Whether you’re installing siding on a newly built home or replacing old siding, your choices can be overwhelming. One of the most critical parts of siding installation is choosing the material. You need to make an informed decision, as mistakes can only extend your project duration and cost you more money in the long run. Today, there are numerous materials available on the market, each with their own pros and cons. Two materials remain the most popular among American homeowners, though: insulated vinyl and fiber cement. If you’re still thinking about which material to install, this is a great place to get started.
Benefits of Insulated Vinyl Siding
What is insulated vinyl siding? In a nutshell, it’s vinyl siding that comes with an inner polystyrene foam layer that acts as a barrier between your exterior wall and siding. Due to its composition, it provides high levels of insulation. If you’re contemplating your siding material options, do not overlook the many benefits of insulated vinyl siding, such as the following:
- Energy-efficient s
- Insect-resistant
- Durable
- Effective ound barrier
- Environmentally friendly
- Mask for wall imperfections
- Available in numerous styles and colors
Benefits of Fiber Cement Siding
Some homeowners are hesitant about installing fiber cement siding because they think it’s primarily made of gray and unappealing matter. That’s a myth. Fiber cement is a composite material made of sand, cement and cellulose fibers. When used as a siding material, it commonly exudes the beautiful and timeless look of wood siding. It can also be manufactured in a variety of profiles, making it among the most versatile choices in terms of design. Below are some of its most notable benefits:
- Fire- and insect-resistant
- Easy to install
- Low-maintenance
- Aesthetically pleasing
- Highly resilient and durable
- Cost-effectiveunaffected by intense heat and cold
When it comes to choosing a material for your new siding, both insulated vinyl and fiber cement offer a great balance of features. It’s only a matter of choosing which of these two complements your architectural style and climate in your area better. Don’t hesitate to ask your contractor for professional advice.
Now that you have an idea as to what siding material to choose, you’re faced with the challenge of choosing the right style. We’ll be talking about your best style choices in the second part of this three-part blog series. Stay tuned!