Featured Article:

Siding and Residing Options: More than just a pretty face, siding is an essential component for shielding your home from the elements. In order for siding to be truly waterproof it must be properly installed. Trim and siding is just the final cladding of a multi-layered system.

Housewrap or building paper should be installed underneath siding to repel water away from the interior framing and structure of a home.

Flashing works along with siding to provide a waterproof transition between building elements and materials. These bridge cracks and direct water away from junctures, like headers above windows and doors, where water would ordinarily dam up.

Sealants are used to adhere materials to each other. These sealants also fill gaps and give the exterior an air-tight defense the rain and cold.

The type of siding material and color that will best suits a home depends on its style, the preferences and the budget of the current owner. Wood siding, stone siding, brick, brick veneer siding, cedar shingle siding, stucco siding, wood siding, vinyl siding, metal siding and aluminum siding are some of the various kinds of siding options open to homeowners.

Real wood siding can be made from redwood, cedar, fir, pine and spruce - to name some popular choices. Pricing and maintenance requirements of these woods vary, so it is good to take these considerations into account before you choose a particular wood siding. Pine, for example, is generally a less expensive wood purchase, but it can be more labor-intensive to install.