When it comes buying supplies for our home’s exterior, we have much more to think about than costs, warranties, and styles. One of the most important factors to consider is your area’s climate. In subtropical areas like Florida, we experience dynamic weather that includes heat and humidity, rain, and even hurricanes, so you’ll need siding well suited for whatever nature brings you.

Stucco

Available in both natural and synthetic forms, stucco is the best option for homeowners who live in the dry California climate. Stucco is inexpensive, and can look great with any style, from modern and contemporary to spanish colonial. Natural stucco can “breathe” air and moisture and lasts decades with little maintenance. Stucco’s suitability for California’s dry climate makes it one of our favorite siding materials.

Vinyl

Vinyl is the most popular and least expensive siding materials. It’s well suited for humid areas due to its resistance to water absorption and it also stands up to heat and wind effectively. However, vinyl can fade in direct sunlight, which is an important factor to consider in the more sunny areas of California.

High winds can also be a problem for vinyl siding, but it has an alternative. Insulated vinyl is a good option in high wind areas due to increased durability. Insulated vinyl can also make your home more energy efficient and save you money on your cooling bill.

Fiber Cement

Fiber cement is a durable mixture of cement, sand, and wood pulp. The strength of this combination make fiber cement a durable choice that holds up well in almost any weather or environment. Fiber cement siding is resistant to rot and insects, as well as UV light, salt, and sand. It’s a heavy and stiff material, making it ideal in areas prone to storms and high winds.

Downsides to fiber cement siding are few and minor; If your home has areas with frequent shade, algae or mildew might grow, but a power wash can easily fix this. A more rare issue is surface cracks that can let in moisture, you’ll want to check somewhat regularly for damage. The pros of fiber cement siding greatly outweigh the cons, making it another one of our favorite choices.

Wood

Wood siding is often considered more traditional and although it looks beautiful, it’s one of the less durable materials you can choose to side your home. Wood tends to be less resistant to the elements, and as a result takes much more maintenance than other products. Wood is very susceptible to rot, mildew, and insect damage, and it expands and contracts with temperature fluctuations. This can cause cracking and splitting, making it important to frequently inspect for damage. If you live in a coastal area, your wood’s finish can also be worn down by the salt. Despite the cons, wood can still be a great choice if you live in a dry area with little temperature fluctuation.

Brick or Stone

Brick or stone siding are another traditional option, but one that is slightly more durable. Brick and stone are resistant to rot, insects, and UV rays, although if you’re in a shady area they may develop moss and mildew. If you live in a hot and sunny area, brick and stone will even keep you cool in the summer. If you live at the coast, stone and brick siding won’t bat an eye at the salt and wind. Like fiber cement, temperature changes can cause cracks, so make sure to keep an eye out for any damage.

Metal

Steel or aluminum siding is strong against the weather, making it particularly good in areas prone to high winds and storms. Aluminum is even popular on the coast because sea salt won’t cause it to rust. However, metal’s finish can fade in constant sunlight, which is a big con in more sunny areas. Thinner materials can be damaged by hail, but that’s not as much of an issue in California. Many homeowners don’t like the urban, industrial look of metal, but its reliable durability makes it a popular material.

Choosing the right material for siding is important for the California area, but our list should have you on the right track. Divine Home Remodeling is here for you when you feel that your home’s siding is due for an upgrade, so give us a call today for a free quote.