Decks
Siding and Trim: The Deciding Factors.
When choosing house siding and trim for building or remodeling your home, it’s important to understand the materials. Without a doubt, exterior wood siding is the most popular choice for siding and trim in America, and there are several varieties from which to choose. It’s important to make an informed choice and so avoid costly mistakes. One of the great benefits of building a new home is how many choices you get to make. Whether you’re working with an architect or a builder, the options are endless: from choosing an architectural style, or the materials you express your own individuality.
Geography also comes into play, since certain materials can be more readily available in a regional market—or more suited for use in that area of the country.
Of course, if you’ve decided to remodel your existing home, or have bought a home you wish to change to suit your tastes, choosing new siding and trim can be an easy way to update the look of your home. It’s important to understand the choices of materials available, as well as the suitability for the project.
Spruce: An East Coast Favorite.
Spruce is a member of the pine family, and is readily available in the East Coast. It’s a softwood and a relatively inexpensive choice for siding. It’s often used for board siding, like clapboard, but it does require maintenance. It’s not naturally rot resistant so it’s important to seal the wood.
Pine: A Traditional Favorite Among Builders.
Pine is also a softwood, and less expensive than other species. It’s very easy to paint or stain, and is preferred by builders for horizontal siding. Unfortunately, it’s difficult to find pine in long lengths, especially without knots, which can increase the budget of a project. It doesn’t resist rot naturally, so it must be sealed and maintained on a regular basis.
Cedar Delivers Character and Longevity.
Cedar is a popular choice for many reasons. It is straight, has a great grain and dimensionally stable. It resists splitting and swelling, and has less cupping and splitting. It’s ideal for applying stain. Cedar is naturally resistant to insects and moisture than pine, but still must be treated and maintained to avoid damage and decay. However, for the money, cedar is a wise choice.
Redwood: Beautiful in Any Climate.
Redwood siding and trim is the traditional favorite, offering rich texture, profile and character. It’s ideal in any climate, but since it’s grown in the West, it can be difficult to get in other regions, or more expensive. Redwood resists shrinking, and absorbs and retains its finish very well. It’s easier to maintain than other wood siding, as well. Redwood also naturally resists insects, which is a real benefit to homeowners.
Fir: An Economical Siding Option.
Fir is a very economical choice for siding, and is very easy to work with. It’s available in longer lengths than other woods, is easy to cut and install, and easy to finish, too. It’s also a versatile choice, since it can be easily milled to many patterns. Since it’s milled in the West, it’s not as readily available on the East Coast.