Siding does more than boost curb appeal; it’s a home’s frontline defense against harsh weather conditions, pests and rising energy costs. The right siding can also reduce maintenance costs, increase resale value and boost a building’s performance.
From wood clapboard to stone veneer, homeowners have a variety of options for aesthetic and functional purposes. Contact Charleston Siding Pros for professional help.
Cedar is one of the most durable wood siding options available and is known for its rot resistance. It is also an effective insulator, keeping the heat in and the cold out. Additionally, cedar is a natural carbon sink and can lock away up to 100 times more carbon than a tree of the same size would in a similar environment.
Because of this, it is a greener choice than other types of siding. It grows fast, requires little chemical treatment, and has a natural oil that makes it resistant to pests and rot. It also doesn’t swell and shrink as much as other species of wood, making it more stable for your home.
Cedar and redwood are beautiful in any setting and complement any style of home. Their rich hues mellow and age gracefully over time to give your home a timeless elegance that synthetic and cement sidings cannot match.
Unlike many other types of wood, cedar doesn’t have pitch or resins that can lift the grain and cause it to split when exposed to extreme conditions. However, it does contain a substance called tannin that is repellant to insects and rodents and protects the wood from rot. It is recommended that you have your siding stained to help with these issues, as well as to protect the wood from mold and mildew.
Shake and shingle siding is often used on rustic homes, cabins, and barns and comes in a variety of sizes and shapes. It can be left to weather naturally to a silvery patina or treated with a high-quality stain to keep it looking brand new for years to come.
These styles are also commonly used on more modern homes to add a touch of class and sophistication. It is often combined with other types of wood, such as fir or hemlock, to create more unique looks. Bevel siding is a more traditional option that features overlapping boards that run vertically along the walls of your house. This classic look offers a traditional, elegant aesthetic that is reminiscent of colonial buildings and is popular with homeowners who have a more traditional taste.
Shakes and Shingles
Cedar shakes and shingles are popular siding options due to their raw, rustic beauty. They can add a rustic and textured look to your home’s exterior, boosting curb appeal. They’re also known for their durability, longevity, and ability to improve a home’s stability. Despite their reputation for durability, shakes and shingles require regular maintenance to avoid issues such as rot, insect infestation, and fire.
The main difference between shakes and shingles is that shakes are hand-split, creating a more rustic, textured appearance, while shingles are machine-cut for a smoother, uniform finish. They also come in a variety of thicknesses and textures. You can choose from tapersawn, medium split and resawn, and heavy split and resawn shakes. Tapersawn shakes are sawn on both sides, mimicking the smooth uniform look of shingles, while medium and heavy split and resawn shakes offer more rugged looks.
Shake shingle siding can be left natural to age to a beautiful silvery gray or painted to preserve its original color and style. It can also be stained or treated to help prevent rot, insects, and moisture damage. Although shake shingle siding is ideal for rustic and traditional styles, it can also be used on modern homes.
Unlike other types of siding, cedar does not need to be painted. However, it will eventually need to be restained or sealed to protect against moisture and weather damage. It’s important to reseal or repaint your shakes and shingles every 3 to 5 years, depending on the climate where you live.
Another disadvantage of shake shingle siding is that it does not offer as much insulation as other types of siding. This can increase your energy costs during the winter and summer. It is also not as fire-resistant as other types of siding, so you may need to use special treatments in areas with high wildfire risk.
One of the biggest disadvantages of shake shingle siding is that it can be prone to pest infestations, including termites and carpenter ants. While the wood can be treated to resist insect infestations, you will need to perform frequent maintenance and inspections to ensure that it remains pest-free.
Tongue-and-Groove
Tongue and groove siding is a popular choice for many cabins, chalets, and rustic-style homes. The slats have a tongue on one side and a groove on the other, and fit together to create a seamless appearance with no visible gaps or fasteners. It’s also a durable option that can withstand harsh weather conditions and requires less maintenance than other types of siding.
While it is more expensive than shiplap, tongue and groove siding can last a long time with proper care. It’s important to choose a high-quality wood that can withstand the elements and stay strong and beautiful for years to come. This type of siding is typically made from pine or cedar, but may be available in other species as well.
This type of siding is available in a wide range of styles and materials, making it an excellent choice for almost any exterior or interior project. It can be painted or stained to suit your personal style, or left natural for a more authentic look. It is also easy to install, requiring only basic tools and simple steps. The overlapping design of tongue and groove boards can add character to your home’s exterior, while the tight fit offers added insulation, helping to keep your home warm in Ashwaubenon’s cold winters.
Like other types of wood paneling, tongue and groove is often used as a ceiling treatment to create a decorative and warm atmosphere. However, it can be used in a variety of other applications, including wainscoting, shelving, and more.
A variety of different materials can be used to make tongue and groove panels, but cedar, pine, and spruce are commonly chosen due to their attractive aesthetic and durability. Some manufacturers also offer composite or synthetic options for homeowners who are concerned about the environmental impact of traditional wood.
Depending on the material you choose, tongue and groove panels can be installed horizontally, vertically, or diagonally. It’s best to hire a professional for comprehensive installation services, as they can ensure the boards are cut and aligned correctly for a smooth, seamless finish.
Vertical Siding
Adding vertical siding can elevate your home’s exterior. It can call attention to features like gables, dormers, and entryways, or it can create a unique aesthetic for your home. Whether you prefer a rustic, farmhouse aesthetic, or something more contemporary, there’s a vertical siding style that suits your tastes and needs. Choosing the right type of vertical siding can help you boost your home’s curb appeal, increase its value, and protect your property from the elements.
One of the most popular types of vertical siding is board and batten, which consists of wide boards alternated with narrower strips (known as “battens”). This style suits both rustic and farmhouse aesthetics and can be mixed with other siding styles to highlight specific architectural features. Another option is shiplap siding, which has become increasingly popular due to its clean, modern look. Shiplap is made from wide planks that are tightly fitted together, and it can be used horizontally or vertically.
Both options can make your home’s exterior appear more imposing, giving it an elegant and sophisticated appearance. Depending on the materials used, they can also improve your home’s energy efficiency. Unlike horizontal siding, vertical siding doesn’t have any gaps that can allow water to enter your home, causing damage such as mold and rot.
It’s important to choose the best type of siding for your property based on your budget, maintenance level, and style preferences. Vinyl is an affordable and low-maintenance choice, while wood offers a warm and natural look but requires regular upkeep to prevent moisture damage. Fiber cement and metal are more expensive but offer exceptional durability and longevity, potentially saving you money in the long run.
When installing vertical siding, it’s important to ensure that the boards are properly aligned with your home’s studs. If the studs are not square with each other, it will create gaps that can allow water to seep into your apartment, leading to issues such as mold and mildew. To avoid this, it’s essential to measure the height and width of each stud and cut each panel accordingly.