Montana Siding is the protective material attached to the outside walls of homes and other buildings. It protects against sunlight, rain/snow, heat, cold, and other weather conditions.
There are many different types of siding, each with its benefits and drawbacks. Some of the most popular options include wood, fiber cement, and metal.
Siding is an essential home improvement project that adds value to your house and helps keep it protected from moisture, pests, and weather. While many factors affect the siding cost, it can range from $2 to $7 per square foot, depending on the material and installation. You can use our cost calculator to get a customized estimate based on your location and project size.
The most popular type of siding is vinyl, which is extremely durable and requires little maintenance. It’s available in a variety of colors and styles, so you can choose the perfect look for your home. This type of siding also holds up well against the cold, which makes it a great option for northern states. Another durable option is fiber cement siding, which combines the best of wood and vinyl. It’s a great choice for homeowners who want to avoid the high cost of wood and the maintenance needed for traditional wood siding.
If you’re looking for a more natural, rustic look, consider cedar clapboard or shakes. These materials are more expensive than vinyl or aluminum siding, but they add a classic style to your home. Cedar is also a good choice for coastal regions, as it resists rot and mold caused by excess moisture.
You’ll also need to factor in labor costs when estimating the cost of siding. This includes the cost of removing and disposing of old siding, as well as any necessary repairs to the structure. In addition, you’ll need to pay for a permit and inspection fee for your project.
To calculate the cost of siding, start by measuring the square footage of your home’s exterior walls. Take measurements of each wall’s height and width, then divide by 2 to determine the number of square feet. Next, measure the square footage of any soffit areas and add those to the total number of square feet.
When comparing siding prices, remember that these estimates are for basic work performed in easily serviceable conditions by qualified trade professionals using popular, in stock products commonly available at home improvement retailers. Work that is complex, difficult to reach or requires specialized skills, premium materials or project supervision will result in higher costs.
Durability
Siding is designed to protect houses from the elements, and modern materials are engineered to withstand harsh weather conditions without compromising appearance. In addition to being durable, these new sidings can also protect buildings from moisture infiltration, rot and insect damage. They are available in a wide range of colors and styles, and some have the ability to mimic traditional cladding.
Durability is also determined by the way in which the siding is maintained. For instance, steel siding requires a power washing annually to avoid rust, while wood needs regular painting to prevent mold and mildew growth. In some cases, the presence of mold or mildew can lead to a loss of structural integrity, so it is important to address the issue promptly.
Many people choose vinyl siding for its durability and affordability, but it can fade over time in sunny climates. It can also crack in extreme temperatures and is not a good choice for humid regions. To reduce the likelihood of these problems, homeowners should use a high-quality product and hire professional installers.
Another type of durable siding is fiber cement, which can be designed to mimic the look of wood, stucco or masonry. It is made from a mixture of cement, sand and cellulose fibers, and it can be tinted to match the color of other cladding materials. This material is resistant to rot and fire, and it can be made in different textures to match various architectural styles.
When choosing a siding material, it is important to take into account its durability, cost and energy consumption. Wood, for example, is a highly renewable resource but can rot or deteriorate if not properly maintained. It is also energy intensive to produce, while masonry can last for decades.
It is also essential to carefully calculate the amount of siding needed for a house. This can be done by using a measuring tape to measure the wall surface area. This should be done around the entire house, including gable walls, which are triangular and meet the roof’s edge. The calculation can then be made by determining the area of a triangle, which is found by multiplying the base and height of the wall. The results should be accurate enough to avoid a surplus of material that can result in waste and costly re-orders.
Aesthetics
Siding plays a vital role in both the structural integrity and aesthetic beauty of a home. It protects against environmental elements while enhancing indoor temperatures and contributing to energy efficiency. It also reflects the homeowner’s taste and style preferences, making it an important component of the architectural heritage. For historical homes, the right siding can preserve their aesthetics while maintaining functionality and efficiency.
The aesthetics of siding are determined by a variety of factors, including color, texture, and material combinations. The prevailing architectural style and the color of the home’s surrounding landscape determines whether the siding will blend in or stand out. In addition, homeowners can choose from a range of textures and finishes to create their desired visual effect. For example, smooth surfaces can evoke a modern aesthetic, while textured profiles offer a rustic or traditional appearance.
In addition to the aesthetics of siding, the material and design must be suitable for the local climate. A siding that fails to meet the challenges of a particular climate can increase maintenance and repair costs. For instance, wood siding may require regular painting or staining to prevent moisture and pests from damaging the surface. In contrast, vinyl or fiber cement siding is resistant to fire, moisture, and rot, making them an ideal choice for homeowners who prioritize durability.
Many homeowners make the mistake of choosing siding based solely on initial cost or appearance, disregarding practicality and climate suitability. This can lead to premature fading or damage, which can overshadow the initial savings and aesthetic appeal of certain materials. To avoid this, it is recommended that homeowners consult with experts to ensure their siding meets both their personal preferences and practical needs.
The beauty and resilience of a siding depend on the quality of its installation. Skilled contractors can enhance the material’s weather resistance and insulation properties, ensuring that it fits properly and is free from cracks or other flaws. They can also customize the aesthetics of a siding, blending it with other exterior features such as gables or towers. They can even use vertical siding to create a sense of height for the home.
Maintenance
Siding is not only a beautiful addition to the exterior of your home, but it is also a protective barrier against weathering and the elements. Different types of siding require varying maintenance approaches, but regular cleaning and inspections are essential to maintaining your home’s appearance and protecting its value.
Accurate measurements are crucial to a successful siding installation project. The first step is to calculate the total wall surface area, including windows and doors. This can be done by measuring the wall surface using a tape measure and breaking it down into standard shapes, such as squares and rectangles. The total wall area is then calculated by adding the areas of each shape. If you are unsure of how to calculate an area, contact a professional for assistance.
A good maintenance plan will help keep your siding looking and functioning at its best for as long as possible. Regular cleaning, inspections, and repairs will prevent the need for replacement or additional damage. Developing a schedule for routine cleaning, inspections, and maintenance will help you stay on top of tasks and reduce the risk of missed appointments.
If you have wood siding, it’s important to regularly clean it to prevent dirt and mildew build-up. You can use a mixture of water (7 parts) and bleach (3 parts), or for a more natural approach, water and white vinegar. Be sure to wear protective eyewear and gloves when using harsh chemicals.
In the event that your wood siding becomes damaged, it’s important to repair it promptly to prevent moisture infiltration. This can lead to rot and decay, which may result in costly repairs or even structural damage to the house. To avoid this, choose cladding such as our Thermally Modified Wood Collection that is naturally rot resistant. In addition, you should add a clear wood sealant every 5-10 years to further protect the siding from moisture.
Fiber cement and stucco siding are designed to be mold- and rot-resistant, but they can be vulnerable to moisture infiltration if not properly sealed. You should use a water and mild detergent wash or a low-pressure power washer to clean the surfaces. Be careful not to use a high-pressure setting, which could damage the stucco and cause it to chip or crack.