The siding of your home in Frederick, MD plays an essential role in protecting it from external elements. More importantly, it is also the most visible feature of your home when viewed from across the street.

When choosing home siding, there are several things you need to take into account:

1. The material used in its construction
2. What it will cost you
3. Properties of the siding

Material

The following steps will help you select different types of home sidings based on the material that will best meet your needs:

Steel

Steel does not have the look of wood covering. Still, this siding is a terrific long-lasting option. Steel is also eco-friendly, making it the right choice if you are interested in reducing your family’s carbon footprint. Steel siding looks shiny and attractive, and the shine will not fade for a long time.

Cement Fiber

Cement fiber is the most resistant and durable of siding choices. It provides fire-proof protection for your home. Moreover, it is also immune to mold, insects, fungus, mildew and other elements. It is impact-resistant too, so your home is more likely to survive the flying debris common during storms. Most important of all, though, is the fact that it maintains the same brilliant look as its wood siding counterparts. Cement fiber siding won’t age or fade.

Cedar

If you have been dreaming of a simple and natural look for your home, cedar is the best option. This beautiful, fabulous siding looks stunning in older homes. Cedar is insect and rust resistant.

Vinyl

Vinyl is the traditional alternative to wood siding. This popular siding type comes in a wide range of looks. But the thing that makes vinyl the most popular choice for homeowners is how affordable it is.

Hardboard

Hardboard siding is a practical choice. It is a combination of wood and other materials and sports the look of cedar. Unlike the natural wood it mimics, hardboard siding is resistant to rodents, insects, fungus, mold, and other unwanted agents of wood destruction.

Brick

Brick is a remarkably durable material made from clay. Most modern brick siding is only a brick veneer installed over the home’s wood-frame structure. Still, it is one of the hardest wearing materials today. It is also quite popular in the market.

Cost of Home Siding of Your Choice

The type of home siding you have is one important decision you will have to make as a homeowner. The fact that you’ll be living with your siding of choice for the next 20 years or more makes it a decision you shouldn’t take lightly!

It doesn’t need to be an expensive investment, though. Cost depends on the material you use and the labor fees of the installation company you pick.

Siding is important from both a functional and an architectural point of view. Here are some of the factors that may impact your siding selection:

• How much money you are willing to spend on siding installation.
• The amount of time and money you will spend on home maintenance.
• Your budget for heating and cooling.
• The level of comfort you’re seeking for your living spaces.
• Your home’s aesthetic now and in the future.
• Your home’s selling price.

Siding Properties

Besides the cost, when choosing home siding (also known as cladding), there are six fundamental factors for you to consider:

Water Resistance

Water-resistant types of siding will have long-lasting life, which is a necessity in areas that see much rain.

Ease of Installation

If you will be installing the siding on your own, make sure you will not need any special tools. Also, make sure the dust released during cutting or drilling won’t be harmful when inhaled.

Energy Efficiency

Take a look at the R-value rating for energy savings. Then, find out what you’ll need to add beneath the siding for appropriate insulation.

Aesthetics

Your siding will be in complete view of anyone who enters, leaves or drives by your place. So make sure it’s appealing.

Versatility

Be sure the siding has the versatility to meet the essential needs of your particular project. If there are details of your home's exterior that will make one specific type of siding more expensive or difficult to install than others, make sure you understand what the added costs or necessary adjustments are.

Durability

Does your siding of choice have the power to withstand temperature shifts? Will it stand up to everyday usage? Find out those details ahead of time!

If you require the best siding for your home, contact DC Generals’ experts today!