There are many different types of siding materials that can be used as an exterior decoration for a home. As a homeowner, you need to consider several factors when choosing your siding material. Besides aesthetics, you need to pay attention to versatility, ease of installation, ability to resist water and the durability of the material. The primary function of siding is to protect your home against natural elements. However, siding materials may vary significantly in terms of their pricing. If you are working on a tight budget, it is important to have an idea of more affordable options when it comes to the type of siding material you can install in your home. This article looks at some of the cheapest siding materials by giving a comparison of the most affordable options.
- Wood Siding
Wood siding is considered the most economical material to use for your exterior home decorations since wood materials are considered cheap. However, keep in mind that other types of hardwood materials such as oak can be very pricey. It all depends on the quality of the wooden material and the amount of money you are willing to spend. Generally, wood is unique in appearance as it has an all-natural effect and a more customized style that can be enhanced using different colors of paint and finishes. Although wood is a cheap siding material for your home, insects and harsh weather conditions can easily destroy it.
- Aluminum Siding
Aluminum is used as an alternative siding material to wood. Unlike wood, it is very durable and can last for a lifetime with proper maintenance. Aluminum is a time-tested and budget-friendly siding material that has been used in residential properties for years. If you are looking for a low-cost option siding that comes with low-maintenance, then aluminum is worth considering as it offers many benefits compared to wood siding. Some of the styles that are best suited for aluminum siding include the Shed and Ranch architectural styles as well as the Contemporary and Shotgun style. Bear in mind that the pricing of aluminum siding may vary depending on the quality of metal and its availability in your region or location. Generally, aluminum siding offers some level of protection from common household concerns because of its insect-proof and fire resistance properties.
- Vinyl Siding
Vinyl is often considered economical and versatile because it comes in a wide variety of colors and styles. The total cost of purchasing a vinyl siding may vary depending on the quality and thickness of a particular product. Thinner options of vinyl siding material are usually priced lower than thicker and high-quality panels. Vinyl can mimic most of the high-end siding materials because it is a fabricated material. This means that it can suit a wide variety of architectural styles ranging from distinctive craftsman homes to contemporary styles. While this type of material seems to have many benefits to a homeowner, the savings from the cheaper panels can only be enjoyed in the short-term. This is attributed to the fact that cheaper vinyl siding is more likely to crack or loosen your home’s exterior leading to high costs of replacements and repair.
- Fiber Cement Siding
Fiber cement is about as durable as vinyl but is priced slightly higher because of its many benefits. It is fire-resistant, insect-proof, and offers better protection against elements compared to other cheaper siding materials. It is a great option for homeowners who want to achieve the look of wood or stone siding as it can be made to look like wood, stone or brick. A professional installs it much better since a DIY project could increase the risk of installation errors and drawbacks at the expense of saving on cost. Generally, fiber cement siding has excellent durability, good value, and solid protection against elements. However, a lack of maintenance can be costly since caulk on seams and paint must be kept fresh. Raw fiber cement can deteriorate quickly as it tends to absorb moisture.
The low-cost alternatives also have their benefits and drawbacks just like all siding materials. Water and moisture often find a way to get around them somehow which can lead to expensive repairs and the need for replacements. This means that you have to add a secondary layer of protection to protect the building material behind the siding. Regardless of whether you are using a low-cost alternative or high-end siding to cover your home’s exterior, you will want your siding to last for as long as possible. The best way to ensure the longevity of your siding material is to choose wisely when comparing the material’s durability and conducting regular maintenance.