While aluminum is passé and vinyl still holds its value, siding can be a confusing component in your home improvement journey. There are many different materials, styles, and colors to choose from, and all vary in price. Lucky for you, we’ve broken down some of the most popular options on the market to help you understand what option is best for you.
Fiber Cement Siding
Fiber cement is the happening choice when it comes to siding options. Resilient and versatile, the product recently got a nod from design gurus Chip and Joanna Gaines – the couple has partnered with James Hardie lending its Magnolia Home name to the manufacturer’s line of fiber-cement siding. And as James Hardie’s only Elite Preferred contractor in Delaware, G. Fedale Roofing and Siding is the installer to call.
Senior project consultant Evan Taylor notes that while other area contractors may identify as preferred installers, the designation is more related to their product purchase volume. The exclusive Elite designation comes with the knowledge that G. Fedale prioritizes training and quality control. “It’s important to hire [a contractor] that knows what they’re doing,” Evan says, as the installation is not like that of more standard siding options.
Fiber cement comprises Portland cement, sand, water, and cellulose fibers. It is a beautiful look, Evan says, and comes in smooth or cedarmill textures, and has excellent wind ratings. Color options are endless, and its factory-finished surface can be power washed and repainted, facilitating restoration over replacement. The option is among the priciest, however.
Engineered Stone
While faux-stone siding is beautiful, its higher cost of approximately $4,000 per 100 square feet makes it a better choice as an accent surface. Incorporating engineered stone at knee-wall height or as a border accent enables a customized look while not breaking the bank. Here at G. Fedale, our manufacturer of choice for engineered stone is CertainTeed.
Wood Siding
Wood siding, typically pine or cedar, has become less favorable recently due largely to supply-chain concerns. Its price fluctuates as a result. Composite siding, made by compressing and then bonding wood scraps is an alternative to solid wood, but it too carries a hefty price.
Vinyl Siding
Homeowners looking to replace older aluminum siding with a great price point often choose vinyl. It is more susceptible to wind damage and is not paintable, the option has remained a popular choice over the decades and is easier to install than other siding options. Insulated vinyl is a higher-end option. Backed with rigid foamboard, this larger profile product is more durable than standard vinyl siding as it has less hollow space.
Aluminum Siding
Harder to find these days as its use and popularity have waned over the decades, aluminum siding is sturdy, but dents easily and as a result is not easily repaired. Should a homeowner’s insurance claim be filed due to weather damage, it is more common to fully replace the home’s siding with vinyl.
Fedale will work with you on achieving the look you want with the best products to fit your budget. Contact us today to set up your free estimate.