Guest Author - Donna Coogan

Choosing exterior siding is a major home improvement decision. Siding is the outer shell of your home and thereby is meant to protect it as well as provide an aesthetic value. When you consider siding you need to think about five things: cost, color, style, durability and maintenance.

It’s important to do your homework, because siding is not something you want to replace until it’s absolutely necessary. Most siding will last anywhere from 20 to 50 years or more, so realize that you are in it for the long haul once your decision is made.

The siding is typically the most expensive part of your home’s exterior because it covers the most square footage. Be sure to shop around for the best price that also meets the needs of color, style, durability and maintenance.

Since siding covers the most square footage, the color you choose will have a big impact on your home’s appearance. Whether you choose vinyl, wood, brick or stone the color options are huge.

Today’s manufacturers offer vinyl siding in dozens of colors, but nowhere near as many options as painted wood siding. Wood siding can also be stained. Brick and stone can vary in their natural intensities from light to dark. They are available in various shades of tan, brown, beige, pink, peach, gray and more. Brick can also be painted over if that is a suitable option. And, of course, exterior paint comes in hundreds of available colors or can be mixed to your own specific hue.

How do you pick the style siding that is right for your home? A home is most attractive when its siding complements the home’s architecture. A federal colonial style will look attractive in brick, wood or vinyl siding. Some homes look better in a mix of styles. For example, a mix of stone and wood is ideal for a Craftsman or Victorian style home. Stucco is a popular style of Spanish or Tudor style homes.

Siding material is more advanced today than ever before. Stone or brick is available in imitation veneers that can cut costs dramatically. There are also different types of wood siding. Redwood and cedar can be installed board by board and will last half a century, but can be very costly. Or opt for plywood sheets that are less expensive initially, but that will require more maintenance in repainting or staining. This adds up in labor and costs over the years.

Vinyl and aluminum siding have their own pros and cons. Both are designed to mimic wood and are also available in smooth textures. Today vinyl also mimics fancy millwork such as gingerbread trim. This siding is bug and rot resistant compared to some wood siding, but wood offers higher insulating values, and as discussed earlier, more color options. When it comes down to it - some people just prefer the real thing, even if vinyl is cheaper and in some respects easier to maintain.

Stucco is a very involved process that takes several coats and is best done by highly qualified professionals. You can also get synthetic stucco that will last as long as traditional materials but may not be as costly to install.

Most homeowners find it preferable to have siding that is low-maintenance and that will last for decades. Brick, stone and stucco are the first choices if you want materials that are fire resistant and that will basically last forever. Their main maintenance requires checking for cracks in the mortar. Obviously, the longer siding lasts, the less frequently it will need replacing and the more you will save in your home improvement costs.

Vinyl siding is most commonly used in new construction today. It will last 40 or 50 years and individual pieces can easily be replaced. All it needs is a good power washing as part of your annual home maintenance.

Other things to consider when choosing your home’s siding is its resistance to rot, mildew, insects, fire, harsh weather and ability to insulate your home. Be sure you understand completely how to care for the material you are considering. Also look into the warranty offered with your siding choice.

Choosing siding involves many factors. Drive around and look at homes similar to yours. What kind of siding do they have? Do you like it? Look in magazines and talk to professionals. Visit home improvement centers and physically touch your siding options.

Match your siding choice to the best cost, color, style, durability and maintenance that works for you. If you research your options thoroughly, you will make a successful home improvement decision. Once your siding is up, relax and enjoy your home’s new appearance.