If you’re considering replacing your home’s siding, you have plenty of options for a durable, stylish finish. You need siding materials that can withstand the humid summers and brutal winters of central Illinois while highlighting your home’s architectural features.
Below, our locally owned team from Sundown Exteriors explores the best types of siding for homes in Bloomington, Normal, Lincoln, Pontiac, and Peoria. If you want to upgrade your siding, call us for a free consultation.
Considerations When Selecting Your Siding Material
Selecting siding materials can feel overwhelming, so you must consider a few factors first to narrow your options. Before we dive into the best siding materials for Illinois homes, we recommend considering the following:
- Your home’s style: Metal exterior cladding may complement modern villas, while wood siding highlights a cozy cabin. Since all types of siding come in varying colors, patterns, and textures, consider the property’s aesthetics and your design preferences.
- Your budget: Metal siding will typically cost more than vinyl. Every material has its price range, so you should set a relative budget to narrow your options.
- Your maintenance preferences: Certain types of siding require frequent upkeep, while others rarely need any work. Consider how much effort and money you’re willing to invest in future maintenance.
- Durability and protection: While some siding can withstand extreme wind, hail, rain, snow, and more, others may get dented or grow mold. You will typically need to weigh how much you care about price and style versus durability and protection.
- Your energy efficiency needs: Some materials offer natural insulative qualities that can reduce your home’s energy consumption.
The Best Siding Options for Illinois Homeowners
Now that you know what qualities you’re looking for in your new home siding, let’s dive into the best options for Illinois homeowners:
Vinyl
Vinyl is one of the most popular types of siding in Illinois for its low price, versatile style options, and decent durability. Vinyl siding can withstand much of the area’s severe weather patterns, including the humid summers and intense winters, though it may not last as long as other materials because it can warp over time, and moisture may eventually get trapped behind the panels.
Composite
Composite siding offers an elevated design that can mimic the look of many materials, including cedar shake, wood panels, and more. The siding contains recycled wood fibers to create a highly durable, water-resistant finish that can last as long as 30 years. Composite typically provides excellent longevity, energy efficiency, and minimal maintenance, though it will cost you more.
Fiber Cement
Fiber cement is another synthetic siding solution containing cellulose fibers, cement, sand, and other materials for durability against fire, UV rays, rain, hail, wind, and more. You can purchase fiber cement siding in all different colors and styles, including stucco finishes, vertical grooves, and more.
Metal
Metal siding can elevate any contemporary home while providing superior water and fire resistance. While the material may not fare as well against hail or impact, it can last as long as 70 years, making it a worthwhile investment for many homeowners.
Wood
Wood siding offers the most traditional, rustic appeal but can come with issues like pest infestations, rot, mold, and decay. To prevent such concerns, you must keep up with regular maintenance. Certain types of wood siding can last up to 100 years when maintained well.
Are You Ready To Replace Your Siding?
Now that you know about popular types of siding in central Illinois, call Sundown Exteriors today at (309) 275-6801 to schedule a free estimate for your replacement. We offer top-notch siding from Owens Corning and CertainTeed.