When selecting the best materials for your home exterior, it is important to consider how your environment’s temperature and moisture levels affect various materials. If you are designing a coastal home, some materials will work better than others. Coastal homes are more likely to be in regular contact with heat, rain, and wind. If you select the wrong siding material, this weather could cause warping, fading, shrinking, or cracking. Fortunately, there are a few materials that can withstand coastal weather better than most. Read on to learn more about the best home siding for coastal climates.
Brick or Stone Veneer
While brick or stone are often chosen for their beautiful appearance, they offer a few more practical features. Brick and stone can be excellent materials for coastal climates because they are non-combustible and resistant to heat. Brick and stone also provide a layer of storm protection by keeping moisture off internal cavities with air gaps. These materials can hold their ground well against strong winds, and in addition to all of these benefits, brick and stone are relatively low maintenance.
Stucco Siding
Coastal weather can be loud, unpredictable, and the rain can be severe. Stucco siding, however, is practically built to withstand the unpredictability of coastal climates. This material is a great choice for homes subject to frequent heavy rain, high winds, and bright sunlight. Additionally, it doesn’t produce irritating noises, and it is resistant to insects and mold. However, stucco must be maintained well to last as long as possible. Stucco can be a significant investment, but that investment is well worth it.
Vinyl Siding
Vinyl siding can offer several appealing benefits. It has a great, clean finish, durability, low cost, and low maintenance. If you live in the moderate climate of Maryland and Delaware, vinyl siding can be a worthwhile option. Vinyl also provides homeowners with numerous design options. There are many styles of vinyl siding, including:
- Horizontal panels
- Vertical panels
- Traditional lap
- Dutch lap
- Board and batten
- Beaded
- Shakes
- Faux cedar
- Scallops
Natural Cedar Siding
If you desire a classic wood look, natural cedar is the most attractive option. There are various treatments available to make the wood flame retardant. Additionally, the siding will keep bugs away and contains antifungal properties that ensure longevity. Cedar siding is also biodegradable, renewable, and reclaimable, making it a great choice for eco-minded homeowners. However, the maintenance costs can be high, so that is a factor worth considering before committing to this siding option.
Fiber Cement Siding
Fiber cement is the only type of home siding for coastal climates that combines the durable performance of masonry with the look of clapboards, shingles, or stone or brick. The material is rot-, fire-, and termite-proof and unaffected by wind or cold. Many homeowners enjoy this siding because it holds down costs without compromising aesthetics. However, fiber cement siding relies on caulk joints which require maintenance to stay durable. Fiber cement siding may be more expensive than other siding options, but it can be a worthwhile investment for the right home.
Build Your Dream Home With T&G Builders
T&G Builders, located in Berlin, MD, has been a premier waterfront custom home builder and home improvement contractor serving Worcester and Sussex Counties for over 25 years. We are a locally owned and operated business known for our uncompromising commitment to quality, our passion for using innovative technology and premium materials to complete projects, and our exceptional attention to detail. In addition to building custom homes, we also specialize in remodeling your current house into your dream home! Our skilled team can assess your needs, determine the right design for your addition or improvement, and complete the entire construction process.
To see what your dream home could look like and receive a free home design, contact us today! Don’t forget to follow T&G Builders on Facebook, Twitter, Pinterest, and Houzz.