The siding of a house is like the clothing we wear. Applying exterior siding and trim is a great way to protect your home from the elements as well as to add interest color and texture to the structure. However siding is certainly not the one size fits all. We want something that looks good on day one and for many years to come. This guide to exterior siding choices will help you pick one that goes the distance for your house.
Fiber Cement Siding
It masquerades as wood or masonry, wears like concrete, and survives even the harshest elements. It can look like stucco, wood or masonry but is like concrete lasting up to 25 years. Fiber cement cost is $6.00 to $12.00 per square foot installed. It is flame and insect resistant. The downside. If you have asbestos siding originally you may have a problem removing it before applying Fiber Cement Siding. A moisture related problem can exist with Fiber cement siding.
Stone/Masonry Siding
Generally considered the highest quality choice for home exteriors, brick and stone are also almost maintenance free and will last as long as the house, though some repairs may be needed from time to time. Stone can get expensive $10.00 to $30.00 per square foot installed. An alternative stone veneer come in natural and synthetic material and is available in wide variety of styles.
Wood Siding
The natural beauty, durability, and track record of wood siding makes it a choice worth considering. Under normal conditions and with proper periodic maintenance, quality wood siding will last the life of the building. It can come in clapboard, shakes and shingles with a cost of $5.00 to $10.00 per square foot install. The biggest downside to wood siding is its maintenance, it is susceptible to insect or rodent attacks and will need to be maintained regularly.
PVC/Vinyl Siding
Vinyl siding is made from a PVC plastic. Unlike wood or cedar, it won’t rot or flake. Vinyl is also less expensive to purchase and install than most other siding materials. Unfortunately, even the best vinyl siding can crack, split or look dull after a few years. Vinyl produces hazardous byproducts; it will release toxic chemicals when burned. PVC resin has improved its look dramatically to include a wide variety of colors and textures that closely resemble wood grain.
Brick
Few homes are constructed from brick anymore. Brick veneer houses look almost identical to solid brick structures, except that they are built using a very different technique. The house itself is constructed from steel or wooden framing, and then covered with wood sheathing or insulation. A single layer of brick is built near each exterior wall and attached to the house with metal ties. Veneer brick does not support the structural load of the building; if the brick were removed, the house would continue to stand . The cost is $6.00 to $15.00 or more per square foot installed.
Creativity makes all the difference in remodeling your home! Becraft Plus has experience with every type of siding on the market. Contractor experience makes all the difference.
Contact Us (301-929-3401) For a Free Consultation!
—
About Becraft Plus
Since 1989, Becraft Plus has provided customized design and construction services to customers in the Washington, D.C. area. We specialize in custom home building, additions and remodeling, and whole house renovations with a focus on creating living spaces that are tailored to the needs of our clients.
>> Learn More
