Siding Options for Your Home

The color, texture, and design of siding makes the exterior of a home attractive, but it does more than just reflect the taste of the homeowner. It also protects the home from animals, insects, and weather. Aluminum, stucco, brick, vinyl, and wood are only some of the siding choices available.

Aluminum siding comes in a variety of colors and has an enamel finish that can be smooth or textured. Because it's manufactured, aluminum is sometimes made to look like wood, but it won't rot or attract bugs the way wood does, and it's suitable for most climates. However, it dents easily and the finish is prone to cracking, fading, and chalking. It will need repainting every few years. Other maintenance consists of washing it with a hose at least once a year. Spots or stains may be cleaned with detergent or vinegar. When installed, pieces are overlapped to prevent water from getting between the slats. Some aluminum siding is also dent resistant and when properly cared for, it can last 25 years or more.

Stucco is made of sand, water, and cement. It's often textured and has an acrylic finish that helps make it waterproof and weatherproof. It provides good insulation, but is brittle and prone to wildlife. Holes created by birds and insects need to be repaired immediately to prevent water from getting behind the siding. Because it's porous, stucco also stains easily. Degreaser or bleach may remove some of these stains. When installed in dry climates and properly maintained, stucco can last up to 25 years.