Buying a home is one of the biggest investments most people will ever make, so it’s a serious decision and one that comes with a lot of questions. The team at Singletary Construction can answer those questions for you.
Question: What are the best roofing and siding choices for my home?
Answer: When building a new home, one of the most exciting stages is exploring the array of decorative options available to you. However, even for homeowners in existing homes, as your dwelling matures and design trends evolve, you’ll need to consider refreshing your home’s finishes to uphold its market appeal, should you choose to sell in the future. We’ll break this discussion into two parts. Today we’ll cover exterior finishes. Stay tuned for more information about interior finishes!
Roofing
Asphalt shingles: Asphalt shingles are the most popular option due to their affordability, ease of installation, and variety of colors and styles but they have a shorter lifespan – typically around 15-30 years – and can be susceptible to damage from severe weather.
Metal roofing: Metal roofing can last 40-70 years or more and reflects heat effectively, helping to reduce energy costs. However, upfront costs are considerably higher than asphalt shingles, and improper installation may lead to noise issues.
Clay or concrete tiles: Clay or concrete tiles provide excellent durability, lasting 50 years or more and offer superior thermal performance. However, they are a bit more expensive and heavier than other roofing materials, requiring a reinforced roof structure.
Siding, brick and stucco
Vinyl siding: Vinyl siding is a popular choice due to its affordability and low maintenance coupled with durability and resistance to fading from UV exposure. With the wide variety of colors and styles, your design options are virtually limitless!
Brick: Brick offers natural insulation from the elements, requires minimal maintenance and can last for decades without losing its aesthetic appeal. However, it’s considerably more labor intensive to install and repairs may be challenging due to the need to match existing brickwork.
Stucco: Stucco is a versatile material known for its ability to create a seamless, customizable finish. Stucco is low maintenance and can withstand harsh weather conditions, but improper installation or lack of maintenance may lead to cracking or moisture problems over time.
Fiber cement siding: Fiber cement siding, such as Hardie board, is made from a mixture of cement, sand, and cellulose fibers, offering the look of traditional wood siding with superior durability and performance. It comes in a variety of textures and finishes but it can be heavier and more expensive than other siding materials.
When selecting finishes for your home, you should strike a balance between aesthetic appeal and practical considerations such as initial cost, maintenance needs, and longevity.