All About Siding for Farm Homes

Farm house in Oklahoma City, Oklahoma.

In truth, there are lots of home improvements that can be done on the farm,  both on the inside and the outside of our property. However, very few have the impact of new siding. With the right choice, it can give your farm home a unique appearance. In terms of curb appeal, new siding can have a dramatic effect. In this short guide, we want to discuss the primary considerations when choosing a material before then looking at the main four options that seem to have passed the test of time!

Important Considerations

How is the climate where you live? If you get lots of rain, you will need a siding material that offers water resistance. By doing this, you can prevent decay and extend the life of the siding. For example, wood siding in Washington State might not be the best option for the long run. While on the note of the weather, those in warmer climates like Arizona may want to consider energy efficiency. When a siding offers thermal insulation and a proper R-value, heat should remain inside the home, and you can save money on energy bills (an attractive proposition for buyers!). You may also want to reach out to a siding installation contractor to discuss the best options siding options for your area. A siding contractor will know the outdoor elements in your local area and which siding types are best for you.

For some, the appearance will be the most critical factor. While stone and brick are limited in terms of color, you can almost choose from a full-color wheel with vinyl. Of course, you also need to remember the exterior and structure of your home. For example, a stone veneer siding may not suit a three-story Victorian house on a three-acre farm.

For others, they care more about the eco-friendly nature of siding. While wood is naturally green, fiber cement also contains cement, clay, sand, and wood-pulp fibers. Most farm properties would be well suited for this option.

Finally, two other considerations would be durability and cost. How much money do you have to spend on siding? How long do you want the siding to last before it requires maintenance, painting, or even replacing completely?

Types of Siding For Your Farm

In truth, there are four main types of siding. Although you will find others that aren’t on this list, these four tend to be the most popular siding types found on farm properties. You can also consult a

1. Metal Siding

metal siding on the barn.

Generally made of steel and aluminum, this option was first introduced because of the high maintenance required with other materials. Especially considering the ubiquitous nature of overseas steel at a low cost, it’s an affordable option for those who need it. Not only is metal inherently durable, but some homeowners are also choosing to finish with vinyl or plastic coatings, which adds resistance against weathering and fading. 

With very little maintenance required, some manufacturers offer a 35-year warranty, and the average cost is around $6 per square foot for steel and $5 for aluminum.

2. Wood Siding

wood siding on tractor garage

Whether using planks, panels, or boards, wood is often considered the most beautiful siding. It can add character to a home, and there are several finishes and styles. On the other hand, there are two main problems with wood siding; the high cost and high maintenance. When installing wood, you will also need to add a stain or paint finish. Unfortunately, there’s also a risk of insect infestations, rotting, and damage when exposed to the sun.

3. Vinyl Siding

Next up, the industry continued to look for ways to overcome the problems with wood, and this led to vinyl. It’s available in all sorts of styles, it’s relatively affordable, and it doesn’t require much maintenance. In fact, the color goes right through the material, which makes painting unnecessary.

4. Fiber Cement Siding

fiber cement siding on guest house

Finally, this is the newest development in the market as a low-maintenance, durable product. Made from recycled materials, it’s installed in a similar way to wood and is available in different styles. Unfortunately, it costs an average of $10 per square foot.

Conclusion

With this, hopefully, you now know more about siding, the considerations to make, and the primary materials. Good luck when choosing for your home!