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What is The Best Maintenance Free Siding?

Siding material protects the exterior of your home against natural elements by keeping it well insulated. As long as you have the right siding material, you can minimize the amount of money and time invested in property maintenance as they can last for a very long time. Siding also enhances the aesthetic beauty of your home’s exterior as it adds both color and definition to your house. Some of the essential factors to consider when determining the best siding material for your home include cost, performance, maintenance, and versatility. This article looks at popular types of siding material that offer the best maintenance and value for your money.

  • Vinyl Siding

The low cost of purchase and minimal maintenance makes vinyl one of the popular siding materials. It does not require painting and is highly durable because it will not warp or twist despite being exposed to different natural elements. Some vinyl products can be crafted to look like wood or stone from a distance and offer a wide variety of patterns to choose from. There has been a dramatic change in the technology used to produce vinyl siding as manufacturers compete to offer the best product in the market. Vinyl has become a popular siding material because it offers a variety of colors and styles to suit individual preferences.

  • Fiber Cement Siding

Fiber cement siding is another low-maintenance siding product that offers the durability of cement. It is made up of sand, cement and wood fibers to prevent the siding from cracking. Fiber-cement siding is resistant to impact, and wood-boring insects. It is impervious to deterioration and does not rot easily like natural wood. Other manufacturers offer fiber-cement siding products with factory paint that can last 15 years or longer. Lighter colors tend to hold better to sunlight but the longevity of each painting job will depend on the painter and the quality of the paint.

  • Stone Siding

Although the initial cost of purchasing stone siding material is expensive, there is nothing more intriguing than its natural beauty and high durability. Granite and limestone are some of the common types of stone siding that add visual interest and texture to the exterior of a home. You can opt for a stone-veneer siding which is less expensive than natural stone and more lightweight. Regular inspection and annual cleaning with a hose can make this type of siding to last the life of the house.

  • Aluminum Siding

Aluminum siding is a popular option for homeowners who reside in the coastal area or areas that experience constant rainfall because of its high resistance to rust. Its affordability and low maintenance make aluminum siding a practical option for most homes. However, it can be prone to dings and dents and may lose its original luster over time. The good thing about aluminum siding is that you can always add a fresh coat of paint when necessary to create a long-lasting appeal.

  • Brick Siding

The durability and natural beauty of brick make it a popular siding choice as it blends well with many house styles. Maintaining brick siding involves washing it occasionally with a hose and replacing mortar occasionally where it deteriorates. The weight of the brick may require additional support in the foundation to withstand movement caused by earthquakes, high winds, and other natural calamities. A membrane is installed between the house and the brick veneer to protect the structure from water that can penetrate the brick veneers. The cost of installing brick may be higher compared to other siding options, as it is labor-intensive.

  • Stucco Siding

Stucco siding is thick enough to provide better insulation against heat and cold. Stucco siding material is made from cement, sand, lime, and water which makes it highly durable. Before installing stucco siding, you should apply a waterproof barrier paper and galvanized-metal screening over wood to protect the walls underneath. It can be applied to homes made of brick or stone surfaces. The installation needs to be done by a professional to minimize the possibility of unwanted cracks. Stucco siding can last for the lifetime of the house when it is properly installed and maintained.

The decision on the best low-maintenance siding material will be influenced by your budget and what works best for your house depending on the location of your home. It is important to consider your style preference and durability before choosing any siding material. Every type of siding requires regular cleaning and maintenance to maintain its aesthetic beauty and longevity. The best maintenance-free siding minimizes the amount of money invested in property maintenance.