During the fall here in the Minneapolis area, homeowners are prepping their houses for winter. And for some, that means getting siding repaired or replaced. The harsh winter we had last year – plus the heavy rains and windstorms this past spring – caused problems such as siding damage for many houses around the Twin Cities. If your home suffered and it’s time for new siding, here’s a basic review of your options.
Before you spend your money, you need to carefully consider the choices you have in siding. You want something that is going to last; you want your home to look good on the outside, while also being protected from the weather elements. Residential siding comes in many different types of materials:
Vinyl and Aluminum
These are some of the most affordable options to go with. They do not require much maintenance and come in many different colors, so you can choose which suits your home the best. You cannot however, change the color of your home since paint won’t adhere well to either of these materials. Good-quality vinyl siding should retain its color for 10-15 years. Some vinyl siding can be painted, but the results won’t be like brand-new, and many warranties are voided if you paint the siding. If you’re looking for an economical yet quality siding choice, we recommend insulated vinyl siding.
Clapboard and Other Wood
The look of clapboard and other wood siding is upscale and traditional, but it does take a lot to install and then maintain it. This makes it more expensive to have put on your home. Keep in mind that it will have to be painted and maintained every year that it is on the home. If you want to change the color of your home, wood siding can be stained or painted. It requires regular caulking and other care to keep it in good condition, so that’s an additional expense to factor in.
Fiber Cement
This is a durable, all-around great option for siding your home. It is affordable and durable compared to other options on the market. You’re able to get most any look you want with this material since you can get it in different colors, and a number of profiles such as shake, scallop, board and batten, etc. are available. Fiber cement siding is also highly resistant to fire, so you may qualify for a discount on your homeowner’s insurance if you install this.
Other Siding Options
In addition to these most common siding products, other materials such as steel and fiberglass are available. Steel siding is now being produced that resembles wood or shake siding, and fiberglass is an emerging no-maintenance siding product that’s incredibly durable. Fiberglass siding is one of the more expensive alternatives, but because of its incredible durability and maintenance-free nature, it can be a very wise financial choice in the long run.
If it’s time for new siding, please give us a call today for a free consultation. We can discuss your needs and your budget and review your options with you. We install Craneboard insulated vinyl siding, James Hardie fiber cement siding products, and Apex Ultrex fiberglass siding from Marvin. For some inspiration, look on our Pinterest Board to find out some beautiful siding ideas. And then give us a call to set up a no-obligation appointment. We’re scheduling siding installation this fall to get Minneapolis area homes ready to withstand another Minnesota winter.
Window Outfitters is a premier Window Replacement, doors, siding contractor and installer. As Contractor in the St Paul, Minneapolis, (Twin Cities) Minnesota (MN) metro, we proudly serve, but are not limited to, the following areas: Minneapolis Energy Efficient Vinyl Windows, Replacement Window Contractors Minnesota, Burnsville, Apple Valley, Lakeville, Savage, Bloomington, Edina, Richfield, Eagan, St Paul, Hastings, Minnetonka, Plymouth, Maple Grove, Eden Prairie, Farmington MN, Chaska, Shakopee, Chanhassen, Victoria, Mendota Heights Anderson Windows Minneapolis, Marvin Windows Minneapolis.
