When you think about the building components protecting your home, what comes to mind? Roofing and internal structures might be some of the first things you think of, but what about the various external components below your roofline? While home siding may not seem like anything special—decoration rather than protection—it often plays a critical role in keeping your home structurally sound. 

To get the most out of your home’s siding, it’s important to choose the best siding for your home and climate, as well as ensure that it is installed properly. And at WestBank Roofing, we can assist homeowners across Southeast Louisiana with both of these tasks. With our vinyl siding installation and repair services, you can rest assured that your home will be protected from inclement weather without losing any of its aesthetic appeal. 

Common Types of Home Siding

Siding is a protective, attractive and potentially insulating structural component which covers the exterior walls of your home. With a variety of materials, colors and textures available, siding allows you to personalize your property while also boosting its curb appeal. But in order to get the most out of your siding, it’s important to choose the best type for your home and climate. Some of the most common siding options include:

1. Vinyl

Crafted primarily from polyvinyl chloride (PVC), vinyl siding is a durable and cost-effective option which has only grown in popularity since its introduction in the late 1950s. The material comes in a range of styles, colors and textures, and can even mimic the appearance of other materials such as wood and stone. Vinyl siding is also typically retrofitted over existing materials, making installation quicker and easier. However, this type of siding is often susceptible to damage from fire as well as extreme heat and cold, and may have less impact resistance than other types of siding. 

2.Wood

A classic, timeless option, wood siding comes in a variety of styles, including bevel, board and batten, shakes and shingles. It may also come in a range of materials, such as fir, spruce, cedar and pine. The attractiveness of this siding material is matched by its cost—wood can be one of the most expensive forms of siding, in part due to its time-intensive installation process. It also requires regular maintenance, and is prone to issues including moisture damage, pests and warping. However, wood is also insulating and environmentally friendly, and can be stained or painted to alter its appearance or bring out its unique textures.

3. Fiber cement

Fiber cement is currently rising in popularity, and for good reason—this material is durable, long-lasting and relatively low-maintenance. It is also resistant to many forms of damage, including pests, water intrusion and even fire. Like vinyl, it can mimic other materials such as wood and stucco, and it is available in a variety of colors. However, it is not an inexpensive material, and as professional installation is recommended, your upfront costs may be raised even further.

4. Metal 

Made from materials including aluminum and steel, metal siding is a cost-effective, durable and weather resistant option for homeowners. Popular in the ‘40s and ‘50s, aluminum siding has been slowly replaced by vinyl—but that doesn’t mean it’s out of the game. The material is available in a variety of styles and is easily customized to meet your personal preferences, allowing it to suit a range of homes. Additionally, it is easily installed; resists damage from pests, water and fire; and does not require extensive maintenance. That being said, metal has its faults, like every other kind of siding material. It is prone to dents, can fade or become chalky over time, and is neither soundproof nor particularly insulating. 

How Does Siding Protect Your Home?

So, besides improving your home’s aesthetics and partially or fully protecting your walls from water intrusion, what benefits does siding offer homes and homeowners? Some reasons to consider installing siding include:

  • Pricing. Siding of all kinds offers increased home protection and, in many cases, reduced maintenance needs. As such, even the most expensive materials may make up for their initial cost many times over.
  • Lifespan. Even the shortest-lived siding options—such as vinyl siding—last several decades.
  • A boost in curb appeal and property value. However, the degree to which it raises the value of your property may depend on the age and quality of the material.
  • Improved energy efficiency. Wood, fiber cement and insulated vinyl siding, among other materials, may help to insulate your home, boosting your property’s energy efficiency in turn.
  • Resistance to elements. While how weather resistant your siding is depends on the material used, many are capable of protecting your home from damaging heat, cold, rain and even fire. Heat and water protection are particularly important in Louisiana, where high temperatures and humidity are common during much of the year. 

The Importance of Conducting Regular Siding Maintenance

Even the most low-maintenance types of siding may need regular attention in order to continue looking and functioning as intended. Some do-it-yourself and professional maintenance methods to consider include:

  • Clear and maintain your gutters in order to prevent water from spilling over and damaging your siding.
  • Cleaning your siding. Use a brush, cloth, garden hose or pressure washer to remove built-up grime, mold and mildew from your property’s exterior at least once or twice per year. This not only improves your siding’s appearance, but also protects it from the damaging effects of unchecked mold and mildew growth. 
  • Inspecting your siding. Do a visual check of your siding at least once annually, as well as after storms. Look for signs of damage including cracks, holes, warping, peeling paint and loose siding panels. If you notice any of these issues, you may need to call in a professional and have them conduct siding repairs.
  • Repaint or restain your siding when the color begins to peel or fade. These coatings both add a layer of protection from the elements as well as improve your property’s aesthetic appeal.
  • Remove plant growth from your exterior walls. While it may look attractive, it may also end up damaging your property.

Boost Your Home Protection with WestBank Roofing

As a homeowner, it’s easy to overlook the importance of siding and think of it as an aesthetic addition rather than a protective one. In reality, however, adding siding to your home may be one of the best ways to prevent structural damage. From keeping out pests to protecting your property from wind, heat and rain, siding ensures your home will remain attractive and uncompromised for decades to come.

Of course, the benefits of siding aren’t unconditional. Without proper installation and maintenance, you may risk compromising the siding and, in turn, the rest of your home. This is where a professional contracting company like WestBank Roofing comes in. With services including vinyl siding installation and siding repair, we ensure your home exterior stays as structurally sound as possible in order to protect your home from storms and temperature extremes alike. 

If you would like to learn more about siding, or if you are interested in planning an installation, WestBank Roofing is happy to help. Just give us a call or send us a message to schedule a consultation today