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Exterior
Wood or Aluminum House Siding installation may be viable options to Vinyl
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Comparing shopping for home siding to selecting a brand new pair of shoes may seem an unlikely analogy, but we think it works perfectly! After all, we have all bought new shoes and we understand the process. So let's simplify it. You begin by choosing a style that works well for you, then you choose a complementary color and finally size–does it fit you? You slip it on to determine durability and comfortability, and finally you turn the shoe over to locate that hidden price tag with hopes it is in your budget.
Believe it or not, the process is pretty much the same when determining what type of siding is right for your home. You will begin by checking out other homes in the neighborhood for style options. Then you will examine your color palette to determine which color will serve to enhance your home's curb appeal. You will also want to take your local climate into consideration. What type of siding will be the most durable and last the longest. Will it be hard to maintain? Finally, the all-important question–is it in your price range?
This particular section of our website will allow you to explore all your siding options. After all, vinyl is not your only choice, and savvy shoppers know they need to look at all their alternatives. Let's take a closer look.
For
those homeowners, who prefer the beauty and warmth offered by wood
siding, redwood, cypress and cedar are favored options. However, despite the fact that wood is the most aesthetically
pleasing choice; you need to determine if it is really right for your
house–after all, it does involve a great deal of care and expense.
You need to begin by considering what basic styles of wood are available.
They include board shingles that can be installed diagonally, horizontally
and vertically, as well as shingles and shakes.
Next, you will need to carefully contemplate the pros and cons of wood siding. As we have mentioned, wood is naturally beautifully, and it also provides you with an opportunity for choosing colors from a virtually limitless palette. Whether you stain or paint your wood siding; you will definitely be able to reflect your personal style and taste. In addition, with regular maintenance wood can last up to 30 years!
So how important is regular maintenance? It is the key to ensuring your siding will last! After all, wood is an organic substance that is permeable, so it does absorb and give off moisture. Additional concerns include expanded or bowed panels, disintegration, fading, shrinkage and even the local wildlife. The neighborhood woodpecker could become an instant problem!
There are a few additional
steps you can take to ensure the protection of your wood siding. Try to
minimize your home's exposure to moisture. You obviously cannot control
the weather, but you can be sure to distance your sprinklers from the
house. Repainting will need to occur every five to seven years, and staining
every three to five years. Finally, be sure to perform routine inspections
of nails, joints and planks. These simple steps will help maintain your
wood siding for years and years!
| Once you've given your house a siding facelife, you may want to consider your options for replacement windows, including the best manufacturers, materials, window types etc. |
Aluminum siding
Durability and ease of maintenance make aluminum
siding popular among many homeowners. Interestingly, aluminum actually
shares quite a few similarities with vinyl. There are just a few exceptions
to note. However, before we discuss the pros and cons of this type of
siding, let's take a look at the basics. This type of siding comes in
'boards' that are available in both wide and narrow styles. The benefit
of these styling options is that you can easily adjust your siding to
complement your home's architectural flow. In addition, aluminum is available
in a wonderful array of colors and textures.
While aluminum is quite durable and very long lasting, there are a few considerations to be made. Aluminum is often susceptible to dips, dents and dimples. It will also require regular light cleaning, in order to avoid any staining that may be associated with mildew, grass and dirt. The good news is that generally a bit of low-pressure washing will do the job!
Aluminum does require painting
every few years to freshen its coat. While taking care of your paint,
be sure to note any cracking or blistering that may have occurred. Thankfully,
you will be able to easily replace any 'boards' that have been damaged.
However, we encourage you to secure your own supply of replacements, as
the style you purchased may be discontinued leaving you in a bit of a
predicament. Still, with careful planning, regular maintenance and some
light cleaning, your aluminum siding will impress you for years to come
with its durability!
Take a moment to peruse our
; or to request you're free quote, go here »
| Other home improvement offerings... A fast and efficient mail order and retail company, selling world wide. Architectural Ironmongery are specialists in restoration hardware. Supplying an extensive range of door and window hardware and electrical fittings. Their products come in brass, black iron, hand-forged iron, pewter, porcelain, patina and bronze. |
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