Colonial homes have a classic appeal, and although the roots of this style can be traced to the Colonists in the 1600s, the siding on these homes tends to have a much shorter history. If the siding on your Colonial home has seen better days or you are ready to change its appearance, here is a look at what you should consider when giving it an update.
The Potential to Transform
Replacing a home’s siding has the power to transform its appearance in a way that very few other renovations can. In fact, buyers tend to pay 7% more, on average, for a home that has great curb appeal compared to one with a neglected exterior, making this one of the top projects for those who are looking to sell their home.
Buyers form an opinion of the house before they ever step inside, so it’s a great way to make that first impression as strong as possible.
A siding replacement project often proves to be a good investment. Although some types of siding can be on the expensive side, the 2022 Remodeling Impact Report from the National Association of the Remodeling Industry and the National Association of Realtors found that with two popular siding options, vinyl and fiber cement, homeowners can recover 82 and 86 percent of their investment, respectively.
Many homeowners often note further savings due to the lower utility bills that arise from the greater energy efficiency of new siding.
How Can You Tell When Your Siding Needs to Be Replaced?
Siding is usually made from sturdy materials, but its constant exposure to a variety of harsh elements, from direct sunlight and heat to strong winds and freezing temperatures, means it will not last forever.
Even general wear and tear can degrade it to the point that it makes your home vulnerable to mold, structural issues, and deteriorating walls. If you notice any of these signs, it may be time to replace your siding:
- Broken sections
- Cracks, chips, or holes in siding
- Faded color on siding panels
- Missing, loose, or warped panels
- Moisture inside the home
- Higher energy bills
- Bubbling paint on siding
- Mold or mildew
Good Types of Siding for Colonial Homes
There are many types of siding that are suitable for Colonial homes, and your choice will largely depend on your budget and desired aesthetic. Here is a look at some of the best choices.
Brick Siding
Brick siding is one of the most common options for Colonial-style homes. In addition to providing them with a classic look, it also boasts incredible durability, which means your home can enjoy a beautiful look for many decades.
Although brick siding has been falling out of favor slightly in recent years, it remains popular among those with Colonial homes, especially those from the 19th century onward, who are seeking the most authentic look possible.
Wood Siding
Another popular choice for Colonial-style homes is wood siding. Primed wood siding is easily available and can be surprisingly durable when maintained properly. However, if it is not updated periodically, its paint is prone to fading.
This type of siding is also vulnerable to weather-related damage, so it is not a good choice in places that experience extreme weather conditions.
Stone Siding
Stone siding works well with Colonial-style homes, and many homeowners opt for stone veneer siding, which is more lightweight than traditional stone and easier to add to existing homes.
Stone siding does cost considerably more than brick, wood and stucco. However, it often lasts for the home’s entire lifetime, which means it provides a good return on investment in the long run.
Stucco Siding
Stucco may not be the first material that comes to mind when thinking of most Colonial homes, but it can actually be applied in a way that suits this aesthetic. For Spanish Colonial homes, it is the top choice of siding material.
Affordable, long-lasting and highly weather-resistant, stucco mimics the appearance of the abode that was used by Spanish colonists on their California homes. However, it is now popular throughout the country.
This combination of cement, sand, lime and water is easy to customize with paint, making it ideal for homeowners who are seeking a specific color and those who wish to change their home’s color frequently.
Vinyl Siding
Although vinyl siding is not found on traditional Colonial homes, some homeowners are choosing it for renovations thanks to its affordability and customization options. Vinyl siding can be created to look much like primed wood, giving homeowners the traditional look they want at a fraction of the price.
Discuss Your Siding Project with Adelphia Exteriors
For answers to your questions about siding options for Colonial homes, get in touch with the experienced Northern Virginia siding contractors at Adelphia Exteriors. Our team can help you make informed decisions about the best way to renovate your Colonial home with siding.