Replacing your old siding might be the answer if you want to improve your home's appearance, value, and energy efficiency. But with so many siding options on the market, how do you know which one is right for your New Jersey home? This Archer Exteriors guide will help you find the best siding for your home by considering some essential factors, such as durability, cost, maintenance, and style. We'll also give you tips on choosing a reliable siding contractor to install it.
Factors to Consider When You Choose Your Siding
Durability: New Jersey has a diverse climate, ranging from hot and humid summers to cold and snowy winters. That means your siding needs to withstand temperature fluctuations, moisture, wind, hail, and UV rays. Some of the most durable siding materials are fiber cement, metal, and brick. These materials can last decades without cracking, fading, warping, or rotting. However, they are also more expensive and heavier than other options.
Cost: The cost of siding depends on several factors, such as the type and quality of the material, the size and shape of your house, the amount of labor and preparation required, and the warranty and installation fees. Generally speaking, vinyl siding is the most affordable option, followed by wood and engineered wood. Fiber cement, metal, and brick are more expensive options. However, it would help to consider the long-term maintenance and repair costs when choosing siding.
Maintenance: Different types of siding require different levels of care. Vinyl siding is the easiest to maintain, as it only needs an occasional wash with a hose or a soft brush. Wood siding requires more maintenance, such as painting or staining every few years to prevent fading and decay. Fiber cement siding is relatively low-maintenance but may need repainting every 10 to 15 years. Metal siding is also low-maintenance, but it may dent or scratch easily. Brick siding is virtually maintenance-free but may need tuck-pointing every 20 to 30 years.
Style: The style of your siding should match the architectural style of your home and your personal preference. You can choose from various colors, textures, and patterns to create a unique look for your home. Some of the most popular styles are:
- Clapboard: Horizontal planks that overlap each other.
- Shingle: Small pieces that resemble roof shingles.
- Board-and-batten: Vertical planks with narrow strips covering the seams.
- Shake: Rough-cut pieces that create a rustic look.
- Stone or brick veneer: Thin layers that mimic the look of natural stone or brick.
How to Choose the Best Siding Contractor
Once you've decided on the type and style of siding you want for your home, you must find a reputable siding contractor to install it. Here are some tips on how to choose the best siding contractor for your project:
- Ask for recommendations from friends, family, neighbors, or online reviews.
- Check their credentials, such as license, insurance, certification, and affiliation with trade associations.
- Ask for past clients' references and see the portfolio of their completed projects.
- Get at least three written estimates from different contractors and compare them in terms of price, scope of work, materials used, warranty offered, and timeline.
- Read the contract carefully before signing it, and make sure it includes all the project details.
Find Out How We've Become Everyone's Trusted Siding Contractor
We hope this guide post has helped you learn how to choose the best siding for your New Jersey home. If you have any questions or need professional advice on siding installation, don't hesitate to contact us today. We are a trusted siding contractor with years of experience and expertise in all siding materials and styles. We offer free estimates, quality workmanship, and customer satisfaction.
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