Siding Selection Step 1 – Choosing Your Material

With so many siding options available today, choosing the right material, color and pattern for your home can be an overwhelming decision. Our team of trained professionals is here to help you make an informed decision that best works for your individual project.  

The first step in the siding decision making process is to select a material. We have outlined 3 common siding materials (vinyl, fiber cement, & wood) below along with some of their pros and cons to get you started.

Vinyl Siding

The most cost effective of the bunch, vinyl siding was introduced in the 1950’s as an alternative to aluminum siding. If you’re looking for something that is low maintenance with uncompromising performance, vinyl siding is a definitely a great option.

As more and more patterns become available (i.e. board and batten, fish scales, and shake) vinyl siding becomes a more desirable option in the appearance category as well – and unlike the vinyl siding of the past, today’s options more closely resemble wood.

All of these features, along with its anti-weathering protection and its ability to resist breakdown from UV light, allow vinyl siding to offer the complete package for today’s homeowners.  

Fiber Cement Siding

Coming in at a higher price point, fiber cement siding is becoming a more popular option for homeowners. Fiber cement siding is made of sustainable materials, including cement and wood fiber. These materials are fire and heat resistant, weather resistant, impact resistant and warp and rot resistant. Although it may be a little harder to install than vinyl siding, it’s not that hard for all of the benefits it brings to the table.

Fiber Cement siding boasts the closest resemblance to actual wood siding. So if that’s the look you’re going for, this siding is for you! The best part, fiber cement requires MUCH less maintenance than wood and is available prefinished!

Wood Siding

As one of the oldest siding options out there, wood siding guarantees your project a timeless, classic look that other materials can only strive to achieve. Wood siding is available in a variety of styles, textures and finishes and although it can be damaged by sun exposure, rot, and insects, it is fairly easy to repair.

Two of the most popular wood siding options today are lap siding and cedar shake. The beauty of wood does come with a higher price tag than its competitors, vinyl and fiber cement, but some would agree that it is well worth it!

To find out more about our siding options go to https://www.geneseelumber.com/siding or give us a call at 585-343-0777.