What Siding Material Is Best Suited for a Beach Home or Waterfront Property?
The exterior siding of a beach home or waterfront property must be high-quality and exceptionally strong to withstand harsh weather conditions. In this post, we’ll discuss the different siding materials and determine which suits properties near coastal areas.
Unique Needs of Beach Homes and Waterfront Properties
When it comes to determining the best siding material for a property, you have to first learn more about the stressors present in the location.
Coastal locations may be a great place to build a house or property because of the magnificent view of the sea. It’s great to stay in beach houses and waterfront properties when you want a peaceful retirement life or to get away from the hustle and bustle of the city.
But these locations present some unique challenges when constructing a building. Sea air is rich with droplets of ocean water that contain a high level of minerals, including salt, that can corrode metal. The humidity on the oceanfront is also often high, which is bad for building materials that aren’t water-resistant.
Strong winds are common in coastal areas as well. The consistent sea breeze and occasional wind gusts will test your property’s stability and durability. And since there are typically no tall established trees that can provide shade, properties are typically exposed to the sun and its harmful UV rays.
It’s important to note that weather patterns and conditions vary depending on where you are on the beach. You need to consider all these factors when choosing a material if you want your Raleigh windows and siding to last for years and protect you and your property from the onslaughts of nature.
Understanding the Different Types of Siding: An Overview
Exterior siding is a vital part of any property, whether built inland or near the sea, as it serves as the first line of defense against the elements and can also affect your home’s curb appeal.
There are many types of siding material, and the most popular ones are:
Vinly
Vinyl is one of the most widely used siding materials in the United States. You can often see this siding on smaller homes that require weatherproof protection. It comes in various colors and textures to suit whatever design you want. In addition, this material is known for being low maintenance and affordable. It resists rot and high temperatures and can last around 30 years on average.
However, vinyl siding also has drawbacks. The material can fade fast because it’s sensitive to excess UV light exposure. If not properly installed, it may permit moisture below the surface, causing mold growth and rotting sheathing. You may also need frequent siding repair in Raleigh, NC.
Wood
Wood is one of the oldest options for exterior siding. It comes in many styles, like shingles, clapboards, shakes, and board and batten. Stained wood siding exudes a natural, warm appearance and timeless beauty. But you can also paint the material to achieve a specific look.
Metal
Metal is also gaining popularity as a material for exterior siding. It’s durable and stands up well to extreme temperatures and other harsh weather conditions. It also comes in various types, like steel and aluminum. Moreover, this material does not tend to rot or warp. However, the material offers little insulation and isn’t soundproof.
Fiber Cement
Made of a mixture of cement and wood pulp, fiber cement can also resist strong winds and other harsh weather conditions. It is durable and low maintenance but still offers flexibility when it comes to aesthetics. Contractors can make it appear like other siding materials, such as wood. However, it’s pretty expensive.
Brick
Brick is a good siding material, especially for properties in coastal areas. Made out of clay and shale, brick does not rot or split. It is resistant to high temperatures and offers extra protection to your home during severe windstorm events. It comes in an infinite array of colors and doesn't require frequent repainting. Moreover, the material can act as a temperature stabilizer, making your home energy efficient. Lastly, brick can increase your property’s value.
However, installing brick siding does not come cheap. For example, a 2,000-square-foot home will likely require at least $9,000 for brick siding. You will also need additional materials for installation, like a waterproof membrane.
What Is the Best Beach House Siding Material?
Among your siding material options, fiber cement is considered by many to be the most suitable for beach houses and waterfront properties. This material has most of the qualities you would want in your beach house siding but is less likely to break the bank.
The most popular brand of this type of siding is Hardie, and it is known for being:
Weather resistant – Fiber cement board is durable enough to withstand temperature extremes, including brutal humid heat in coastal areas. The material is less likely to crack, swell, or split.
Moisture resistant – Properly installed high-performing fiber cement siding does not absorb water, so you don’t have to worry about moisture-related damage.
Durable and long-lasting – Properly installed and maintained high-quality fiber cement siding can last for as long as 50 years.
Fiber cement also has a downside: seams tend to be visible. If you don’t like how fiber cement siding looks and have a large budget, there’s another option: brick. It’s a classic and timeless exterior siding material that has been a standard in the construction industry because of its durability and low maintenance.
Brick offers stability, strength, and the ability to withstand inclement weather. It can withstand strong winds, scorching sun, and driving rain. Moreover, this material can last up to 100 years.
You can also choose other materials, like vinyl or stone veneer. Just make sure to understand the strengths and weaknesses of these options.
How to Determine Which Material Is Best Suited for Your Home’s Needs
Aside from brick and fiber cement, many other siding materials can also be suitable for beach houses. If you want to explore other options, make sure to consider the following factors:
Maintenance: Beach house siding is exposed to harsh elements, so materials tend to deteriorate, lose color, etc. quite fast. Consider the level of maintenance that you’re willing to put in when choosing a siding material.
Cost Effectiveness: Some materials, like vinyl, cost less to install but require regular maintenance and repair. The maintenance and repair costs often add up, so you’ll likely spend more money in the long run. Meanwhile, materials like brick may be expensive upfront but are durable and less likely to need frequent repair. They can also improve your home’s energy efficiency and increase your property’s value.
Installation: There are siding materials you can install yourself and others that need professional expertise. Even if your chosen material is easy to install, it’s wise to let reliable siding contractors in Raleigh, NC handle the job. Proper installation is paramount since the exterior siding will be exposed to harsh weather conditions.
Siding Services You Can Count On
When it comes to siding repair/replacement or installation, you can count on Anderson Painting. Our company uses high-quality materials in every project and ensures the team does everything properly so you don’t suffer the consequences of a botched job. Our team will handle your property with respect and care.
Anderson Painting also offers interior and exterior painting services. So, if you want to change the color of your exterior siding, you don’t need to go through the hassle of finding another contractor for the job. Anderson Painting can do it all.
If you want to know what's the best material to use for siding your house in Raleigh, NC, please feel free to contact our team. Anderson Painting will be more than willing to discuss your options.