As humans, we all appreciate and enjoy beauty. Naturally, this extends to beautifying the places where we live. We can accomplish this through renovating our homes. Siding is usually among the first things that are replaced when a house is being renovated since they cover a large surface area of the exterior of the house. But, what is siding? In layman's terms, it is material that is used to cover the surface of a home's outer walls. This material can come in the shape of a shingle, a vertical or horizontal board, or a sheet. It's main purpose, besides its cosmetic function, is to protect the house from weather damage brought on by such elements as rain or hail.

 

 

There are several different types of material that can be used to make siding, each with its unique features and benefits. Among those are:

 

The two main types of metal siding are aluminum (more common in homes) and galvanized steel. While aluminum can be more durable as it is corrosion-resistant, steel is usually a better choice for areas with more stormy weather as it does not dent easily. Besides being durable, metal siding is relatively cost-effective, requires minimal maintenance, is fire resistant, and is impervious to rotting and pests. On the other hand, metal siding provides no insulation for the home and is more difficult to install because of its heavy weight. This is where hiring professionals to do the job would be a wise decision.

 

Among the most commonly used siding in homes is wooden siding, preferred for its aesthetic appeal. Some types of woods such as redwood and cedar are naturally weather resistant and make for more durable siding material. Wooden siding tends to be easy to install and repair, but is more prone to decay from pests such as termites or ants and will require maintenance and treatment every few years to preserve its look and strength. Wood is generally better than other materials when it comes to insulation. This is something to be mindful of for those who are looking to keep their energy costs under control.

 

There are many reasons to choose vinyl siding for your home. For starters, it is fairly cost-effective, requires very little maintenance, comes in a wide variety of colours, and can be fashioned to look like wooden siding. It is no surprise that vinyl is the most commonly used type of siding in Canada and the United States today. However, there are a few drawbacks to keep in mind. Unlike wood which is somewhat biodegradable, vinyl is very difficult to dispose of. It is not recyclable, and should not be burned as that would result in the release of harmful gases into the atmosphere. In addition, vinyl does not provide insulation unless fitted with styrofoam or other insulation material. This can have a negative effect on your energy bills.

 

This relatively new category of siding material offers great benefits that seem to be missing with other materials. In addition to requiring low maintenance, insulated siding uses polystyrene foam between the house and the siding that helps insulate the home well, helping lower energy usage. It is also extremely durable, designed to last and preserve its look for several decades. Last but not least, this type of siding is permeable, allowing the wall beneath to breathe and release any water that can be trapped in between the siding and the house. This prevents rotting and the formation of mold, which could affect the air quality inside the house.

 

Installing new siding is a great way to upgrade the look of your home, increase its value, and protect it from weather damage. Call on Roussel Eavestrough to show you which siding types and shapes would be the best for your home. Their extensive experience in home renovation and friendly, professional service can help you transform your house into a beautiful, energy-efficient, and safe home.

 

If you are interested in installing new siding for your home, please visit us at our main site www.rousseleavestrough.com or call us at 416-438-4434.