How long cedar siding last

Not all insulated vinyl siding is created equal. The higher the insulated vinyl siding grade, the more colors, styles and options are available. However, the key driver in determining the price of the siding is still the size of the home.

Insulated vinyl siding is manufactured to withstand harsh weather conditions and will not buckle under impact of any sort very easily. The rigid foam laminated on the back of the panels allow insulated siding to be set symmetrically which helps the panels not cave in at the joints.

Much the same as traditional vinyl siding, insulated siding requires little if any maintenance and never needs painting. Fiber cement siding is made from cement, wood fiber cellulose , sand and other components. Fiber cement siding can be manufactured to have the realistic appearance of wood, stucco or masonry.

In appearance, fiber cement siding most often consists of overlapping horizontal boards imitating wooden siding, clapboard and shingles. Fiber cement siding is said to be more durable than wood, but does require some maintenance. It is termite resistant, water resistant, non-combustible and can be warranted for as long as 50 years. Some fiber cement siding may be required to be painted every years depending on the top coat applied.

Fiber cement is known as a sustainable or green alternative to traditional vinyl or aluminum siding. With its overall durability and low maintenance requirements fiber cement siding offers little if any waste. Also some manufacturers are now using fiber cement siding made from recycled materials. Is fiber cement siding appropriate for all climates? Manufacturers emphasize that fiber cement is appropriate for all climates. It is also prone to cracking and buckling over time, requiring replacement.

It also fails to mimic wood adequately, making it simultaneously less attractive than other materials and very homogenized if used extensively in a neighborhood. In cooler climates, vinyl may outlast cedar siding and requires only the occasional scrubbing to maintain.

It is difficult to paint, although you may purchase it in a variety of colors. Another advantage is that individual panels may be replaced without the need for removing neighboring panels. Similar to vinyl in appearance, aluminum siding is more cost-effective than cedar. Unlike cedar and other natural siding options, aluminum is not prone to moisture or insect damage. It is fastened securely, making it a good choice in locations with high winds. The primary drawbacks to aluminum are that it dents easily and provides poor insulation against water and heat loss.

Redbeacon offers a quick reference to the pros and cons of various siding options. General Pros and Cons of Cedar Wood Siding Being a natural wood product, cedar has many attractive features as well as drawbacks. Pros Cedar is highly attractive when stained and some varieties, such as white cedar, become increasingly aesthetically pleasing over time. Cons As is the case with other types of wood siding, cedar is flammable unless specially treated. Cedar must undergo maintenance every 3 to 5 years which should be configured into your budget over the long term.

Also considered in this cost was the process of power washing the home prior to staining. Although this could become a DIY project by the homeowner, it is often warned against because of the potential to incorrectly do the work and thus decrease the lifespan of the siding.

It is unsightly, but the cedar has not been damaged. When should you replace cedar siding? You will need to paint or stain cedar siding every years, and periodically repair or replace the shingles or panels. So be sure to factor in the long-term costs of cedar when making your decision. Is pressure washing bad for vinyl siding? The answer is: YES, pressure washing absolutely can damage vinyl siding if done incorrectly. Pressure washing is not good to use on any kind of soft surface, like window screens, for example.

Vinyl siding is a hard surface, but it's not as hard as, say, brick. Does cedar siding rot? Cedar sidings are tough and resistant to problems such as splitting, swelling and bending. It is naturally resistant to rot and moisture problems. However, like all other wood material, it is best to protect your cedar siding with a protective layer of finish so that it can last longer and look great.

How often does cedar siding need to be stained? Cedar treatments should last years High-quality paint or stain, properly applied, should last five to seven years, and as many as 10, depending on weather conditions and if you maintain the siding. However, you may need to reapply a clear-coat stain every two years. Is cedar siding a fire hazard?