Are you ready to update your home's exterior? In Michigan, the weather can be unforgiving, and finding the right siding that can withstand harsh winters, heavy rains, and beautiful summers is crucial. Without proper siding, you risk damage to your home's structure and a significant decrease in curb appeal.
We understand that making the right choice can be overwhelming. At Custom Built Design & Remodeling, we understand homeowners' challenges when choosing siding for their Michigan homes. With over 15 years of experience in the industry, we have seen firsthand how the right siding can transform a home's appearance and durability.
In this article, you'll learn about the top eight siding options for Michigan homes, their benefits, and why they might be the perfect fit for your property:
- Vinyl Siding
- Fiber Cement Siding
- Wood Siding
- Engineered Wood Siding
- Brick Siding
- Stone Veneer Siding
- Aluminum Siding
- Composite Siding
1. Vinyl Siding
Vinyl siding is a popular choice due to its affordability and low maintenance. It resists moisture and won't rot, making it ideal for Michigan's humid summers and cold winters. Vinyl siding also comes in a wide variety of colors and styles, allowing you to customize the look of your home without compromising on durability.
Let’s explore a few of the pros and cons of vinyl siding:
Pros:
- Durability: Withstands harsh weather conditions.
- Maintenance: Easy to clean and requires little upkeep.
- Variety: Available in many colors and styles to integrate with your architecture and roofing material.
Cons:
- Fading: Can fade over time when exposed to direct sunlight.
- Insulation: Provides less insulation compared to other materials.
- Appearance: May not offer the same high-end look as natural materials.
2. Fiber Cement Siding
PC: The Spruce
Fiber cement siding offers the look of wood without the high maintenance. It's fire-resistant and can withstand extreme weather conditions, making it an excellent choice for Michigan homes. Additionally, fiber cement is resistant to pests and does not warp or rot, ensuring long-term durability.
Here are the high-level pros and cons of fiber cement siding for your Michigan home:
Pros:
- Resistance: Resists fire, pests, and rot.
- Longevity: Extremely durable and long-lasting.
- Aesthetic: Mimics the look of wood, stucco, or masonry.
- Low Maintenance: Requires less upkeep compared to natural wood.
- Woodpecker-Resistant: Get the look of wood without pesky woodpeckers putting holes in your cedar siding.
Cons:
- Installation: More complex to install, requiring professional expertise.
- Weight: Heavier than other siding options, which may require reinforced support.
- More Expensive: Labor and material costs are on the higher end of the spectrum compared to other options.
3. Wood Siding
Wood siding provides a classic and timeless look. While it requires more maintenance, its natural beauty is unmatched. Wood siding can be painted or stained in various colors, offering great flexibility in terms of design and customization.
Let’s take a look at the pros and cons of wood siding:
Pros:
- Appearance: Natural, warm, and timeless.
- Eco-Friendly: Sustainable and biodegradable.
- Insulation: Provides good insulation properties.
- Customization: Can be painted or stained in various colors.
Cons:
- Durability: Prone to rot, pests, and warping.
- Maintenance: Requires regular painting or staining.
4. Engineered Wood Siding
PC: Angi
Engineered wood siding combines the aesthetic appeal of wood with enhanced durability and resistance to the elements. It is made from wood fibers and resins, offering the look of real wood without the high maintenance.
Explore the pros and cons of engineered wood siding below:
Pros:
- Aesthetic: Maintains the natural look of wood.
- Maintenance: Requires less upkeep than traditional wood siding.
- Durability: More resistant to moisture and pests than traditional wood.
Cons:
- Environmental Impact: Uses resins and chemicals in production.
- Appearance: May not have the same authentic look as real wood.
- Repair: Damage may be harder to repair compared to natural wood.
5. Brick Siding
Brick siding is known for its durability and classic look. It offers excellent insulation and is very low maintenance. Brick can last for decades and provides a timeless aesthetic that adds significant curb appeal to any home.
Here are the pros and cons of installing brick siding:
Pros:
- Fire Resistance: Highly resistant to fire damage.
- Aesthetic: Timeless and adds significant curb appeal.
- Longevity: Can last for decades with minimal maintenance.
- Thermal and Sound Insulation: Provides excellent thermal insulation and sound barrier.
Cons:
- Weight: Heavier, requiring a strong foundation.
- Installation: More labor-intensive and time-consuming to install.
- Cost: Material and labor costs will be higher than other options.
6. Stone Veneer Siding
Stone veneer siding provides the luxurious look of natural stone at a fraction of the cost. Compared to full stone construction, it's lightweight and easier to install, making it a practical yet stylish option.
Let’s explore the pros and cons of stone veneer siding below:
Pros:
- Installation: Easier and quicker to install.
- Appearance: Mimics the look of natural stone.
- Weight: Lighter than natural stone, reducing structural requirements.
Cons:
- Durability: Less durable than natural stone.
- Repair: Can be challenging to repair if damaged.
- Maintenance: Requires periodic cleaning to maintain appearance.
7. Aluminum Siding
PC: Urban Exteriors
Aluminum siding is lightweight, durable, and resistant to rust and corrosion. It's a good option for areas with extreme weather and offers a sleek, modern appearance.
Explore the pros and cons of aluminum siding below:
Pros:
- Durability: Resists rust and corrosion.
- Maintenance: Requires minimal upkeep.
- Recyclable: Eco-friendly as it can be recycled.
- Weather Resistant: Withstands harsh weather conditions.
Cons:
- Noise: Can be noisy during heavy rain or hail.
- Insulation: Provides less insulation compared to other options.
- Appearance: May dent or scratch more easily than other materials.
8. Composite Siding
Composite siding is made from a blend of materials, offering enhanced durability and low maintenance. It's designed to mimic natural wood and provides excellent resistance to weather and pests.
Here are the pros and cons of composite siding:
Pros:
- Maintenance: Requires little upkeep.
- Appearance: Looks like natural wood.
- Eco-Friendly: Often made from recycled materials.
- Durability: Resistant to rot, pests, and weather damage.
Cons:
- Repair: Can be difficult to repair if damaged.
- Installation: May require professional installation.
- Cost: Can be more expensive than traditional wood.
Next Steps to Remodeling Your Home Exterior’s Siding
Choosing the right siding for your Michigan home is essential to protect it from harsh weather and maintain its curb appeal. Without the proper siding, you risk frequent repairs and a decrease in your home's value.
By exploring these top eight siding options, you now better understand what materials can best withstand Michigan's climate while enhancing your home's aesthetic appeal.
At Custom Built Design & Remodeling, we have over 15 years of experience helping homeowners select and install the perfect siding for their homes. We understand the unique challenges Michigan homeowners face and are dedicated to providing top-quality solutions that stand the test of time.
Ready to upgrade your home's exterior? Contact our team at Custom Built Design & Remodeling to schedule a consultation. Let us help you choose the best siding option for your home and ensure a high-quality installation that will last for years to come.
Now that you know more about the top siding options for your Michigan home, let’s explore the first step of the Custom Built Proven Process, how much composite decks cost, and the projects that can increase the resale value of your home:
- What is a Discovery Call with Custom Built? - This article details what your first call with Custom Built looks like as you start planning your remodel.
- How Much Do Composite Decks Cost in Lansing, Michigan? - An overview of how much your Lansing composite deck will cost and the factors that will influence your price.
- 5 Remodeling Projects That Can Increase Resale Value - A high-level overview of the various remodeling projects that will increase your home’s resale value, curb appeal, and return on investment.
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