There are quite a few different options on the market when it comes to siding. That includes various siding types, made out of different materials. The siding materials most commonly used include vinyl, steel, wood and engineered wood, as well as fiber cement.
Some siding types are more frequently used than others. Several siding materials have more disadvantages than others. Not all siding performs equally well in every climate. The climate is definitely something you should keep in mind when picking your siding material.
Choosing Siding Based On Geography and Weather
The Colorado climate varies quite a lot throughout the year. We see everything from snow and hail storms to hot, dry summers in this beautiful state. That means your siding needs to be able to withstand the changing weather throughout the year.
With the Colorado climate in mind, there are some siding types that work better than others. Some siding materials are less suited because of their limitations in our climate. We want to look at the limitations of vinyl, steel, wood and engineered wood siding in Colorado.
Vinyl Siding Limitations
One of the major limitations of vinyl siding in Colorado is its proneness to impact damage. In a state with frequent and severe hail storms that is problematic. Vinyl gets damaged easily by hail and it will leave your siding pockmarked or even cracked and broken.
When vinyl siding, or any siding really, becomes damaged it can lead to moisture damage. This can cause rot, mildew, and mold beneath the siding. That might mean extensive and costly damage to your home that is best avoided all together.
The Colorado sun is relentless and will cause your vinyl siding to fade over time. Unlike other siding vinyl cannot be painted. That reduces the amount of maintenance required, which is great, but it also means that once your siding color fades there is nothing to do about it other than to replace it.
Steel Siding Limitations
Steel siding is quite heavy, takes longer to install, and is over all more expensive than most other siding types. The big advantage of steel siding is the fact that it requires very little maintenance when properly installed. Even though it is rather impact resistant, it can be damaged.
Hail is always something you have to keep in mind when you live in Colorado and a severe hail storm could damage steel siding. Once it is damaged it is susceptible to rust. It can also become chalky in the hot sun, leaving it looking less than pretty.
Another limitation of steel siding is the fact that steel and metal in general does not insulate very well. You might have to have additional insulation installed underneath the steel siding to keep out the cold Colorado air as well as outside noises.
Wood and Engineered Wood Siding Limitations
Wood siding needs to be well maintained to look good. In the dry Colorado climate, it needs to be stained or painted at least every other year. Engineered wood siding does not need nearly as much maintenance but it still needs to be stained regularly.
If it is not taken care of correctly it can become susceptible to moisture damage. That could lead to swelling, warping, and rotting. The right maintenance and installation are crucial for both wood and engineered wood siding.
High quality engineered wood siding is beautiful and lasts many years. We can definitely recommend LP SmartSide engineered wood siding. It stands up well to the Colorado climate and we know how to install it properly.
Let Colorado Siding Repair Guide You
We are your trusted siding guide and our team from Colorado Siding Repair will help you determine which siding is right for you. Since we are a locally owned company, we know the Colorado climate well. That means we know which siding will perform best and which should be avoided.
The siding we recommend most is James Hardie fiber cement. It is extremely durable and stands up well to the Colorado climate. This siding needs very little maintenance and is very versatile. You have over 700 colors to choose from, in addition to various siding styles.
We are very proud that Colorado Siding Repair is a James Hardie Elite Preferred contractor. This distinction means that our team members know these premium products well. They install them following all best practices and specification.
For you as a homeowner this means that you can trust that we will install this siding right and in such a way that it will perform its best. Additionally, James Hardie offers industry leading warranties, with a 30-year product and 15-year finish warranty.
Additionally, fiber cement has a very high ROI. The initial installation cost might be slightly higher than with cheap siding but you will save in the long run because its durability and lack of maintenance required. You will immediately raise the curb appeal of your home as well.
In order for you to make an informed decision we always take the educational approach. Our team members will not use high-pressure sale tactics and will always be honest with you. We want what is best for you and offer financing options because of that.
Do not hesitate to call us with any of your questions. We are here for you and ready to help. Contact Colorado Siding Repair today to get a hassle-free quote. Together we will find the siding that is best for you and your home in the Colorado climate!
