Choosing Efficiency First

Choosing Efficiency First

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Choosing Efficiency First

Those windows might look nice, but how well will they protect your home from the weather? Although it might seem like a boring topic, window efficiency can protect your kids, as well as your pocketbook. The right windows can keep drafts to a minimum, while keeping heat-generating UV light outside where it belongs. However, unless you work as a professional contractor, it isn't always easy to know what to ask for. On my website, you will find loads of information about energy efficient windows so that you can make a decision you will be happy with for the long haul.

 

Instead Of Using Real Wood, Consider These 4 Siding Alternatives

22 September 2015
 Categories: , Blog

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When you are looking to replace your home's siding, you are most likely narrowing down the many materials you have to pick from. If you love the appearance of wood siding, but not sure if you are up for all the maintenance to keep bugs away, you may be interested in something else. Here are 4 alternate materials to consider that can match the look of real wood or be just as durable.

Metal Siding

Siding products made out of metal are a very common siding material, and are a great choice for any home. Metal siding has a long lifespan, and will not decay or rot like a siding material made out of real wood. You also have a lot of flexibility when it comes to the color or finish of the metal material, giving you a lot of choices to match the existing look of your home.

A downside to using metal siding is how it can become dented easily, which can be a problem in areas that see a lot of hail damage.

Fiber-cement Siding

A product that is very similar to real wood siding is fiber-cement siding. Many homeowners do not like it because fiber-cement siding needs painting every few years, but you do not have to deal with the material rotting away. This makes it a great alternative to real wood if wood rot is a concern to you.

You also have some variety to choose from when it comes to fiber-cement siding, because you can paint it any color that you want or even get fiber shakes for a look that's a bit different.

Composite Siding

It is common to see composite materials used in today's construction industry. They are used to construct decks, shingles, and siding for homes. The material is made with wood waste and recycled plastics, which will make them very durable. The great thing about composite siding is that you can purchase a material that has a simulated wood-grain look to it, which will be similar to real wood siding without all of its downfalls.

Vinyl Siding

If you need an affordable material, you cannot go wrong with vinyl. The color will last a long time, it has a pleasing aesthetic, water resistant, and relatively maintenance free. Vinyl can even installed over your existing siding, saving you money on the removal costs. It does not perform well under extreme temperatures though. Very cold winter could cause the siding to become brittle and crack, and extremely hot temperatures can cause the vinyl to melt.

Not sure which material you should use? Meet with a local siding installation contractor for a consultation.