Home and Garden: Quality siding is more than a makeover

Submitted by Carey Roofing and Construction

Having quality siding on your home is not only important for appearances — it’s also essential for protection from the elements.

Whether you’re building a new home or remodeling an existing one, there are some things you should keep in mind when choosing the siding that’s best for your project.

You should pick materials that add value, are durable and are easy to maintain, while also keeping your budget in mind.

Carey Roofing and Construction is an expert installer of multiple types of siding.

“James Hardie fiber cement is the best for longevity and adds value to the home, but is more expensive than vinyl siding,” said owner and contractor Chuck Carey. “Vinyl siding usually starts to fade and get brittle at about 25 years. James Hardie can last 40 to 50 years, but needs painting about every 15,” he said.

Fiber cement siding may be more expensive up front, but can save homeowners money in the long run because of its performance advantages over other materials like wood and vinyl. It’s non-combustible, moisture and rot resistant, engineered for specific climate conditions and is unappealing to pests like woodpeckers and termites.

It comes in a variety of textures and colors to give plenty of flexibility in the design and aesthetic of the home.

If fiber cement just isn’t in the budget, Carey recommends high quality vinyl siding.

“We are experts at installing both,” he said. No matter which type you choose, it’s important to use a highly qualified installer to make sure the job is done correctly.

Consumer Reports recommends hiring a professional.

“Siding can refresh a house’s appearance, but it can also create an eyesore by buckling or warping if it’s improperly installed. Even worse, shoddy installation can allow moisture to find its way to the bones of the home, where it could cause mold or rot, compromising the house’s structural integrity,” the organization said in its 2021 Siding Buying Guide.

Carey Roofing offers commitment-free estimates and can help you decide by showing different materials and colors to find what works best for your home. For more details, visit their website at www.careyroof.com.