Okay, maybe this is a little extreme, but Twin Cities winters sometimes look like this, right? For those of us who live in areas that get extremely cold weather – like here in Minneapolis – it’s important to think about our climate when selecting siding materials. How well is the siding you have in mind going to stand up to Minnesota winters?
Harsh weather can be hard on some siding, so how well a siding product can withstand our conditions is important in terms of being able to protect your home. Here’s a basic look at how well some of the more popular siding materials perform in cold climates.
Vinyl Siding: This is one of the most popular siding options to go with because it is not only relatively affordable, but it looks nice. Unlike some materials, moisture won’t damage the exterior of the siding, so ice and snow aren’t problematic. Quality vinyl siding does provide good protection for a home, but there can be some issues in very cold weather. For example, it can be prone to cracking in extremely cold weather. The quality of the installation really matters, because if moisture gets underneath the siding, there can be issues. But that’s true with most any type of siding product.
Genuine Wood Siding: Once the top siding choice for homeowners in our area, wood siding has become less popular as time moves forward. It has a lot of upkeep and it can be relatively expensive. It’s also not very eco-friendly, which is important to many Minnesotans.
Wood siding does require a lot of maintenance, such as regular repainting or re-staining. If you are considering it, know that wood can absorb moisture, so ice and snow can cause damage that can result in cracking, warping, or rotting. There are other options such as engineered wood like LP SmartSide® that can give you the wood look without the drawbacks.
Brick or Stone: Any type of masonry such as brick or real stone will hold cold, and this can cause the inside of the home to feel just as cold. Brick also tends to absorb moisture, so it can crumble with repeated freezing and thawing. The same is true of mortar, so regular repair or replacement of the mortar is required. Plus it’s quite costly, and most siding contractors don’t install brick or stone. Like the look? We have a great alternative for you that is much more affordable and holds up well in our weather. Talk to us about Versetta® panelized stone from Boral®.
Fiber Cement Siding
Fiber cement siding is one of the top recommendations for homes that are in colder climates. James Hardie offers a line of siding that has actually been engineered to withstand our climate conditions. This siding looks beautiful with minimal upkeep. And it’s one of the more eco-friendly siding materials available. It is a win-win situation for homeowners.
Window Outfitters, Inc. is a licensed Minnesota home remodeling contractor. We work in the greater Minneapolis metro area, including surrounding communities such as Rosemount and Fairbault. Siding installation is just one of our exterior services.
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.
