Advantages And Disadvantages of Wood Siding
When it comes to exterior home siding, wood is often considered one of the most beloved options. With its classic rustic charm and durability, wood siding adds character to a home’s overall appearance. From cedar shingles, wooden bevel clapboard, board-and-batten panels, and more, there are many possibilities for homeowners looking to update the look of their homes. However, like any other material used in construction or renovation projects, both benefits and drawbacks are associated with using wood as your druthers for exterior siding.
In this blog post, we’ll discuss these advantages and disadvantages – so you can decide whether investing in natural materials is right for your own property!
What is Wood Siding
Wood siding is a common method of home exterior cladding. It is often made from certified woods like cedar or pine and can be found in different textures and colors to suit any style preference. It provides superior protection against wind and water and offers superior sound absorption compared to other exterior construction materials.
Advantages Of Wood Siding
· It is beautiful
Wood siding is one of the most timeless and beautiful ways to upgrade a home or building. Its unique grain and intricate designs can add instant visual appeal while significantly improving the overall aesthetic of any structure. Its classic style is often seen on historic homes, but it has seen a resurgence in recent years as more people appreciate its appeal.
· It is easy to maintain
Wood siding has consistently been a popular choice for homeowners due to its classic, timeless look and relatively low maintenance. While other common siding types, such as vinyl or aluminum, may be cheaper upfront, they tend to require more upkeep throughout the years. It requires regular cleaning and caulking every few years, which is fairly simple to do yourself, saving you money on contractor fees. It can also be painted to match whatever aesthetic you desire.
It Is Environmentally Friendly
Compared to many other siding options, wood siding is natural and far more biodegradable than most plastics or cement-based materials, so it doesn’t leave lasting waste on our planet. Additionally, it has superior insulation values, which can help with energy costs in the long run.
· it is durable
Wood siding is an excellent choice for those looking for maximum durability for their home. It is naturally tough, and when combined with other treatments such as stain or paint, it can happily stand up to many years of wear and tear. Even better, if you take the time to maintain your siding properly, it can look just as good in twenty years as it does when first installed. All in all, wood siding offers unbeatable protection and reliability, making it a great option for any discerning property owner.
Disadvantages of Wood Siding
· It is susceptible to insect attacks
Wood siding is a popular choice for many homeowners, but what they may not realize is that wood is susceptible to insect attacks. Termites, wood-boring beetles, and carpenter ants are all attracted to vulnerable wood siding, as it provides them with the perfect climate for nesting and feeding. The problem is that once these insects decide to take up residence in your home, they can cause severe structural damage if left untreated.
· High cost
Installing wood siding costs more than other popular exterior materials like vinyl, brick, or stone. Generally speaking, wood siding costs more upfront due to the often required on-site custom cutting and installation. It also costs more labor to install, as most professionals will tell you that wood can be an additional challenge compared to simpler materials. And finally, further maintenance needs like refinishing or painting must occur periodically – costing even more money over time to keep your siding looking its best.
· Fire can be a problem
Wood siding can pose a serious risk when it comes to fire. Wood siding is grained and textured, giving combustible material extra places to grab onto and helping the fire grow quickly. When this happens, the burning embers can then spread further into the building, creating a much larger problem than if another material had been used on the exterior of your home.
Top 4 Choices For Wood Siding
1. Cedarwood
Cedarwood is an excellent choice for siding due to its natural resistance to rot and decay. Its strength and durability make it the perfect material to guard against harsh weather conditions like torrential rainfall or extreme temperatures. Additionally, its attractive reddish-brown tone makes it a favorite among homeowners looking for a rustic aesthetic. As a bonus, cedarwood can last over 30 years if properly maintained with regular treatments of oil or stain!
2. Fir wood
Fir wood siding is rapidly becoming among the most popular choices due to its many unique qualities. It is lightweight yet strong and resilient, making it a great choice for even high-traffic areas. Additionally, fir wood has an attractive grain and can come in clear and knotty grades – perfect for any home style! Its cutability makes for easy installation, plus it can easily be painted if you prefer to change the look of your siding from time to time. All that said, given its versatility and affordability, fir wood is a top choice for finding out what type of siding to use for your home.
3. Pine wood
Pine wood is known for its classic rustic charm and a unique warmth that adds structure and character to any home, while the soft colors of pine make it very simple to coordinate with other materials. It also comes at an affordable price, making it a great choice for those working on a budget.
· Redwood
It has a unique grain pattern that adds depth to each piece, making it incredibly striking on any home. Its aesthetic appeal is further increased by its red hue, allowing homeowners in need of siding that stands out with a touch of colour to appreciate its beauty.
Wrapping Up
Wood siding is a great choice for many reasons. It is durable, natural, and has a classic look that never goes out of style. However, it does have some disadvantages. It can be expensive and require more maintenance than other types of siding. If you are considering wood siding for your home or business, contact us at Longhouse Cedar. We specialize in custom-cut forest products and would be happy to help you choose the best option.