With so many different types of home siding available, it can be hard to choose one. That’s where Friel Lumber comes in. We can help you consider the style, durability, cost, and maintenance to ensure you select the best option. But ultimately, the final decision is up to you. To help narrow down your needs, let’s start by exploring each type.
Vinyl Siding
Vinyl siding accounts for the majority of all exterior wall materials on homes. Image Source: Alenco
If you’re looking for standard home siding, then vinyl is for you. Vinyl is the most popular type of siding for American homes. And, there are plenty of reasons why it’s so common, including the following:
- It’s one of the least expensive siding options
- It’s low maintenance and easy to keep clean
- Vinyl is highly durable against rot and insect damage
Once installed correctly, you can rely on vinyl siding to last for many years. As an added bonus, it comes in a wide range of colors and textures. We find that many homeowners in Maryland are drawn to neutral colors, such as gray and beige. Soft blues are also common to see. This variety makes it easy to showcase your personal aesthetic and coordinate with the rest of the home’s exterior.
But, are there any drawbacks? Well, for one, there’s less individuality with this type of siding. If unique curb appeal is important to you, you may want to choose a different option. And, in the event that your vinyl siding becomes damaged, entire panels will have to be replaced. However, vinyl siding is extremely high quality and performs better today than it did in the past.
Wood Siding
Cedar siding takes very little processing and treatment, and it’s also a great insulator. Image Source: SidingCost
Love the timeless beauty of wood? Wood siding can be customized with the paint or stain of your choice. Not to mention, it often makes a big impact when used as a feature element on the front of a house. And, while there are several different types of wood siding, we recommend cedar. It’s our top choice because it’s…
- The most eco-friendly wood option
- Bug resistant
- Rot resistant
- Fungi and mildew resistant
Some wood siding gets a bad rap for being high maintenance. Cedar, however, is relatively easy to take care of. In fact, you only have to clean it twice a year. And, it should also be inspected regularly for termites and moisture.
Fiber Cement
Fiber cement can be molded into just about anything, from wood and shingles to stucco and bricks.
You also can’t go wrong with fiber cement home siding. Not only does it offer beauty and curb appeal, but it’s also extremely durable. Some styles even feature traditional woodgrain design. So, you can save money without having to pay extra for real wood. Other notable benefits include:
- Stability and durability
- Low maintenance
- Fire resistance
- Termite proof
This siding is made from a mixture of cement, clay, sand and wood pulp. This makes it highly resistant to temperature, as well. So, you won’t have to worry about humidity levels warping the panels. Some disadvantages include higher costs and difficult installation. If you do choose fiber cement, make sure you can trust your contractor to install it correctly.
Find What You’re Looking For
Whether you choose vinyl, wood, or fiber cement siding, there is no bad option. At Friel Lumber, we help Maryland homeowners and contractors find the best siding. And, we carry highly-quality products from national brands. So, whatever you select, you can feel confident in your choice. To learn more about home siding options or any of our other services, contact us today.
