As the weather grows milder, many homeowners start to notice the damage on their houses’ exterior that the snow and ice hid during winter. You might have realized it’s time to add “replacing your siding” to your spring project list—where do you start when considering new siding options?
There are plenty of reasons why siding needs to be replaced, from physical damage, like mold, mildew, and rot, to increasing energy bills resulting from poor insulation. Once you’ve identified the damage, it’s time to choose a siding option that fits best with your home’s style and aesthetic.
Pros and Cons of Vinyl Siding
Driving around the Midwest, vinyl siding is an extremely common sight. It’s relatively inexpensive and low maintenance, making it a popular choice. The slick material of vinyl siding doesn’t allow dust, cobwebs, and debris to stay for long; cleaning is easily done with a garden hose, and there is relatively little need for other maintenance. Additionally, vinyl siding comes in a stunning variety of options, ensuring you’ll be able to find a color and texture that fits the current style of your home’s exterior.
While many DIY enthusiasts are attracted to vinyl siding for its ease of installation, it is easy to do incorrectly if not careful. You should rely on a professional to install your vinyl siding to lessen the possibility of having issues later on.
While it looks fantastic, vinyl siding can unfortunately lessen the value of your home, as it’s one of the more affordable choices on the market. For those looking for environmentally friendly siding options, vinyl may not be the best option, as the material used in the production of vinyl siding can negatively impact the environment. However, manufactures are required to follow strict guidelines during production to lessen their carbon footprint.
Pros and Cons of Wood Siding
Wood siding is extremely durable and can last for a few decades. As trees are a renewable resource, wood siding is a more environmentally friendly siding option. You can also paint or finish your wood siding in various ways to match your home’s aesthetic, and there are a variety of wood siding styles for your home. If you’re looking to increase your property value, investing in wood siding is a great way to do so.
However, wood siding isn’t without drawbacks, and if you choose to install it, be prepared the handle the frequent maintenance that comes with it. Depending on the climate and location of your home, you can expect to paint or stain your home once every ten years to lessen the chances of your siding rotting and becoming bug-infested.
While vinyl and wood are not the only siding options, they both offer attractive benefits for homeowners. Other popular options include stucco and metal, but the best choice for your home is up to your budget, preferred aesthetic, and desired level of maintenance. If you’re considering replacing your home’s siding this spring, contact Minnesota Home Improvement to receive a free quote.
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