When considering what types of siding you want for your home, there are six main types to choose from. Depending on your budget, climate, home style and commitment to annual maintenance, your contractor can help you choose the style that best suits your home.
The three most profitable types of siding
Vinyl siding is the most popular siding option in the United States due to its versatility, easy maintenance, and low cost. What was once considered a cheap, plastic-looking alternative has been upgraded to a much higher-quality product that looks great, comes in 300 colors, and is durable. It’s so easy to install that some DIYers install it themselves. But, remember that if you decide to install the siding yourself, poor workmanship and cheap materials show. Vinyl costs between $2 and $7 per square foot installed.
Wood siding comes in several varieties, such as clapboard (overlapping planks), batten, or individual. It usually costs between $5 and $10 per square foot, plus the cost of finishing it. This coating can last from 10 to 100 years, if it is periodically cleaned, sealed, painted or stained to protect it from the weather. It is particularly popular on exteriors of bungalows, Cape Cod, and cottages. It offers a rich appearance and is long-lasting if maintained. For areas where fire is a hazard, it can be coated with fire retardant chemicals. One drawback is that it is prone to attracting insects.
Stucco siding is made from construction sand, Portland cement, lime and water on a suitable base of waterproof barrier paper and galvanized metal mesh. It can last a lifetime if installed and cared for correctly. It is typically found on homes with Mediterranean, ranch, or Spanish mission exteriors, but is occasionally applied to homes that also have brick or stone surfaces to add variation or interest to the exterior. Installation costs can range from $7.50 to $10 per square foot.
The most expensive siding options
Fiber cement siding replicates the look of wood, stucco, or masonry for $6-$12 per square foot plus trim. Available in many textures and styles, the product is termite resistant, non-flammable, requires little maintenance and can last 25-30 years. While very popular, it can have moisture problems if not installed on top of a proper moisture barrier. Fiber cement siding installed on homes before the late 1980s may contain asbestos; this requires special abatement equipment to remove the asbestos before it is safe.
Brick or brick veneer cladding is popular in the exteriors of Colonial, Tutor, and English country houses and is considered a classic material. Although it costs $5 to $15 or more per square foot installed, it will last the life of your home, as long as it is properly installed and maintained. It is necessary to add a waterproof membrane under the brick to prevent water from infiltrating and damaging the underlying structure. Installing real brick is labor intensive. However, many modern brick homes are actually brick siding, which is a thin, brick-like facade over a home’s wooden frame. Ultimately, brick veneer will be cheaper than true brick.
Stone or stone veneer siding creates a beautiful exterior finish that can last the life of the home. Using stones like limestone or granite adds texture to a home, but it also adds weight. Stone cladding weighs less and is a better choice, especially when adding to an existing home. Either product needs an annual hose down. The most expensive of all siding, it costs $10 to $30 per square foot to install.
When deciding on possible types of siding for your home, you need to determine which features are most important to you.
