Why Contractors & Homeowners Prefer Real Wood Siding Over Alternatives

When it comes to choosing the best siding, there are many factors that contractors and homeowners have to consider. There are various materials available, from vinyl to metal, but wood siding tends to stand out as a top choice across the board. While each material has its advantages and disadvantages, wood siding’s timeless design, environmentally friendly composition, ease of installation, versatility, and resale value continue to appeal to contractors and homeowners alike.

Installation

Compared to other materials, wood is one of the easiest types of siding to install; it can be custom-cut and adjusted on-site, allowing for greater flexibility during installation. Similarly, vinyl siding is a popular choice for those seeking a quicker installation with minimal cutting and tools. At WoodHaven, our E-Z Loc Siding eliminates the guesswork. Designed with tongue-and-groove paneling, our wood siding is custom-cut to fit any home, reducing waste and ensuring a seamless installation process.

Installing fiber cement siding is very labor-intensive and time-consuming, especially compared to wood siding; it requires contractors and builders to have special tools to handle the heavy material all while avoiding damaging it. Workers often need to wear special equipment when installing fiber cement siding to protect themselves from inhaling silica dust, an airborne health hazard that can cause severe lung damage.

Environmental Impact and Energy Efficiency

Wood siding is eco-friendly and renewable, making it an appealing choice for homeowners who value their impact on the environment. It is also a natural insulator that can improve energy efficiency when paired with good insulation.

In contrast, materials like vinyl, metal, and fiber cement are not biodegradable and contribute to waste at the end of their lifespan. Vinyl siding releases harmful toxins and greenhouse gases during production, while metal siding requires energy-intensive manufacturing and lacks natural insulation, often necessitating additional insulating materials. Similarly, fiber cement demands significant resources to produce, making wood a more environmentally responsible option.

Durability and Maintenance

When evaluating siding options, durability, maintenance, and long-term performance are key considerations for both contractors and homeowners. While wood siding often requires more upkeep over time, it can be highly resistant to outdoor elements when properly maintained. At WoodHaven, our wood siding is pre-finished and undergoes an extended kiln-drying process to combat warping and bleeding which are common concerns when choosing natural materials. Naturally durable woods like cedar provide built-in resistance to insects and rot, making them a long-lasting choice. One major advantage of wood siding is its ease of repair. Our tongue-and-groove siding allows individual panels to be replaced effortlessly, simplifying maintenance.

By contrast, vinyl siding, while known for its quick installation and affordability, is prone to warping if not installed correctly. It can fade over time due to prolonged UV exposure, leading to discoloration and a diminished appearance. Its lightweight nature also makes it more susceptible to damage from falling trees or extreme weather. Vinyl does not retain or reflect heat well, offering only minimal insulation on its own.

Metal siding provides excellent durability and is fully recyclable, but it comes at a higher price point with limited design options compared to other materials. In wetter or coastal climates, it is prone to rust, and its rigid structure makes installation more challenging. While metal siding holds up well against general wear and tear, it can be dented or scratched by falling debris, which can impact its longevity. Another drawback of metal siding is its tendency to amplify the sound of rain or hail, potentially affecting a home’s overall appeal and resale value.

Fiber cement siding is another durable and fire-resistant option, but its weight makes installation and repairs significantly more difficult. Specialized tools are required to handle and cut the material, and replacing damaged panels can be a labor-intensive process. Compared to wood, fiber cement lacks the same level of flexibility and ease of maintenance, making it a more demanding choice for long-term upkeep.

Aesthetics and Resale Value

Wood is a living material, meaning it naturally looks and feels more inviting. Unlike synthetic, manufactured materials like vinyl or fiber cement, wood siding blends in with the environment, creating a strong connection between home and nature. Homeowners value the warmth and natural charm it brings to their homes that synthetic materials can’t seem to replicate. Wood siding is often associated with luxury and quality, increasing the overall resale value of a home. This is especially appealing to contractors and builders because of the high-quality material of wood as they understand the long-term value of using real wood. Available in various finishes, wood siding can be paired with materials like stone, brick, or metal, making it highly adaptable to different architectural styles and appealing to potential homebuyers.

While every material offers its benefits, wood siding remains a top choice for contractors and homeowners alike, from its timeless appeal to its ease of installation. Trust WoodHaven to provide the finest wood siding the industry has to offer.