Have you been staring at your house lately, thinking it could use a fresh new look? One of the best ways to give your home a makeover is by updating its siding, as it does cover your entire property. But here’s the thing, with so many siding materials out there, how do you choose the right one for your modern home?
That’s where our experience can offer you help. At Prestige Roofing, we have a team of siding experts that have installed different types of siding, improving homes across the state of Wisconsin.
Should you go with the classic wood look? Or maybe install a more cutting-edge material, like fiber-cement? What about vinyl? Is that still a thing for modern homes? Today we take a look at all of them and more!
#1 Vinyl Siding
Vinyl siding tops our list since it’s one of the most popular materials in the siding industry. It’s made from polyvinyl chloride, which offers excellent durability and resistance to the elements, and it’s the go-to choice for a ton of homeowners, for good reason. This material offers you a lot of benefits, including affordability, low-maintenance, and incredible versatility.
Homeowners love this siding because it comes in a variety of colors and styles, allowing them to customize their home’s appearance to match style preferences. The material is also able to mimic the look of more premium options without the high cost.
Pros:
- The cost of vinyl siding is lower than the other options we will discuss in this blog post.
- Vinyl siding does not need regular painting or staining making it one of the most low-maintenance options on the market.
- It’s a versatile siding that can imitate the look of expensive materials such as slate or wood.
Cons:
- Can crack or fade over time
- Limited insulation properties
Top Brands Of Vinyl Siding
- CertainTeed
- Ply Gem
Fiber-Cement Siding
Fiber-cement siding is a durable and versatile option that combines cement, sand, and cellulose fibers to create a sturdy siding material. Since it’s made from cement, it can easily withstand harsh weather conditions common in Wisconsin, such as hailstorms.
This material can also be designed to resemble wood, stucco, or masonry, providing homeowners with a range of aesthetic options. One of its best features is its longevity, often lasting for more than 30 years with minimal maintenance. However, it’s not as easy to handle as vinyl and you will need the help of a professional contractor for the installation.
Pros:
- Highly durable and weather-resistant, lasting for more than 30 years
- Fire and pest-resistant
- Available in various styles and textures
- Low maintenance
Cons:
- Heavier and more expensive than other traditional siding materials
- Requires professional installation
Popular Brands:
- James Hardie
- Allura USA
- NICHIHA
#3 Wood Siding
Wood siding has been a classic choice for centuries and has a place in the majority of traditional properties. It offers a natural and timeless appeal, and comes available in various styles, such as shingles, shakes, and boards, providing a warm and inviting look to any home.
Wood siding’s natural beauty can be enhanced with different finishes and stains, too, giving you an option to customize it and match the look of your home. However, It requires regular maintenance such as staining and cleaning to protect against moisture, pests, and rot. This is why, for modern homes, engineered wood siding has become much more popular compared to natural wood.
Pros:
- Natural and classic appearance
- Good insulation properties
Cons:
- Requires regular maintenance and treatment
- Susceptible to moisture and pest damage
- More expensive than some other options
Popular Brands
- WoodPlank
Metal Siding
Want a reliable siding material that can further elevate the look and durability of your modern property? Metal siding is the perfect choice. Though there are several metals available, this type of siding is typically made from aluminum or steel, creating a sleek and modern option for homeowners seeking a contemporary look. Known for its durability and low maintenance, metal siding offers excellent protection against the elements and is resistant to fire, rot, and pests.
The material can also be manufactured to mimic the appearance of wood or other textures, providing versatility in design. Metal siding is also environmentally friendly, as it is often made from recycled materials and can be recycled at the end of its life cycle.
Pros:
- Durable and long-lasting
- Low maintenance
- Fire and pest-resistant
- Environmentally friendly
- Available in various styles and textures
Cons:
- Can be prone to dents and scratches
- May require insulation for temperature regulation
- Higher upfront cost
Popular Brands:
- McElroy Metal
Brick Siding
Brick siding is a timeless and durable choice that offers a classic, elegant appearance. Made from fired clay, brick siding is known for its strength, fire resistance, and low maintenance requirements. This material provides excellent insulation and can help regulate temperatures within the home. Brick siding is available in various colors and textures, allowing homeowners to customize their exterior appearance. Although brick siding can be more expensive upfront, its longevity and durability often make it a worthwhile investment.
Pros:
- Highly durable and long-lasting
- Fire and pest-resistant
- Low maintenance
- Excellent insulation properties
Cons:
- Higher initial cost
- Limited design options compared to other materials
- Can be difficult to install
Popular Brands:
- Glen-Gery
Siding Alternatives To Look For In 2024
Though we have covered major siding materials, several innovative alternatives have emerged in recent years. These newer options offer unique benefits and aesthetic appeal, making them worth your time and money.
Let’s explore some of these exciting alternatives:
Insulated Vinyl Siding
Insulated vinyl panels are an evolution of traditional vinyl siding, designed to enhance energy efficiency and durability. These panels incorporate a foam insulation layer, providing superior thermal performance and reducing energy costs.
Talking about the color options, you will get the same exhaustive range that is available with regular vinyl siding material. However, due to the insulation and thickness, the cost is higher.
Faux Stone Siding
Faux stone siding offers the luxurious appearance of natural stone without the hefty price tag or complicated installation. Made from lightweight materials like polyurethane, faux stone panels are designed to replicate the texture and look of real stone. This option is ideal for homeowners who want to add a touch of elegance to their home’s exterior without the high cost and labor-intensive process of using real stone.
Brick Veneer Siding
Brick siding looks quite beautiful, but it can also cost a lot. However, if you have your heart set on brick, there’s a strong alternative: brick veneer siding. This siding provides the classic look of brick without the weight and expense of full brick construction. This siding is made from thin layers of brick that are adhered to the exterior surface, offering the same visual appeal as traditional brickwork. Since it’s also lighter and easier to install than traditional brick, it’s a cost-effective option for homeowners who desire this appearance.
Composite Siding
Another alternative that you can consider is composite siding material. This is a versatile and environmentally friendly alternative made from a blend of recycled wood fibers, plastics, and resins. This material combines the best features of different materials, offering strength, durability, and resistance to weather and pests. Composite siding is available in various styles and colors, allowing homeowners to create the desired look for their homes. It requires minimal maintenance and is designed to withstand the elements, making it an attractive option.
Premier Siding Installation Company In Wisconsin
We hope that with our list and descriptions of the top siding materials, you can now choose the right material for your replacement project. However, that’s not all. To ensure that you get the best results from your siding, it’s important to hire professional siding installers like the team at Prestige Roofing. Contact us today at (920) 791-0414 to learn more about what we can do for you.