Because the home’s exterior is the first thing people see when passing by or coming for a visit, it’s important it makes a strong first impression. If you would like to achieve a distinctive look that you will love (and others will admire), here are some unique siding materials and design ideas for your home.
Reasons to Invest in Unique Siding Materials
Selecting siding that works or blends in with other exterior finishing elements such as entry doors, windows, and trim is a practical way to stretch your home improvement budget. But one of the main reasons to invest in unique siding materials is better resale value if you plan on moving in the future. Other reasons to invest in unique custom siding are:
- Boosted curb appeal
- Increased personal enjoyment
- Longer lifespan and better protection – unique siding materials are typically better quality and more durable
- Energy efficient
- Sustainable – unique siding materials tend to be eco-friendly, low-maintenance, and cost-effective
Copper Siding
Copper is a very attractive siding option. Like copper gutters, while on the high-end of the price range, copper siding lasts anywhere from 50 to 100 years depending on location (near the ocean versus inland). It is lightweight, corrosion-resistant, and strong.
Copper siding is typically available in panels and can be installed in a variety of ways, making it adaptable to different architectural styles. Copper siding installation styles include corrugated, batten, and standing seam.
Again, similar to copper gutters, homeowners can choose copper siding that will patina over time (untreated) or remain shiny reddish brown/orange gold in colour (treated).
Steel Siding
Steel siding has a lot going for it. It is durable, low-maintenance, fire resistant, and attractive (curb appeal). While used in the past several decades mostly for commercial and industrial uses, steel siding for residential applications is gaining in popularity. In addition to the benefits already mentioned, steel siding won’t absorb heat or moisture in the way other siding materials do, eliminating possible mold, algae, or fungus growth. It is also energy-efficient and adaptable to most architectural styles.
Log Siding
Whether it’s a cottage by the lake or a contemporary style home in an urban setting, log siding has a distinct profile created by logs stacked one on top of one another. Log structures are typically constructed of pine, spruce, or cedar. Logs are secured in place by an interlocking system called tongue and groove. The main drawback of log siding is its weight.
If you would like to achieve the look of log siding but don’t want to install traditional logs, choose other options such as half-round (logs cut in half), flat log siding (cut to two inches thick), or faux log siding (panels made of plywood).
Slate Siding
Slate, like other natural stones used as siding materials, has a simple, yet timeless appearance. Initial cost is high, but is very durable, known to last 100 years, and requires less maintenance than other kinds of stone siding. Slate doesn’t have the “texture” of limestone or granite. It features a natural look e natural look that is sleek and smooth. Slate siding improves a home’s energy efficiency.
Design Ideas using Standard Siding Materials
When purchasing unique or custom siding doesn’t appeal to you or isn’t in your budget, apply these design ideas using standard siding materials to elevate your home’s exterior.
To make a house appear taller pair board panels with batten siding.
Using wood strip siding (horizontal orientation) on a small house makes it appear larger.
Accent architectural features such as distinctive window casements, gables, or entry doors by installing half round cedar shingles, or bevel fiber cement siding panels.
Use different siding materials to clad your home’s exterior to create visual interest. When combining materials, use a maximum of four different kinds – too many can be distracting.
