Buying new siding for your home is a choice with lasting implications, affecting both the look and quality of your home. The choice you make will be there for many years to come. Over time you will find yourself consistently admiring it or regretting it. To help you make this choice, here is a quick start guide to help you on your way.
Know When Siding Needs To Be Replaced.
The first step to choosing new siding is to determine whether the siding in fact needs to be replaced. Also whether you can simply replace just a small portion or if the entire house needs to be resided.
Warping and Rotting
If the siding is warped and you can feel rotting underneath, begin the process of choosing new siding.
Peeling or Sagging
If you notice that your interior paint or wallpaper is starting to peel or sag, this could be a sign that your siding is letting moisture into your home. Have it looked into immediately as this could cause serious problems down the road.
Mold or Mildew
If you see mold or mildew beginning to form on your siding, it is likely that some of it is starting to penetrate your home. Though not always a problem, it is a warning sign and should be looked into. Also it is good practice to regularly clean your siding so that mold and mildew aren’t allowed to grow on it.
Color
When choosing a new siding, it is important to consider color. Though it is primarily for visual enjoyment, there are a number of functional uses you should keep in mind.
What are the commonly used colors in your neighborhood?
While a bold yellow might look good in a picture, it could clash with the other houses on your street if they are all grayish or earth tone colors. You might want to check with your local homeowners association as well.
If you live in a hotter climate, remember that lighter colors reflect heat better.
This will save you money and keep you cooler in the summer time.
Note the color of your trim and other exterior décor.
If you aren’t planning on repainting your trim, deck, or lawn decorations, make sure your new siding matches them.
How easily can you change the color of the siding?
Remember that your color options with be limited by the type of siding you choose. Wood siding needs to be painted regularly. This gives you the option of changing the color if you so desire. Alternatively, vinyl siding can be very difficult to repaint in an attractive manner. Fiber cement siding is often chosen because it doesn’t need to be painted as often as wood does.
Siding Material
The most significant decision of course is what type of siding to install. There are a variety of options. The best choice for you will depend on your budget, visual standards, and how much energy you are willing to put into maintenance. Here are some important points to consider:
What is the predominate type of siding in your neighborhood?
This will affect how good your home looks compared to the neighbors and will affect its resale value.
What type of siding is ideal for your climate?
Some types of siding are more susceptible to heat, humidity, salty air, and insect damage. If any of these are factors where you live then you may want to choose your siding accordingly. You might also want to get insulated siding for increased energy efficiency. Ask a good contractor like Lakeside Renovation & Design for more information.
Is the siding worth the required maintenance?
Though attractive, wood siding requires more maintenance than fiber cement siding. Vinyl siding requires less maintenance but is more susceptible to damage than a good fiber cement siding.
What is your budget?
The lower cost of certain types of siding can make them an attractive option. But remember that the higher cost of a good siding will likely be worth it because of the effect it has on your resale value.
For most homes, the siding is the largest visible feature. It will be one of the first things your visitors will see. With wise choices and an experienced contractor, you can appreciate your home’s new siding for many years to come. When choosing and buying new siding, you can’t go wrong with the experts at Lakeside Renovation & Design! Contact us today for a quote
