Feeling stuck figuring out what is the best house siding material? When it comes to home improvement, this is one of the most impactful changes you can make. However, it can also be overwhelming to figure out what option best suits your home.
In this guide, we’ll cover everything PA homeowners need to consider, so you can choose the best material that fits your house, budget, and goals.
Why is Choosing the Right House Siding Material Important?
Before we dive into the best exterior siding materials for PA homeowners, let’s first understand why it’s important to choose the right one.
It Affects Aesthetics & Curb Appeal
The exterior of your home is the first thing people see, and it sets the tone for the rest of the house. Choosing the best siding material can greatly enhance the curb appeal of your home and yield a great ROI. This is especially important if you plan on selling your home in the future, as it can increase its value.
It Offers Protection Against the Elements
Pennsylvania is known for its harsh winters and humid summers, making it crucial to have a siding material that can withstand these weather conditions. The right choice will provide insulation, protect against moisture, and prevent damage from extreme temperatures.
It Takes Up The Most Space
Of all the changes you can make, this is one of the largest since your siding covers the whole outside of your home and is highly visible. Because of this, make sure you choose a material that is durable and requires minimal maintenance. Doing so will save you time and money in the long run and ensure your home stays looking pristine for many years.
The Best Siding Materials For PA Homeowners
Now that we understand the importance of choosing the right siding material, let’s explore the top options for PA homeowners.
Vinyl Siding
Vinyl siding is one of the most popular choices for homeowners in Pennsylvania. It’s affordable, low maintenance, and comes in a variety of colors and styles. Vinyl siding is also durable and can withstand harsh weather conditions, making it a great option for PA homeowners.
At KSW, we proudly partner with CertainTeed to bring you lasting vinyl siding options. Plus, if you like certain styles like board and batten or shake shingle siding, CertainTeed offers siding with those looks but in a much more cost-effective and easy-to-maintain vinyl material.
Pros: With proper installation from a trusted partner and maintenance, this siding can last up to 40 years.
Cons: Over time it can crack or fade, especially with extreme temperatures.
Aluminum Siding
For many homeowners, aluminum siding is an attractive choice due to its durability, affordability, and versatility. It’s a lower-priced option that comes in several colors and styles.
Aluminum siding is a durable option and comes in several different thicknesses. It’s also fireproof and waterproof so there’s no chance for mold or mildew.
However, one of the disadvantages is that even though it’s a thicker material, aluminum siding can dent and scratch easily. These dents and scratches aren’t as easy to repair as other materials.
Another drawback is that aluminum siding can be noisy in extreme weather, like high heat or a wind or rain storm.
Pros: Affordable, durable, and comes in several colors and styles.
Cons: Not as easy to repair, can be noisy, medium maintenance.
Wood Siding
If you’re looking for a more traditional look for your siding, then wood siding would be a good choice. It’s aesthetically pleasing, environmentally friendly, and can last on average up to 40 years or longer with proper maintenance. Wood siding also provides natural insulation, making it energy-efficient.
However, wood siding requires regular maintenance. This includes painting or staining every few years to prevent rot and insect damage. It’s also more susceptible to fire and water damage, which can be a concern for PA homeowners due to the climate.
Pros: Environmentally friendly, energy efficient.
Cons: High maintenance.
Brick Siding
Brick siding is another option to give your home a more traditional look. It’s a durable, low-maintenance product and can withstand extreme weather conditions.
Brick siding is also energy-efficient and provides excellent insulation, which can help lower your monthly expenses.
The main downside of brick siding is its cost. It can be one of the more expensive options, and it also requires professional installation. However, with its long lifespan and minimal maintenance, it can be a worthwhile investment for your home.
Pros: Durable, low maintenance, and energy efficient.
Cons: Cost of materials and professional installation.
Stucco Siding
If you’re looking for a unique and modern look for your home’s siding then stucco could be a good choice for you. It’s made of cement, sand, and lime, and can be applied in a variety of textures and colors. Stucco siding is also durable and can withstand extreme weather conditions.
One of the disadvantages of stucco siding is that it can be prone to cracking, especially in areas with high humidity. It also requires professional installation, which can add to the overall cost. However, with proper maintenance, stucco siding can last up to 50 years.
Pros: Durable and comes in a variety of colors and textures.
Cons: Prone to cracking.
How to Choose the Right House Siding Material for Your Home
With so many options available, it can be challenging to determine the best house siding material for your home. Below we’ve charted out your options so you can quickly assess what factors are most important as you try to determine what is the best siding material.
What Is The Best Siding Material For My House?
| Type | Cost | Maintenance | Average Lifespan |
|---|---|---|---|
| Vinyl | $ | Low | Up to 40 years |
| Aluminum | $ | ✔medium | Up to 40 years |
| Wood | $$ | high | Up to 15-40 years |
| Brick | $$$ | low | Up to 100+ years |
| Stucco | $$$ | medium | Up to 50-80 years |
Budget
One of the biggest considerations you’ll need to take into account when you’re deciding what is the best siding material for your home is your budget. Some siding materials, such as brick and stucco, can be more expensive, while others, like vinyl, are more affordable. What siding you get is going to depend on how much money you’re willing to spend.
Climate
You’re going to want a siding that will work with the climate you live in. If you live in an area with higher humidity, you’ll need a siding material that can withstand that and is resistant to mold and mildew. If you live in an area with harsh winters, you need siding that can withstand that.
Maintenance
While the climate can wear your siding, you can extend its lifespan through regular maintenance. So when you’re looking at siding options, think about how much time you want to spend doing the maintenance
Some materials, like wood and stucco, require regular maintenance, while others, like vinyl and fiber cement, are low maintenance.
Aesthetics
How your home looks is important and siding plays a large role in that. Make sure you choose the best exterior siding material that complements your home’s style and architecture. Consider options like color and texture when making your decision.
Working with Siding Experts
Deciding what is the best siding material for your PA home is a significant decision that requires careful consideration of several factors like your budget, climate, maintenance, and aesthetics. With the right selection, you can improve the appearance of your home, protect it from the elements, and increase its value.
Now that you’ve decided on the best siding material you need to find a trusted partner who can help you through the installation process. At KSW Construction, we carry an extensive variety of exterior siding options and can work with you from when you make your decision to the project’s completion.
If you have questions about siding options for your home, our team is well-educated and ready to provide you with samples, ideas, and a consultation to discuss your needs free of charge.
Our professional crews are licensed and insured and will treat your home as if it were their own. We don’t believe in rushing through jobs—we take our time and make sure our work is up to all PA safety standards.
