Home Siding

Siding

A home’s siding protects it against the elements, pests, and other hazards. While vinyl siding is the most common, homeowners can choose from plenty of other options. Some siding is only suitable for homes located in specific regions, like stucco only working well in warmer climates. 

The Basics of Siding

This article looks at the different types of siding available and provides additional resources for those wanting to learn more about siding maintenance and care. 

  • Vinyl siding: Vinyl siding is inexpensive, easy to install, reliable, and has lots of variety, making it one of the most popular options in the United States. While there is plenty to love about vinyl siding, it’s not perfect and is one of the least durable options available. 
  • Stucco siding: Stucco is a combination of portland cement, lime, sand, and water. Once mixed and allowed to dry, this combination of materials creates a strong, insulating siding. Stucco also has a distinct look, making it a popular aesthetic choice. However, stucco isn’t ideal for areas with extremely cold winters or large amounts of rainfall, making it more common in Western states.
  • Wood siding: More durable than vinyl siding and possessing a natural, pleasing look to boot, wood siding has been growing in popularity. This type of siding is extremely resistant to wear and tear and can be painted or revarnished at any time. The only major downsides to this siding are its cost and maintenance level, which are much higher than other types of siding.
  • Metal siding: This siding has high endurance, low cost, requires little maintenance, and is environmentally friendly. Unfortunately, metal siding can rust in areas with large amounts of rain. 

Siding is an invaluable layer for protecting your home; it keeps pests away, protects your walls from the weather, and provides insulation for the entire house. If you’re interested in reading more about siding or want to brush up on good maintenance and care practices, check out the articles below. 

Replacing water damaged hardboard siding with durable fiber cement siding.

How to Replace Damaged Hardboard Siding with Fiber Cement

Water from rain or sprinklers can damage hardboard siding over time, causing it to rot or deteriorate. Watch this video to see how to go about replacing damaged hardboard siding with more durable fiber cement.
Ask Danny

Dealing with Asbestos Siding: Cover Over or Remove?

Frank asks, “I plan to install vinyl siding on a house that has asbestos siding. Should I remove the asbestos siding or side over it?”

While asbestos siding is often sided over, removal by a certified asbestos abatement contractor is the best option. Read on to find out more.
Nailing up fiber cement siding on an exterior wall

How to Install Fiber Cement Siding

Installing fiber cement siding is easier than you might think, though there are some important differences from traditional wood siding.
Removing asbestos siding on a house.

How to Remove and Dispose of Asbestos Siding and Roofing

The hard, brittle, siding and roofing installed on many homes before 1980 often contained asbestos. It should be tested before being disturbed or removed, and safety precautions taken if asbestos is found. Watch this video to find out more.
Ask Danny

How to Repair Holes in Vinyl Siding

Tom asks, “How can you repair holes in vinyl siding caused by storm damage?”

While vinyl siding is durable, it can sustain damage from extreme weather. Read on to find out how to repair damaged siding.
Danny Lipford replacing hardboard siding with fiber cement.

Replacing Rotten Hardboard Siding on Your Home

Hardboard lap siding can deteriorate over time due to exposure to water. Watch this video to find out how to remove rotten hardboard siding, and replace it with more durable fiber cement siding.
Replacing wood siding on a house.

How to Replace Damaged Wood Lap Siding

Find out how to remove damaged or rotten wood lap siding, and install new wood siding to replace it. Watch this video to find out more.
Danny Lipford and Joe Truini installing paneling on wall.

How to Hide Seams When Installing Paneling

Watch this video for a tip on how to keep drywall from showing through the seams between sheets of paneling when installing paneling in a room.
Raised bed garden made from pressure treated lumber

Can Fiber Cement Siding Be Used for Raised Bed Gardens?

Ernie asks, “Can fiber cement siding, such as HardiePlank, be used to make raised beds for a garden?”

Fiber cement siding isn’t a good choice for a raised bed, since it’s not rated for contract with the ground. Read on to find out more.