New siding is a great way to make functional and aesthetic improvements to a home. In addition to protecting the home from the elements, it is a great way to provide it with the appearance the homeowner seeks.
There are plenty of great siding options available, but one of the most important considerations when choosing materials is climate. Northern Virginia enjoys a temperate climate with very few days of extreme temperatures. However, the area is prone to rainfall and occasional harsh elements such as high winds, thunderstorms and hail.
Siding is one of the first lines of defense that a home has against weather conditions, so choosing the right material for the local conditions is the best way to preserve the home’s value. Here is a look at the best materials for siding Northern Virginia homes.
Vinyl
For homeowners who are looking for a siding material that is available in a rainbow of shades and a variety of textures and styles, vinyl is the ideal choice. Low-maintenance and affordable, this is the chosen siding material of around two-thirds of Northern Virginia homes. It is well suited to the area’s wet and humid conditions thanks to its ability to resist water absorption, flaking and rotting. In addition, it stands up well against the heat and wind.
Aluminum
Aluminum may cost a bit more than vinyl siding, but it is popular thanks to its stylish appearance and durability. Like vinyl, it is available in an array of styles and colors so that homeowners can get the exact look they desire. Although aluminum can rust, it will last for many years with proper maintenance and is very easy to clean.
However, one potential issue for homeowners to be aware of is the potential of aluminum siding to dent. Regular inspections can ensure that dents do not compromise the siding’s overall performance.
Fiber Cement
For homeowners who would like the look of wood without the hefty price tag and potential downfalls, fiber cement is a great choice. This siding material has been growing in popularity thanks to its ability to look exactly like natural wood.
Made using a combination of wood fibers, cement and sand, it is better at resisting fire and insects than real wood and is not vulnerable to wood rot. It is particularly suitable for homes near the ocean, thanks to its ability to stand up well in salty and moist air. Although it is slightly more expensive than vinyl, it is a very cost-effective option overall.
Fiberglass
Another siding material that can give homeowners the look of wood without some of its drawbacks is fiberglass. One of its biggest advantages is its lightweight nature, which makes it easy for the structure of the home to maintain the siding. In addition, it is low maintenance and does not require regular caulking and painting to maintain its appearance.
It is also a very versatile option that is available in a range of colors. Many types of fiberglass siding have an acrylic finish that lasts longer than the paint found on other types of siding. In addition, one of its main components is sand, a sustainable material, making this an environmentally friendly option.
Wood
For homeowners with a bigger budget and a greater inclination toward carrying out proper maintenance, it is hard to resist the old-world charm of authentic wood siding. It is particularly suited to older homes that are looking to retain their classic appearance. However, it looks good on traditional and modern homes alike.
Wood siding can be painted or stained to achieve the homeowner’s desired look, although this will require retouching every few years.
Stucco
Stucco siding is available in a broad range of textures and materials. While traditional stucco is made of lime, cement and sand, there is also a synthetic version available. Stucco is revered for its extreme durability; it can last for as long as 100 years with very little maintenance. In addition, stucco is easy to repair when it is damaged as the spot can be fixed instead of replacing the entire facade.
The main drawback of stucco is the possibility of it cracking if the home’s foundation shifts, allowing moisture to make its way behind the material.
With such a broad range of choices available, homeowners should not have much trouble finding a siding material that is suitable to the Northern Virginia climate while providing their home with the look they desire.
Get In Touch With The Northern Virginia Siding Professionals
Whether you are looking to update the siding on an aging home or customize the appearance of a new house, get in touch with the Northern Virginia siding professionals at Adelphia Exteriors. Our team can help you determine the best siding option for your needs and install it at a reasonable price.