The outside of your home is your barrier to the elements nature can throw at you, but also it’s what you come home to every day. What family, friends, neighbors and others see too. Siding helps to beautify and protect.
The only problem comes in the numerous options available; you wouldn’t know what to pick unless you have some technical know-how. This article talks about what you need to choose the right type of siding.
Consider Need for Maintenance
While some siding materials require less maintaining after installation, some may demand a lot more. Vinyl material does not require painting and as much care. On the other hand, wood has a traditional beauty that appeals to many but is the most demanding of all siding material.
Whatever you pick, it is important to understand how much your siding will need. It is up to you to maintain your investment. Otherwise, you may need to replace your siding sooner than expected. If you do not want to hassle much or don’t fancy painting now and then, go for vinyl; it only needs periodical cleaning.
Look For Energy Efficiency
Most siding materials have R-values of 1.0, this isn’t significant, however even the little extra can reduce the load on your HVAC, meaning you pay less in electric bills.
When investing in siding, look at the R-values of different siding materials. Higher R-values provide better energy efficiency than lower ones and help to keep comfortable temperatures, whether it is winter or summer. Wood sidings generally have better R-values than brick siding, so if you compare these two on this aspect, the former makes a better pick.
Determine What Impression You Want to Portray
With property design, you rarely get a second chance to fix a first impression; you may spend a fortune if you do. Cladding your property gives the same appeal as your clothes give. It is the first thing people will judge you with. Your guest and passersby will see the exterior and then assume the interior. This reflects your personality, style, and priorities; if you decide to do it, give it your best.
Sidings come in different colors and designs, making it easier for homeowners to choose their best fits. Consider your home’s architectural style and the general environment, including the surrounding neighborhood, if you are looking to solve your home’s aesthetics with siding.
As much as you may choose the best color for your personal tastes, sometimes we don’t like to be the odd one out. You do not want third parties to determine your choices, but you can be the odd one out.
A neighborhood can influence your choice of siding if you reside next to buildings owned by a large real estate developer or homeowner’s association.
If you do not live in such a community, you can be as creative as you want with your house. But, ensure you comply with and get approval from HOA. Otherwise, you risk undoing your investment.
Durability and Value for Your Money
How long will your cladding last before you need to replace it? The anticipated durability of siding is a crucial aspect you have to include in your purchase decision.
The material you choose will help to determine the number of years your siding lasts. But also you must consider maintenance and weather factors that can play a role in degeneration. You might also need to consider non-combustible, rust resistant, as well as moisture and rot-resistant materials.
Vinyl sidings are great when you want durability for a reasonable price. They don’t need much maintenance and can withstand harsh conditions like a storm and hails; most siding won’t give you this characteristic. This factor would otherwise not have so much weight if you want to replace your cladding to change the colors or design every now.
Consider the Resale Value
Expensive siding like bricks, stone, and wood elevates your property value. If you want to sell your home in the near future, these could be the best options. They look nice and can withstand harsh conditions.
If you want to stay for a while before cashing on your house, then we recommend that you go for the durable options.
Durability also plays a significant role when it comes to getting a resale value. No homebuyer wants to invest in a property with a shuttered exterior. And, investing in a new siding when you want to sell your home seems very expensive. When buying siding for your house, consider that you may want to sell it later and pick a material that would last until then.
Short-Term and Long-Term Financial Implications
Long-term and short-term financial implications should be the first thing to cross your mind. In the short term, you would need to consider initial purchase costs, transportation, and installation costs. Siding varies greatly in prices, depending on the material and brand.
You may pick something based on its elegance and texture only to realize it is beyond your financial ability. Similarly, you may pick something because it looks cheap in the shop to find that it is pretty demanding in installation.
From the long-term perspective, you need to consider maintenance needs and durability. If you do not want to set up considerable sums in maintenance, you have to go for the most durable materials regardless of their initial buying price. The same applies to when you do not anticipate replacing your siding in the near future.
Bottom Line
Choosing the correct type of siding is a tricky process. You have to consider all options and look at the best possible solution for your case. Chief among those factors is your budget because it determines what you can afford, which significantly decides your investment future. If you have the right finances, you can decide every other aspect. After reading this piece, we hope that you know, have what it takes to clad your property.
