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A Guide to Popular Types of Home Siding: Which Is Right for You?

Homes are expensive, and siding both beautifies and protects this investment. There are several types of siding, however, so if you're considering having siding installed, a little research may be in order.

A home may be quite an investment. One who invests so much time and money in homeownership should investigate a number of ways to both beautify and protect that investment.

While many homes are built of brick or stucco, many others depend upon siding. Siding not only contributes to the overall look and style of one's home, but protects it from water, weather and many other threats. Siding is affordable and easy to maintain. It comes in a variety of colors and materials, so finding the perfect match for one's home and tastes may be quite simple.

Aluminum Siding

Aluminum siding is among the most popular siding choices. According to home-improvement-tips.com, this could be because it is rust-resistant. As one might suspect with aluminum siding and similar metals, this type of siding is both waterproof and well-insulating. This material is prone to denting, however, so it may be avoided in states where hail storms are common.

Vinyl Siding

Another popular choice is vinyl siding. Vinyl siding is very similar to aluminum, but rarely dents. Vinyl never requires paint because it does not rust and its color permeates the entire thickness of the panels. Vinyl comes in many different colors, sizes and lengths.

Composition Board

Composition board, or hardboard, is composed of several sheets or planks of compressed wood fiber. While it can be treated for water-resistance, it may still require replacement should it become too wet. One must usually repaint hardboard periodically as well.

Shingles

Shingles provide another type of siding. Shingles are usually made from cypress, redwood or a similar wood. They can be applied in a smooth, single-layer or in an overlapping, textured fashion. They are, however, prone to cupping (rolling towards the center) and checking (cracking or splitting).

Veneer

One final type of siding is veneer. Veneers are often made of some type of brick or stone. As one might suspect, veneers are ideal for those who love the look of old stone or brick houses, but have a traditional wood-frame house. They come in a variety of textures, colors, and thicknesses. Veneers are also ideal for those living in rainy regions, because water cannot usually penetrate them. This type of siding never requires painting, so maintenance is minimal.

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