Installing siding on your home is a major and expensive undertaking, and the last thing you want to do is choose an option that doesn’t match the style of your home or doesn’t properly meet your needs. Some types of siding perform better in our climate than others. The type of siding you choose can also make a big difference in how much the installation costs and how much you have to pay for maintenance and upkeep. In this siding guide for Northern VA, we’ll explain all of your options and their pros and cons to make it easier for you to decide which one is the best match for your home and your budget.
Why Trust Beyond Exteriors for Siding in Virginia?
Beyond Exteriors is a locally owned and operated company that’s been providing exceptional siding and home exterior services in Chantilly and throughout Northern Virginia since 2010. We take pride in exceeding our customers’ expectations and helping them to make their vision for their home come true. Whether it’s siding installation or repairs, you can trust that we’ll perform quality work and get lasting results for a fair price. We have financing options available on approved credit and offer discounts for senior citizens and veterans.
Popular Siding Options for Virginia Homes
When it comes to siding, there are more available options than many homeowners realize. For many years, the primary choice was between wood and aluminum siding. While wood and aluminum are still popular, manufacturers have developed a range of other materials, including PVC/composite, vinyl, and fiber cement board.
Factors to Consider When Choosing Siding in Virginia
There are a variety of factors you should take into account when deciding which type of siding is right for your home, and some of these factors may be more important to you than others. For instance, when considering vinyl versus fiber cement siding in VA, cost and durability are often the main aspects you’ll want to focus on.
Appearance can be a big concern for some people since some siding options are more stylish and can do more to enhance the curb appeal of your home. When deciding between siding materials in VA, you should also consider longevity and how well different options stand up in our climate. Your budget can play a major role in your decision because some options are quite a bit more costly. Maintenance and upkeep can be equally as important, depending on how much work you’re willing to do to keep your siding in good shape and to protect its appearance.
Siding Comparison for Virginia Homes
It’s tough to say what is the best siding for Virginia homes because different types of siding have their own unique upsides as well as a few potential drawbacks. Vinyl siding is among the most affordable options, making it a great choice if you’re on a tighter budget. It also requires much less maintenance than popular options like wood siding. The main drawback to vinyl siding is that it’s not as durable as composite or fiber cement and can be prone to impact damage from hail and flying debris.
Wood siding provides a timeless, classic appearance that many people prefer. However, it usually has higher initial costs than the other options and also higher ongoing costs due to how much more maintenance and upkeep it requires. Wood siding needs to be repainted or stained at least every few years to maintain its appearance and to ensure it’s properly sealed. Even then, the wood can be fairly vulnerable to rot, which is the primary reason why wood siding typically has a shorter lifespan. Cedar siding is less susceptible to rot, cracking, and warping compared to pine. On the other hand, pine is a more economical option that doesn’t need to be painted or stained and resealed as often.
Composite siding is an ideal solution if you prefer the look of wood siding but don’t want to deal with the hassle and expense of all of the necessary maintenance, upkeep, and frequent repair needs. Composite siding is stamped with authentic-looking wood grains. While it doesn’t perfectly mimic the look of real wood, it has a more natural appearance than vinyl or fiber cement siding. The color is also mixed with the composite materials, meaning you won’t ever have to paint or stain the siding. In terms of strength, durability, and life expectancy, composite siding outperforms all options outside of fiber cement. If you’re looking for a combination of durability and style, composite is the best way to go.
Fiber cement siding is extremely strong and durable, allowing it to better withstand impacts without being damaged. It also outperforms the other options in terms of life expectancy and is resistant to fire and pests. When installed correctly, fiber cement siding often lasts for 50 years or more and only requires minimal maintenance. The main thing you need to do is repaint the siding every 10 years or so to maintain its appearance. The only concern with fiber cement siding in the humid Virginia climate is that it can be prone to moisture and mold issues if not properly installed, which can shorten its lifespan and detract from its appearance. The other drawback is the higher cost. The boards are heavier than other types of siding, which makes the installation more difficult and more labor-intensive.
Aluminum siding is a heavy-duty, long-lasting, and low-cost option that stands up well against extreme weather. You can choose from a wide range of colors and either a baked-on enamel or a painted finish, both of which are highly resistant to fading and discoloration. That said, the finish can still eventually start to peel and lead to the siding needing to be repainted.
Our Siding Installation & Replacement Services in Virginia
Whether you’re building a new house or need to replace the siding on an existing home, our expert team is ready to help. We specialize in siding installation and offer quality options from some of the best brands in the industry. We work with a range of siding materials, including vinyl, composite, wood, fiber cement, and aluminum. Our company provides “head-to-toe” exterior services and can upgrade the look of your home with custom trim and shutters, ensuring a beautiful, streamlined appearance that perfectly matches your style and taste. When performing any installation, we always wrap the house with a vapor barrier to prevent moisture from penetrating the house. We also install a foam backing that provides additional insulation and helps to improve energy efficiency.
Find the Best Siding for Your Virginia Home With Beyond Exteriors
At Beyond Exteriors, your satisfaction is our primary goal. You can trust that we’ll always make sure to put your needs and preferences first. We’re proud of the reputation we’ve developed over the years for providing top-quality work and outstanding customer service. If you’re struggling to decide which type of siding is best, we’ll happily explain all of the options we offer and work with you to find the right siding solution for your home. To schedule a siding installation consultation or to get help repairing your existing siding, contact us today.
