Curb appeal, durability, or the latest building trends.
These are all things you might consider if you’re looking into getting new siding on your house. But not all siding is created equal. Whether it’s vinyl, wood, or newer SmartSide, you’re faced with a lot of options for what you want to wrap your house with. And we have some pros and cons for each.
Brick
Pros: Brick offers substantial aesthetic appeal paired with great durability. It requires minimal maintenance and will last a very long time. Brick is also resistant to fire and won’t mold or rot over time.
Cons: There is a lot involved in putting brick on your house. Masonry veneer is non-structural so builders/masons must tie it to the building structure to prevent movement under weather and natural ground shifting. Brick is also generally more expensive than other siding options. And color options are usually limited for brick.
Synthetic Stone
Pros: Synthetic stone is made from a mixture of sand and cement and can mimic virtually and type of stone siding. Synthetic stone is rarely used to cover an entire home but is great for accent walls and columns. It has the look and feel of real stone but is a fraction of the cost. Consider pairing synthetic stone with other siding options for great curb appeal.
Cons: Although cheaper than real brick or stone, synthetic stone is still expensive. And because concrete is involved in its composition, it’s less durable than real stone.
Vinyl
Pros: Vinyl siding is relatively inexpensive and versatile. It’s easy to handle which results in a quick install and cheaper labor costs. Modern vinyl is available in a variety of textures and colors and can even mimic real wood and stone.
Cons: Although vinyl is mostly maintenance free, it does require some work to keep clean as mold and grime can build up. Vinyl also is susceptible to weather damage like hail and ice. Vinyl also requires overlapping during install which results in visual seams.