House siding is one of the most important components protecting your home against the elements including the sun’s ultra violet rays, rain, snow, ice heat, cold and any other climatic challenges delivered throughout the seasons.
There are many siding choices for every Madison homeowner to consider, each having its own unique qualities. Below is a quick reference comparison of a variety of siding types available to homeowners. We will highlight the following:
Siding advantages
Siding disadvantages
Relative siding cost
Our goal is to provide a very basic overview of siding choices for those planning siding replacement for aged siding or to upgrade/update existing house siding. This general overview applies to commercial applications as well. Be sure to use a reputable siding contractor to get the best final result.
Aluminum Siding
Advantages – Easy to maintain, durable, will not crack, fireproof, great water barrier, comes in a variety of colors, styles and textures, can be installed over wood siding
Disadvantages – Can dent and fade, noisy
Cost – Low
Vinyl Siding
Advantages – Easy to maintain, durable, will not rot or flake, great water barrier, variety of colors, textures and styles, easily cleaned, can be installed over wood siding
Disadvantages – Can crack, fade or get dingy over time, not environmentally friendly
Cost – Low
Solid Wood
Advantages – Can paint or stain a variety of colors, natural look, fairly easy to repair
Disadvantages – May rot, flake warp or split, expensive, high maintenance
Cost – Moderate-High
Composite Wood
Advantages – Easy and inexpensive to install, low cost alternative to solid wood
Disadvantages – Does not look like real wood but is more natural than vinyl or aluminum
Cost – Moderate
Stucco
Advantages – Easily cleaned, variety of colors, quick Installation
Disadvantages – Not as durable
Cost – High
Stone
Advantages – Durable, natural look
Disadvantages – Expensive, difficult to install, may crack
Cost – High
Fiber Cement
Advantages – Extremely durable, fire and termite proof, can have appearance of wood, stucco or masonry at a lower cost, low maintenance, easy installation
Disadvantages – Heavy product, requires moisture barrier under siding to ensure waterproof qualities
Cost – Moderate / High
Brick
Advantages – Durable, long lifespan, classic look
Disadvantages – Expensive
Cost – High
Seamless Steel
Advantages – Very strong, resist shrinking and bulging when temperatures change, low maintenance
Disadvantages – Difficult to repair, can dent and rust
Cost – Moderate
For remodeling the interior of your home contact Sims Remodeling – 608-825-4500