Home improvement resource HouseLogic reports that installing sustainable siding materials adds as much as $12,000 to your home’s value. But if that amount still isn’t enough of an incentive for you, consider too that “green” siding also leaves a smaller footprint on our planet. This benefits everybody – including future generations – over the long term.

To fully harness the advantages offered by sustainable siding materials, you need to take the following factors into consideration.

THE PRODUCTION PROCESS

Siding materials are manufactured using various processes, and some are more taxing on the planet’s resources than others. A naturally-occurring siding material does not require artificial production, which allows for better resource management.

POST-LIFESPAN DISPOSAL

It is important to remember that just because an element is natural does not automatically mean it’s a green product. How the material is disposed of once it reaches the end of its lifespan is also important. Some materials end up in landfills, while others can be recycled back into production.

PART ONE: FACTORS TO CONSIDER WHEN CHOOSING YOUR SIDING

DURABILITY

The way a siding material performs over the course of its lifespan is also important to its overall sustainability. A material that fails quickly requires repairs or replacement, which impacts production and disposal. Exposure to weather elements should be considered, since siding is an exterior material that is always subjected to heat-cold cycles.

MAINTENANCE

Upkeep is another critical factor. Some materials require routine repainting, while others can last for years and only need an occasional cleaning.

ENERGY PERFORMANCE

Lastly, how the material performs in terms of minimizing energy use and reducing your bills is vital. Cladding is intended to improve comfort inside a home, and this largely depends on how the material reacts to temperature changes. Some types of siding are more effective than others at handling heat, cold, moisture and other environmental factors, while some warp, fade, rust or corrode more easily. You can also find siding materials with added insulation.

So which siding options should you consider? We cover that in part two of this e-book series.

PART ONE: FACTORS TO CONSIDER WHEN CHOOSING YOUR SIDING

In Part One, we discussed the different factors that play into a siding material’s sustainability. Fortunately, there are a lot of options to choose from if you want to switch to more sustainable siding. Let’s take a look at each one.

FIBER CEMENT

Fiber cement is regarded as one of the most sustainable siding materials in the world today. It is made from a mixture of cement, sand and cellulose fiber, materials that are readily available. Fiber cement is also resistant to insects including termites, which continue to plague other siding materials. It does not require a lot of maintenance as it is impervious to many elements including fire and heat. And it mimics the look of real wood, a fact which satisfies aesthetic needs.

ENGINEERED WOOD

Engineered wood siding made from oriented strand boards, hardwood and plywood, which are all harvested organically, also make for great cladding. The Forest Stewardship Council certifies these products, so we recommend checking your product labels carefully. Engineered wood has the same aesthetic appeal as its original version, at a more affordable price. But it does require significant maintenance.

PART TWO: MATERIAL CHOICES

RECYCLED METAL

Recycled steel or aluminum has a long lifespan, which makes it a very economical choice. Some models also have enhanced energy performance without the conductivity that is common to other types. And recycled metal does not require much by way of maintenance. Its fire rating is high compared with other types of materials.

SYNTHETIC STUCCO

Considered to be a big improvement over traditional stucco in terms of environmental impact, synthetic stucco has improved insulation capacities to help your home reduce its energy load. It also comes in a wide range of pre-mixed colors so it does not need a lot of repainting.

But how do you make sure a siding material is worth your investment? Find out in the closing segment of this blog series.

• Bark siding is an alternative to engineered wood siding that scores more points on the sustainability scale. This material is weather-resistant, recyclable and biodegradable, and can last for a long time without sealants. It is more expensive than engineered wood.

PART TWO: MATERIAL CHOICES

In Part One of our e-book series, we talked about the aspects that sustainability covers – from production to disposal. In Part Two, we examined the most sustainable materials. Today, we talk about how you can enjoy your investment fully.

Sustainable siding is a promising investment that every homeowner should consider, but cashing in on the rewards relies on several factors.

INSTALLATION

The success of every home improvement project hinges upon proper installation, and siding is no different. Synthetic stucco, for instance, should be installed with particular attention to preventing moisture damage. Fiber cement installation, on the other hand, creates a lot of silica dust which requires measures to ensure the safety of both the installation team and the occupants of the home.

COST-EFFECTIVENESS

Picking the right product does not just involve checking the price tag. You also need to consider the overall cost of maintaining and repairing the product as needed.

PART THREE: HOW TO MAKE THE MOST OF YOUR INVESTMENT

OTHER EXTERIOR ELEMENTS

Siding is only part of what makes your home energy-efficient. To maximize your energy savings, your home’s windows, doors, roof and other exterior components should also be chosen with energy efficiency in mind.

With that said, your contractor must be chosen with care. The right professional will not only help ensure that your sustainable siding project turns out to be a good investment, he or she will also help you with tips to keep it that way. Look for a contractor who has extensive experience in the industry; a solid track record speaks for the quality of service that you will get. Your contractor should also ideally carry products from trusted brands – as this will assure you of product quality, great support and extensive warranties.

As much as possible, choose a local contractor. A local professional will be familiar with the building codes and stipulations enforced in your area, and will understand the most energy-efficient products for your climate zone.

PART THREE: HOW TO MAKE THE MOST OF YOUR INVESTMENT

Twin Cities Siding Professionals

664 Transfer Road, St. Paul MN 55114

(651) 967 0873(651) 967-0894651-255-2844

TCSidingProfessionals.com