Choosing the Right Exterior Siding for Your Home
Homes that are aesthetically pleasing to the eye will gain the attention of many, but there’s more to a home than aesthetics. A home must stand the test of time, and custom home builders in Tampa are aware that choosing the right siding is vital to the longevity of your home.
Siding is material applied to the walls of a house that protects, insulates, and makes your home aesthetically pleasing. It’s important to know about the different types of exterior siding options for your home while taking into consideration things like the climate you live in, the cost of the siding, energy efficiency, and its durability. Here are five popular siding options to choose from for your home.
1. Stucco
Stucco is made from cement, sand, and lime applied to the surfaces of your home. Stucco is an inexpensive, yet durable option because it is low maintenance. Well-maintained stucco can last a lifetime and costs approximately $2-$7 per square foot to install.
2. Vinyl
Vinyl siding has become very popular because it’s easy to install and comes in a variety of styles and colors. A benefit of this siding is it’s resistance to insects and rot. It is made of plastic, man-made material consisting of chlorine and ethylene. Vinyl is inexpensive and costs around $2-$7 per square foot to install.
3. Brick
Brick is a timeless beauty. Genuine brick is made of clay and shale and is known for its durability and long-lasting lifespan. Some of the benefits of a brick home include, low maintenance, fire and wind protection, and moisture control. Installing brick can be expensive and costs between $6-$15 per square foot.
4. Wood
Wood is a rich, natural beauty for homes with several siding types to choose from such as clapboard, shakes, and shingles. Wood requires more maintenance so choose with rot resistance, splitting, insects, and weather in mind. Installation costs around $5-$10 per square feet.
5. Stone
Granite and limestone are very durable natural stones great for those who want to add texture or accents to their exterior. However, stone is expensive. A less expensive option would be a lightweight stone veneer siding which is a blend of natural and synthetic materials. Stone is insect and fire resistant. Installation will cost between $10-$30 per square foot.