Austin Texas Siding

Austin Texas Siding: One of the great American dreams has always been to own a home.  Of course with owning your home comes the responsibility of maintenance and upkeep; exterior of your home is no exception.  Many American homes today are built with brick (1-4 sided) and all other sides made with siding, typically vinyl.  When it comes time to replacing the siding on your home having a little bit of knowledge can go a long way towards saving you time and especially saving you money.  There are four primary types of siding that are the most popular: vinyl, cement fiber, composite, and aluminum.

Siding Considerations

The most important consideration to take into account is the area you live in.  Climate plays a significant role in being able to maximize its lifetime use.  What does well in a certain area of the country will not do well somewhere else and this goes for roofing, windows, and siding.  For example, if it rains and snows heavily in your area then you want something that will not absorb moisture and trap water causing mildew and mold.  Another example is if your area tends to be dry, then a fire resistant material may be the way to go. 

Fiber Cement Siding

One of the more popular types of siding today for sure is fiber cement siding made by brands like GAF and HardiePlank or more commonly recognized as Hardie board and named after James Hardie.  The reason for its popularity is because it is relatively inexpensive and perhaps most importantly, extremely durable.  Along with good replacement windows this amazing siding material is able to stand up to high winds and rain and more importantly for the people that live in the higher temperature areas of the United States, can stand up to the never ending rays of the sun.  For example in many areas of Texas the exterior of your home can expect to see in excess of 30 days or more of 100 degree weather every single year.  Fiber cement is rot-resistant and also termite resistant.  This is definitely a quality option worth looking into.

Vinyl Siding

Vinyl siding has been popular for a very long time.  It is inexpensive and great way to go if you are on a limited budget.  Vinyl comes in many colors from different shades of white to other classic colors like browns and grays.  You may have to pay a bit more but there are some vinyl siding companies that offer the whole spectrum of colors.  Vinyl is usually long strips of “plasticky” looking pieces that are put together like a jigsaw puzzle. Vinyl does have its pros and cons just like anything else, but the great thing about it is the sudden change in the look and feel of your home.  Another cool thing about vinyl siding is that it doesn't have to be painted; once it’s on it’s on for life.

Aluminum Siding

Aluminum siding is a popular choice for many folks due its durability and resistance to multiple weather conditions especially for homes in the northern parts of the United States where rain and snow can put any material to the test.  In terms of cost, it can be on the high end when compared to other available siding options but again there is less upkeep and maintenance with aluminum.  Unlike most vinyl siding, aluminum can be painted any color you want.  This material can be a bit more expensive due to installation costs.  Like any project it’s always a good idea to get multiple bids from contractors if you are not a diy (do it yourself-er).

Composite Siding

Composite siding aka engineered siding is a mixture of different types of material that give it the same look and feel as wood.  It’s very similar to Hardie Plank or fiber cement for its durability and easy installation.  It also is resistant to rot, weathering, wind damage, and termites.  One other benefit we haven’t mentioned is that many siding products including composite can help insulate more of the outside weather conditions therefore making your home more energy efficient.  Composite can be installed vertically, horizontally, or like your roof, in shingle form.  The other great thing about composite siding is that it also can be painted over in the colors you most want.

Austin Texas Siding has descriptions, costs, and repairs for different types of siding and more...