Ditch The Cookie-Cutter Exterior: The Siding That Stands Out And Boosts Curb Appeal

Vinyl siding is very popular. It's easy to look after, durable, and comparatively inexpensive. However, while it's available in a wide range of colors, there are some disadvantages to vinyl siding, not least of which is its somewhat bland appearance. If you'd rather have something that stands out and boosts curb appeal, wood-look cladding is worth a closer look.

Real wood is one of numerous different types of house siding to consider, but although it can add a warmth and richness to your home, it isn't the easiest option to live with. It takes a lot of looking after and can still be prone to insect attacks and eventual degradation. Plus, it can also be a fire hazard.

Wood-look siding can be made different material. Stamped aluminum has a real-wood look, but it does have that metal clang to it when bumped into. Alternatives include fiber cement (made by mixing cement and plant fibers) or eco-friendly composites, some of which can even be worked much like wood. Benefits vary a little depending on the material type, but in general you get siding that looks and feels like wood, has durability in all weathers, is unaffected by the bugs that usually attack wood, and is fire-resistant.

Wood-look siding comes in a wide variety of shades, so there's almost certainly something that will match the style of your home while adding warmth and character. Some companies offer matching fencing and even porch boards and decking so you can create an attractive, cohesive, and long-lasting look all around your home.

Vinyl siding is perhaps the most budget-friendly solution, so it stands to reason you can expect to pay more for wood-look alternatives. With several different materials to choose from, it's difficult to be precise, but $7 to $15 per square foot is a ballpark figure. Installation may also have its challenges. Fiber cement in particular is difficult to work with, requiring special cutting blades and protective breathing equipment. Other materials have their own demands, and it's vital to follow manufacturer guidelines when fitting.

Nevertheless, wood-look siding has many advantages and adds an extra dimension to your home's exterior that makes it stand out from your cookie-cutter neighbors. If you've noticed signs that your existing siding is getting old, it's an option that is well worth investigating.