Choosing siding for your Rapid City home is just as important as choosing roofing materials since siding can sustain lots of damage from Rapid City’s turbulent weather. Fortunately, Diamond Roofing offers three different types of siding: Vinyl, Engineered Lumber, and Fiber Cement. Each has its own pros and cons, so let’s go over the benefits and drawbacks of each type of siding.
What questions should you consider choosing a siding material?
Which siding option is the most durable?
If you’ve lived in Rapid City and the surrounding Black Hills, even just for one year, you know that durability is probably the most important aspect of siding. Being constantly pelted by hail, accosted with snow, and berated with wind can become pretty taxing for siding – so you want to make sure your siding can stand the test of time.
When it comes to durability, fiber cement and engineered lumber are your heavyweights. Fiber cement is like the superhero of siding materials—it’s tough, fire-resistant, and bugs can’t touch it. Engineered lumber is also strong and resists warping and cracking, giving you a solid, long-lasting option. Vinyl siding, while durable, doesn’t quite match up to these two. It’s sturdy enough for most conditions, but can crack in extreme cold or melt near high heat.
What type of siding is the most cost effective?
We understand that not everyone can afford the most premium siding materials, if you’re watching your budget, vinyl siding is your friend. It’s the most wallet-friendly option, both in terms of buying the material and getting it installed. Engineered lumber is a bit more expensive but still generally cheaper than fiber cement.
If you can afford the expensive stuff right off the bat, fiber cement is the way to go. It can be pricier, but it’s often worth it for the longevity and low maintenance costs down the road.
Are any siding types maintenance free?
If you want your siding to last, maintaining it in a tumultuous climate like we have in Rapid City is paramount. One of the best things about vinyl siding is that it’s practically maintenance-free. A quick rinse with a hose now and then, and you’re good to go.
Engineered lumber and fiber cement are also low maintenance, especially compared to natural wood. They don’t need frequent painting or sealing, but you might need to give them a check-up every few years to keep them looking their best.
Which siding type provides the best curb appeal?
This one is a little more subjective. If you want that classic, upscale look, engineered lumber and fiber cement are fantastic choices. They can mimic the look of natural wood so well that it’s hard to tell the difference. However, vinyl siding has come a long way and offers plenty of styles and colors. But some people still feel it doesn’t have quite the same premium feel as the other two. So it really depends on personal preference!
Is one type of siding easier to install than others?
Vinyl siding is the easiest and least expensive to install. It’s lightweight and can sometimes even go over your existing siding, saving you time and money. Fiber cement, on the other hand, is the trickiest and most labor-intensive to install because it’s heavy and needs special tools. Engineered lumber sits in the middle—it’s easier to handle than fiber cement but still requires professional installation to get it just right.
Choosing the right siding for your Rapid City home depends on what’s most important to you. If you’re looking for the most durable and low-maintenance option and don’t mind paying a bit more, fiber cement might be your best bet. If you want a balance of durability, appearance, and cost, engineered lumber is a solid choice (Get it? Solid? 😆). But if you need something affordable and easy to maintain, vinyl siding is hard to beat.
Ultimately, each siding material has its unique strengths and is suited to different priorities and budgets. It’s all about finding the right fit for your home and your needs.