure washing is not optimal, but annual washing with water and soap is advised.
Engineered Wood
Engineered wood is a relatively new product that consists of wood waste and binders. Engineered wood has the look of real wood; but is stronger and can be factory painted, which gives it a longer life expectancy. This will have to be painted to retain the integrity every 5 to 10 years. Engineered wood is easy to install and will create less lumber than traditional wood. However, if not well maintained, it is more susceptible to weather-related issues.
Siding Installation Starts Here
Rock Solid Exteriors is an expert in the roofing and siding industry. We will send one of our team members to inspect your current project, educate you on materials, maintenance costs and answer any questions or concerns you may have absolutely free! We have over 25 years of experience and knowledge with siding installation, repair and construction. This that has made us a preferred and trusted choice for homeowners all around Michigan. Just check out our testimonials from our loyal clients!
We go beyond the call of duty to provide 100% satisfaction to our long list of customers that keep coming back for more of our highly reputable services. Contact us today for a free consultation or inspection. Are you having an emergency siding repair crisis? We provide service within 24 hours!
Rock Solid Exteriors proudly provides siding installation services throughout Macomb, Oakland, Wayne, and St. Clair Counties here in Michigan. Reach out to us for a free consultation at 844-75-SOLID.
