Your home is the most significant investment you’ll make in your life. So when it’s time to update the exterior, you want to choose the perfect resources to reflect your unique style. From traditional wood clapboard to modern metal siding, here are the best five exterior siding materials to customize your home.
Wood Clapboard
Wood clapboard is a classic choice that never goes out of style. Wood is a natural material that looks great on traditional homes. The horizontal boards come in different types, from shingles to shakes, and you can stain or paint them.
Wood does require regular upkeep, though, which can add up in maintenance costs over time, especially if you live in a climate with extreme temperatures and high moisture levels.
Vinyl Siding
If you’re on a budget, vinyl siding is one of the most affordable options available. The material can be made to look like wood clapboard or natural shake shingles, and it comes in a wide variety of colors. Vinyl siding has been popular for years because it’s easy to install and very low maintenance.
The downside to vinyl is that you can’t paint it, so you’ll be stuck with the color you choose at installation. It can also fade over time when exposed to direct sunlight.
Fiber Cement
Fiber cement is a durable, fire-resistant material that’s growing in popularity. Aside from being resistant to termites, it’s also resistant to mold and rot. The siding is installed in large panels, making installation quick and easy.
The downside of fiber cement is that the material isn’t as flexible as vinyl or wood, so you have to be extra careful when installing it around things such as windows, doors, and eaves. It can also crack over time.
Stone Veneer
The right stone veneer can make for a beautiful exterior, especially for rustic-themed homes. This material can be made to look like natural stone, brick, or even wood. It’s a very durable option that can last for years with minimal upkeep.
The installation process can be tricky, but the material doesn’t require any painting. This makes stone veneer an excellent alternative for people who like the look of natural stone but don’t want to deal with the maintenance.
Stucco
Stucco is used on many Mediterranean-style homes, so it’s no surprise that it would also make an excellent choice for your exterior siding. The material can be applied to masonry or wood-framed homes, and you have the option of painting it once it’s installed. However, stucco isn’t as durable as stone veneer, so it’s best-suited for homes in climates with mild weather. It can also be susceptible to cracking and chipping over time.
These five exterior siding materials to customize your home are great options to give your abode a total face-lift. They’ll also bump up your property’s market value, helping out your wallet in the long run.
