The quote “you never get a second chance to make a first impression” stands true in every form of “curb appeal.” Color, texture, and shape are the foremost characteristics that shape the feeling onlookers take from your home’s exterior design. Therefore, siding is key to creating a lasting warm and inviting impression that most homeowners crave for their dream home. With all the siding options today, your home will stand out beautifully and welcome guests for years to come.

Wood
Wood siding comes in various forms:
• Planks – long pieces arranged side-by-side and installed vertically
• Clapboard – long pieces installed horizontally and arranged to overlap
• Shingles – smaller uniform pieces arranged in rows
• Shakes – smaller non-uniform pieces also arranged in rows
The cost of wood siding is largely dependent on the type of wood used and the cost of installation. Softwood or manufactured wood is the most cost effective option, followed by cedar (a common choice), and redwood, which is extraordinarily expensive due to available location and installation.

Wood siding gives log house plans and cottage house plans an original natural appearance that is perfect for vacation retreats. They are extremely popular home plans with a cozy, rustic feeling that is great near lakes or oceans for fishing and hiking or in wilderness areas for hunting.

Whichever wood you choose it is important to know that maintenance must be a priority. No wood can have extensive moisture contract as this makes wood immediately susceptible to bugs as well as rotting and warping. Wood siding is quite durable and has a long lifespan if properly repainted or sealed every five to seven years. This may need to be done sooner if the wood is exposed to harsh climates.

Vinyl
Also known as polyvinyl chloride, vinyl is a low maintenance siding material. It never requires painting or sealing, but an occasional power wash will help keep it looking new. Vinyl is durable, dent and rust proof, and easy on the budget. Solid core vinyl is another option where premium vinyl is lined with foam backing which increases energy efficiency. Vinyl comes in a wide variety of color options, some of which closely resemble the appeal of wood.

Vinyl is an excellent option for small ranch house plans. It creates the ever-popular design that is simple and inviting, yet affordable.

Metal: Aluminum and Steel
Metal siding is gaining in popularity as its characteristics are comparable to vinyl but with a look that is all its own. Metal siding will not rust or rot and is insect and fireproof. It is susceptible to dents and scratches but certainly will not break. It requires the occasional cleaning but is otherwise extremely low maintenance. Metal siding is slightly more expensive that vinyl, though this varies based on installation fees.

Metal siding adds to the warm and relaxing feeling of country house plans. Two-story house plans with covered front porches exert a charming country touch that is a very popular choice nationwide.

Brick
Brick siding is a natural product of clay and water that is fired. It is an expensive siding option but it increases the value of the home in return. Extremely durable, brick also acts as an insulator and is fire and corrosion proof. It does not require any maintenance of painting and cleaning, however, do not allow plants or vines to grow up the side of the brick. This traps moisture and causes the mortar to weaken. If you find any spots where this has happened, do get it repaired quickly so as to avoid future damages.

Luxury house plans with brick siding gives homeowners a grand lifestyle through extra large floor plans and magnificent designs.

The colors available for brick siding come from the clay used in production, which causes a natural variance among the bricks. When choosing a color, be certain it is the one you like best as the color cannot be changed except by painting or replacing. The texture of the brick also varies from perfectly smooth surfaces to somewhat rough to the touch. Texture is evident visually and adds unique charm to a home.

When choosing brick you will need to decide what role it will play. Will it be a load-bearing wall that supports the weight of your home with no additional frame behind it? Or will you choose the more common veneer? Veneered brick is attached to a structure’s frame. The frame supports the home’s weight while the veneer adds the beautiful look of a solid brick home.

Stucco
Stucco siding is prevalent in hotter climates and comes in two forms:
• Hardcoat – 3 layers or sand, cement, and water mixed together and applied to the home
• Exterior Insulation and Finish System (EIFS/synthetic) – layers of polystyrene foam, cement adhesive, glass fiber mesh panel, and acrylic elastomeric coating

Both are extremely good insulators with thick walls that keep in cool air during hot seasons and warm air in the cool seasons.

Stucco siding with vibrant colors adds a custom feeling to the exterior of spanish house plans. A stucco wall with heavy ornamentation – wrought iron window and door hardware, arched entryways and heavily carved and shaped columns – is a remarkably unique design for homes in Southern climates.

Stucco
Stucco is the most efficient siding choice when it comes to installation, however it is not as durable as many other materials. Stucco is porous and easily dented by balls, children, and wildlife. Any holes that appear require immediate repair as water can cause immense damage; rotting, bug infestations, and mold do not take long to form when water permeates stucco. The key to durable stucco lies within installation. Most all issues that stem from stucco siding can be traced back to installation mistakes. Proper installation requires extensive experience, so it is recommended that a professional be hired. The high expense of stucco is largely due to the difficulty of installation.

Remember that your siding will be most energy efficient if paired with quality insulation, no matter the material you choose. Check references of contractors, verify insurance, and ask about warranties on your siding material. Inquire about necessary building permits and obtain competitive estimates. After thorough research, you will be confident when selecting quality siding that will create a lasting impression for your dream home.