Like your other investments, your home also needs a little updating every once in a while. For home exteriors, a renovation is advised every 20 or 30 years. Hence, when you renovate your home, you have to make sure that the changes can withstand another 20 or 30 years.
One of the most important home improvements that any homeowner can do is change or update their home’s siding. And when you do, you must ensure that you can get the most for your money by building with high-quality materials.
What is siding?
The siding to your home plays an important purpose in protecting your home. It is responsible for shielding your home away from the harsh elements of the weather, such as rain, snow, and wind. During the winter season, a well-installed siding can protect the interior of your home from the cold weather outside. The same thing applies during the summer when the heat gets too much.
In addition, the siding can also protect your home from moisture build-up. A proper James Hardie siding installation can keep any water and debris from entering the walls and insulation of your home, which will further reduce any moisture build-up.
Apart from the two functional purposes of siding, it can also be used for aesthetic purposes. Since the siding takes up a large portion of your home’s exterior surface, an eye-pleasing siding adds an extra layer of appeal and value to your home.
What happens when your home siding is damaged?
Like any other part of your home, a damaged siding can be a huge concern for homeowners. If your siding is failing, water is more than likely going to find a way into your home’s frame. And if the water gets trapped in the structures of your home, moisture will surely follow.
Moisture is among the biggest concerns many homeowners often face, especially if the moisture is trapped in the insulation or walls. When this happens, the built-up moisture can cause structural damage to your home by warping or bowing any of its foundations. Moreover, moisture can also cause the wood to rot, grow molds, and other interior damages.
Types of siding
Selecting the perfect siding for your home can take some time. So to help you narrow down your choices, here are some of the most common home siding options.
- Vinyl siding
With vinyl siding, you can choose from various styles, textures, and colors. Your options include vertical and horizontal panels and wood shake or shingle styles. Vinyl siding is one of the most commonly used sidings for home exteriors due to its durability (it can last up to 50 years) and low maintenance. James Hardie vinyl siding is among the most popular brand of siding in America due to its premium quality.
- Wood siding
Wood siding is also a good option since it offers a wide variety of styles, finishes, and textures without requiring an exterior finish. And although it is made of food, wood siding is not as expensive as people might assume. The average price of this type of siding is anywhere from $3 to $14 per square foot installed. The only downside of wood siding is that it can be prone to problems from moisture if your home is not properly ventilated.
- Metal siding
Like the first two options, metal siding also comes in a wide range of styles – panels, vertical strips, and shingles. You can find aluminum siding for about $3 to $6 per square foot. On the other hand, uncoated steel siding is sold at $4 to $8 per square foot. Metal siding is also known for being low maintenance. However, without proper care, they might be prone to denting.
The experts for home exterior needs
If you are from Richmond, VA, and need a professional to help you with your home exterior needs, Exterior Home Solutions might be the perfect shop for you. With 13 years of experience, we can guarantee quality home improvement services with durability and expert craftsmanship.
To know more about us and what we do, you can visit our website at Exterior Home Solutions.