How to Install Exterior Light Fixture on Siding

Understanding Different Types of Exterior Home Siding

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Exterior siding is about more than just the appearance of your home. It prevents the elements from damaging the home's structure. New siding does affect the curb appeal and value of your home, so choosing the right one is important. Whether you're building a new home or upgrading your existing home, it helps to understand the differences between the types of exterior house siding before making a decision.

Vinyl

Vinyl is the leader in exterior home siding, making up about 30 percent of the market. It's so popular because it's low cost, easy to maintain, attractive and durable. Vinyl siding is available in many types, including horizontal and vertical. The pieces have interlocking edges to create a clean look. Vinyl siding colors and textures are available in virtually limitless options.

Wood

Wood is one of the most attractive materials used to make exterior home siding. It has a natural look, and the changing tones of the wood give your home a warm and inviting feel. There are several types of wood to choose from, including spruce, redwood, pine, cedar and more. Wood siding requires painting or staining with routine touch-ups on occasion. It's also subject to damage from sun exposure, rot and insects.

Metal

The two most common types of metal siding are aluminum and steel. Aluminum siding is popular in coastal areas where rust is a concern. Steel exterior siding became popular due to its inexpensive availability and durability. While it's more prone to rust, it protects against damage from wind and hail better. Metal siding is low maintenance, comes in a variety of styles, doesn't fade and can be easily retrofitted over other types of siding.

Fiber Cement

Fiber cement was developed to solve the problems associated with wood siding while recreating its look and feel. It's made from wood fibers, sand and cement, so it resists rotting, insect infestation, warping and cracking. It's durable and stands up to all types of climates. Fiber cement siding often carries a warranty between 15 and 30 years.

Brick

Brick has a beautiful look and has been a popular siding for generations. Part of its popularity is due to the fact that it will last more than a lifetime. There are thousands of brick homes around the country that have been standing for more than 100 years. Maintenance is minimal, requiring a wash every once in a while. It's also resistant to termites, rotting, fire and other elements that could damage it.

Stone

Stone is perhaps the most expensive type of siding. Like brick, it's virtually impenetrable by mother nature and has the potential of lasting a lifetime. It requires professional installation by skilled contractors using specialized equipment. Faux stone is an option for people who want the look of stone without the cost. However, it's not as durable as natural stone.

Stucco

Stucco siding is popular in drier parts of the country, though it does work in areas that get a bit more rainfall. Stucco siding starts with a wood wall covered in mesh that has stucco applied to it. Once it dries, stucco will last for 50 to 100 years with minimal maintenance. If a part becomes damaged, it can easily be repaired in a single spot rather than need to replace an entire panel. It can crack or chip, but the use of an epoxy helps minimize it.

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