Siding that’s in good condition is a key structural component of your home that helps protect the interior from the elements. Having quality siding that’s expertly installed also provides a finishing touch that enhances your home’s curb appeal and value.

If your siding is deteriorating due to poor installation or age, it’s time to consider your replacement options. Today, there are two popular types of home cladding offered by Des Moines siding contractors: vinyl and fiber cement board. Both are available in a range of profiles, textures, and colors, and each offers a different price point and benefits.

Vinyl Siding

Vinyl siding is formed from layers of polyvinyl chloride (PVC) plastic, and it’s designed to simulate the look and texture of wood grain. You can choose from several panel styles including horizontal clapboard, vertical “board and batten,” cedar shakes, and scalloped or “fish scale” shingles.

Vinyl is available in an array of colors and comes in different thickness grades, and thicker, more rigid products cost more. Many vinyl siding manufacturers now offer insulated panels as well to improve the product’s R-value.
Pros and cons of vinyl: This type of cladding is the your least expensive option. Investing in a thicker, quality product from a reputable manufacturer like Alside or CertainTeed and having it installed by an experienced professional can help ensure that it performs well. A major downside is that the weather extremes here in Iowa can make vinyl brittle and more prone to damage and fading over time.

Fiber Cement Siding

Fiber cement siding is formed from a mixture of Portland cement, sand and cellulose fibers. This durable material replicates the look of real wood beautifully and it’s available in different styles including lap plank, vertical board and “cedar” shingle. Industry-leading manufacturers like James Hardie offer their products primed or factory-painted in a range of distinctive colors with a UV color protectant for superior fade resistance.
Pros and cons of fiber cement: This heavy-weight cladding is a more expensive siding option than vinyl, but factors such as its resistance to fire, rotting, splitting, warping and swelling, and its lengthy manufacturer’s warranty make it a worthwhile investment. Part of the extra expense is the cost of installation: the material is heavy, and it should only be installed by a skilled, manufacturer-certified contractor.

If you need the services of an expert Des Moines siding contractor, contact us today at VanWeelden Company!

Read: How to Pick the Best Roofing Contractor