Your home’s siding should enhance your curb appeal and provide protection from the elements. When it’s time to replace it, you should choose a material that suits your needs and your preferences. Below are some factors to consider to help you choose a material for your contractor to install.

What to Consider When Choosing Siding

1. Maintenance Requirements

If you have a busy schedule with work and family, you’ll be best served by a low-maintenance option, so you aren’t constantly caring for it. Vinyl is a solid choice, as it can be rinsed and brushed off to remove grime once a year or as needed.

Aluminum is also low maintenance, only needing to be cleaned off with water and mild soap once or twice a year, but it may need to be repainted every several years due to scratches and chips.

Treated wood can be cleaned similarly a few times a year, during which you should check for signs of wear or damage; it also may need to be retreated every few years.

2. Durability

Vinyl is one of the most durable options. With proper care, it can last 60 years or more, and since the color goes all the way through the material, dings and scratches won’t show. It may be affected by storm damage, though, as high wind can loosen it and heavy, flying debris can puncture or crack it.

Aluminum will last for 50 years on average, and it’s resistant to corrosion and fire. It may scratch or dent but isn’t likely to suffer compromising damage.

Treated wood can last for roughly 40 years, and the treatments make it resistant to moisture damage, like swelling, rotting, or molding. As long as it’s maintained and retreated as needed, it’s a sturdy option.

3. Appearance

Vinyl is the most customizable option, with different colors, finishes, and styles available to complement your home. It can boost curb appeal and complement modern, quaint home aesthetics, but it may not appeal to all buyers.

Wood is also variable in colors and styles, and it’s often used in homes with a rustic, nature-based, or country feel. When done well, it’ll make a statement and draw buyers in.

Aluminum can be painted in any color, custom or standard, and works well with suburban, modern homes. If the paint gets chipped or scraped, though, the metal underneath will show, which will need repainting to maintain an attractive aesthetic.

Once you’ve chosen your siding, contact the home exterior and storm damage contractor at Link’s Contracting. Serving Wisconsin Rapids, WI, they have over 25 years’ experience, and all work is guaranteed. Their siding options include aluminum, vinyl, and treated wood to make your home beautiful. Learn more about their services online and call (715) 424-5465 for a free estimate.