Energy-efficiency is about so much more than the cost to your monthly utility budget. It’s also about efficiently maintaining your home to avoid higher repair costs to the roof, walls, floors, heating and air-conditioning systems. Nelson Contracting can help you by suggesting and explaining the most common siding options. After all, it’s worth getting it right from the start.
But What Is Siding?
Siding is the protective material installed over the exterior walls of your house.It keeps rain, snow, heat, and cold from damaging the main structure. If your home has walls that are internally framed (whether wood or steel I-beam), siding is essential. You can choose different options to enhance the look of your home.
There are three energy-efficient and popular types of siding to choose from:
Fiber Cement Siding
This type of siding is a combination of wood fibers, sand, and cement, making it the thickest and most durable option. The thickness provides excellent insulation year-round, keeping the air in your home warm in winter and cool in summer.
It is expensive but low-maintenance and does not need frequent repainting. Other advantages include being waterproof, fireproof, and termite-resistant. It is also easy to style in your preferred color and texture.
Wood Siding
Wood siding is popular because of its natural look and Eco-friendly qualities (requires little treatment). It is effective, durable and insulates very well during both winter and summer, lowering your utility bill. Wood siding also prevents excessive heat build-up.
Another advantage is that panels are easily replaceable. Be sure to stain and repaint often, and do a thorough check if you suspect termites.
Vinyl Siding
By far the most popular option, vinyl siding is the most affordable. It offers the same durable qualities as fiber cement and wood, but it has a few special features. You can easily create a stone, wood, or slate effect with it according to the preferred style for your home. Make sure of the look you choose as you cannot repaint it once it’s done. For extra energy efficiency, you can add insulation (a type of foam) to the vinyl siding as well.
The only disadvantage of vinyl siding is that repairs usually involve replacing entire sections.
Extra Insulation, Extra Efficiency
If you want to get the most out of your money, we recommend adding more insulation. This is usually done with vinyl siding and is just an extra layer installed behind the siding. Additional layers of insulation provide extra protection for your home, allowing less warm air to escape during winter and keeping it cool during summer. No one wants to pay for more heating or more air-conditioning than necessary!
If you need the siding of your home repaired or if you’re busy with a newly constructed home, contact Nelson Contractors for professional help at (402) 464-2418.
