The weather in Central Ohio can range from extremely cold in winter to scorching hot in summer. These constant temperature fluctuations can cause severe damage to your siding. If your home’s siding has begun to warp or crack, it could be time for a replacement. To avoid costly siding replacements every few years, it’s essential to choose the right siding material to protect your Ohio home from extreme heat and cold for years to come. Some great options to consider are vinyl and fiber cement siding.
1. Vinyl Siding
Vinyl siding is made of PVC resins which resemble other materials such as wood. Modern vinyl siding options come in a variety of color choices and profiles to suit many exterior décors. You can find vinyl siding materials that look just like Victorian scallops or cedar shakes.
Generally, vinyl is the most popular choice for Ohio homeowners since it’s durable and can last for years when appropriately treated. It matches many home designs and is relatively inexpensive. Vinyl siding also comes in various colors, so you won’t have to repaint it or worry about the paint chipping or peeling down the line. Besides, vinyl is easy to clean with soap and water and offers low maintenance.
Unfortunately, vinyl siding can warp if it isn’t installed correctly. It will also crack upon impact in cold weather. Replacing worn or damaged siding requires removing an entire section of it, which is often time-consuming and expensive.
Pros of Vinyl Siding
- Zero maintenance
- Excellent immunity to moisture and mold damage
- A lot of styles and colors to choose from
- It is available in wood-grain surface texture
- Looks great for years
- Sheds moisture instead of absorbing it
Cons of Vinyl Siding
- Warps when improperly installed
- Cracks upon impact in cold weather
2. Fiber Cement Siding
Fiber cement is a durable composite siding material made from cellulose fibers, cement, and sand. It is a durable and robust siding material which works well in Central Ohio weather. Though fiber cement is a lot heavier than vinyl and other siding materials, it offers many key benefits that make it a worthy investment.
Additionally, fiber siding looks like real wood and is highly resistant to insects, water, and fire. It withstands cold weather and is an excellent source of insulation for your home during winter. When pre-painted, it won’t need repainting for several years.
However, fiber siding is a bit more expensive than vinyl siding is also quite heavy, making it difficult to install than wood or vinyl.
Pros of Fiber Cement Siding
- Extremely strong and durable
- Multiple design options
- Versatile
- Mimics real wood
Cons of Fiber Cement Siding
- A little more costly
- Heavier and more difficult to install
How to Choose the Right Siding
Ultimately, the best siding material for your home will depend on your budget, sense of aesthetics, and the effort you’re willing to put into maintenance. For Central Ohio weather, siding should withstand colder temperatures without warping or cracking and be a good source of insulation. Since some materials work better than others, Allstate Exteriors & Restoration can help you choose the right option for your Central Ohio home. Contact us today for a free consultation!
