Exterior Siding Servicesin Edgewater, MD and Surrounding Areas

Protect Your Home With Exterior House Siding Options

Protect your home against weather, mold, pests, and more with exterior siding services from Thunder Bay Roofing. Led by experienced Edgewater, MD contractors Nick Perz and Steve Friedman, our team provides various exterior siding options, including fiber cement, vinyl, and wood siding, that can fit the style and function of any home. We can also install your cladding by orientation for added curb appeal or protection. Contact Thunder Bay Roofing for your free exterior house siding services consultation by dialing 410-956-7663 or keep reading to learn more.  

What is Exterior House Siding?

Exterior house siding, also known as exterior cladding, serves as the outermost layer of your home’s structure, functioning as a crucial barrier against various environmental elements and potential issues. It plays a pivotal role in safeguarding your home’s structural integrity by shielding it from moisture, harsh weather conditions, pests, and other challenges. As a trusted local siding company, Thunder Bay Roofing is committed to assisting you in understanding the diverse exterior cladding options available, guiding you through the selection process, and recommending the most suitable choice based on your budget and personal preferences. 

Vertical vs. Horizontal House Siding: Choosing the Right Orientation

The orientation of your siding, whether vertical or horizontal, can significantly impact the appearance, character, and functionality of your home’s exterior. Each orientation offers unique benefits and aesthetic considerations to consider.

Horizontal Siding

Horizontal siding, also known as lap siding, is a traditional and widely used choice. It consists of long, overlapping planks that run parallel to the ground. Benefits of horizontal siding include:

• Classic Appearance: Horizontal siding is a popular choice for those seeking a timeless and classic look for their homes. It is often associated with traditional architectural styles and can impart a sense of familiarity and warmth.
• Water Shedding: The horizontal orientation naturally sheds water and moisture away from the wall, making it a suitable option for regions with frequent rain or snow.
• Varied Styles: Horizontal lap siding is available in various materials, textures, and profiles, allowing homeowners to achieve diverse aesthetic effects, from rustic to modern.

Vertical Siding

Vertical siding, also known as board-and-batten siding, features planks that are installed vertically along the wall with smaller boards (battens) covering the seams. Some key benefits of vertical siding include:

• Contemporary Appeal: Vertical siding imparts a more contemporary and unique appearance to your home. It is often chosen for its ability to make a statement and create a distinctive visual impact.
• Height Emphasis: This orientation can visually elongate the appearance of your home, making it an excellent choice for structures with lower ceilings or those looking to emphasize height.
• Distinctive Texture: Vertical siding’s alternating pattern of boards and battens can introduce a textured and visually engaging look to your home’s exterior.

When deciding between vertical and horizontal siding, it’s essential to consider your architectural style, personal preferences, and the climate of your region. Each orientation offers its own charm and can complement different architectural styles. Additionally, you may choose to combine both orientations for a creative and eye-catching exterior design, using vertical siding as an accent or to define specific areas of your home.

Exterior Siding Materials Available from Thunder Bay Roofing

Vinyl Siding

Vinyl exterior siding is a durable type of plastic used for the exterior of a home. It’s been a popular choice in Maryland for many homeowners because of its combined attributes of being affordable, attractive, and easy to maintain. It also has other benefits such as:

• Recyclable — As a plastic resin, vinyl siding can be recycled and reused, making it more environmentally friendly than other options. 
• Versatile — Vinyl siding comes in a wide variety of color combinations and styles.
• Highly Weather Resistant — Vinyl is water-proof so it won’t absorb moisture and easily stands up to rain. 
• Lifetime Warranty — Vinyl siding can last 20 to 40 years and comes backed by the manufacturer’s guarantee.  
• Energy Efficiency — Vinyl wall cladding often comes with insulation options that can improve the energy efficiency of your home. Insulated vinyl siding helps regulate indoor temperatures, reducing heating and cooling costs and making your home more comfortable year-round.
• Low Maintenance — Vinyl is known for its minimal upkeep requirements. Unlike wood siding that needs regular painting or staining, vinyl only requires occasional cleaning with mild soap and water to maintain its appearance. This saves homeowners both time and money on maintenance.
• Resistance to Insects and Pests — Vinyl wall cladding is impervious to insects and pests that can cause damage to other types of siding, such as wood. This ensures that your home’s exterior remains intact and free from infestations.
• Fade Resistance — Vinyl exterior cladding is formulated to resist fading due to UV exposure, ensuring that the color remains vibrant and doesn’t require frequent repainting or touch-ups.
• Budget-Friendly — Vinyl exterior cladding is generally more affordable than some other cladding options, making it an attractive choice for homeowners who want to enhance their home’s appearance without breaking the bank.
• Quick Installation — Vinyl is relatively quick and straightforward to install, which can save on labor costs during the installation process. It’s a cost-effective and efficient way to transform your home’s exterior.
• Wide Range of Profiles — Vinyl cladding comes in various profiles and textures, allowing homeowners to achieve their desired aesthetic, whether it’s a traditional, modern, or custom look.
• Noise Reduction — Insulated vinyl siding can help reduce external noise, providing a quieter and more peaceful indoor environment.

Fiber Cement Siding

Fiber cement siding, also known as “Hardie Plank®”, Hardie board, or cement board, is a durable material made from Portland cement, fibers, sand, water, and other additives, used for residential homes. It’s a popular choice in Maryland because of its combined attributes of being long-lasting, low-maintenance, and versatility in style. It also has other benefits such as:

• Emulates Wood — Cement board mimics the look of wood grain, making this man-made option look naturally attractive.
• Pest and Microbial Resistant — The tight seaming in cement board makes it almost completely resistant to mold, pests, and rot.  
• Fire Resistant — Hardie board is non-combustible, so your exterior cladding won’t burn or add fuel to a fire. This makes the material especially useful for customers in fire-prone regions. 
• Highly Resistant to Harsh Weather — Cement wall cladding won’t expand or contract with hot and cold, making it much less likely to crack. Additionally, for customers who live on the coast, we highly recommend fiber cement, as it will stay resilient against the salty sea air. 
• Color Retention — Fiber cement holds paint exceptionally well, ensuring that the vibrant color you choose for your home’s exterior remains fresh and appealing for an extended period. This reduces the need for frequent repainting and helps better preserve darker shades of paint.
• Eco-Friendly — Fiber cement exterior cladding is an eco-conscious choice as it is made from sustainable and natural materials. It doesn’t contribute to deforestation, making it a more environmentally responsible cladding option.
• Resistant to Fading — Unlike some other cladding materials that can fade or become discolored over time due to UV exposure, fiber cement siding maintains its color vibrancy, preserving the curb appeal of your home.
• Wide Range of Styles — Fiber cement offers a diverse range of styles and textures, allowing homeowners to achieve the exact look they desire, whether it’s a traditional appearance, modern aesthetics, or something in between.
• Easy Installation — Cement siding material is relatively straightforward to install, which can save on labor costs during the exterior cladding installation process. However, it’s essential to have it installed by experienced professionals to ensure proper performance.
• Resale Value — Investing in Hardie board cladding can boost the resale value of your home. Potential buyers often appreciate the durability and low maintenance of fiber cement siding, making your property more attractive on the real estate market.   

Cedar Plank Wood Siding

Cedar plank siding is a type of natural wood exterior cladding made from individual planks or boards cut from cedar. These planks are typically installed horizontally on the exterior walls of a structure, overlapping one another to create a protective barrier against the elements. Other benefits of cedar plank siding include: 

• Natural Beauty — Cedar plank wood cladding boasts a warm, reddish-brown color that adds natural beauty and rustic charm to the exterior of a home. It weathers gracefully to an attractive gray patina over time, enhancing curb appeal as the years pass.
• Durability — Cedar wood cladding is naturally resistant to decay, rot, and insect infestations. This durability means that cedar plank wood siding can last for many years with little maintenance.
• Insulation — Cedar wood cladding has inherent insulating properties, helping to regulate indoor temperatures and reduce energy consumption, which can contribute to lower heating and cooling costs.
• Low Maintenance — Cedar plank cladding requires little maintenance compared to some other siding materials. Periodic cleaning and sealing can help maintain its appearance and structural integrity.
• Moisture Resistance — Cedar wood cladding has a natural ability to repel moisture, which helps prevent water damage and rot, making it an excellent choice for cladding in damp or rainy climates.
• Sustainability — Unlike engineered wood, real wood siding like cedar wood siding is a renewable resource. Many cedar forests are responsibly managed, making it an eco-friendly cladding option for environmentally-conscious homeowners.
• Aromatic Properties — Cedar wood emits a pleasant, natural aroma that acts as a natural insect repellent, helping to deter pests from your home.
• Customizable Finishes — Cedar plank wood siding can be stained or painted to achieve a wide range of colors and finishes, allowing many homeowners to customize their home’s appearance to suit their preferences.
• Resale Value — Homes with real wood siding, such as cedar wood siding, often have higher resale values due to their attractive aesthetics and long-lasting performance.
• Ease of Repair — If damaged, individual cedar wood planks can be easily replaced without the need to replace the entirety of the exterior cladding, saving on repair costs.
• Natural Weather Resistance — Cedar wood can withstand harsh weather conditions, including strong winds and UV exposure, without deteriorating quickly.
• Fire Resistance — Cedar wood siding has a natural resistance to fire, which can provide an added layer of safety for your home.

Fiber Cement, Cedar Plank, or Vinyl Home Siding Options?

When it comes to selecting the best siding for your home, there are several factors to consider. Each factor plays a crucial role in determining whether vinyl, cedar plank, or fiber siding is the right choice for you. 

Weather Conditions in Your Area

The climatic conditions in your region are a paramount consideration. Vinyl siding, known for its resilience against moisture, can be an excellent choice in areas with frequent rain or high humidity. On the other hand, fiber cement cladding remains a highly durable type of exterior cladding in regions with extreme temperature fluctuations and is resistant to rot and insect damage. Cedar plank wood siding, while visually appealing, may require more maintenance in areas with high humidity or intense sun exposure.

Your Unique Aesthetic Preferences

Your personal taste and the desired appearance of your home should not be overlooked. Vinyl siding offers a wide range of colors and styles, making it a versatile choice for those who want a variety of aesthetic options. Hardie board siding, with its ability to mimic the look of wood, or a natural stone veneer, can cater to homeowners seeking a more traditional or rustic appearance. Cedar plank wood siding, with its natural wood texture and scent, adds a touch of timeless elegance to any home exterior.

Architectural Style of Your Home

The architectural style of your home plays a significant role in the cladding decision. Vinyl siding can adapt to various architectural styles due to its versatility. Fiber cement siding, with its authentic wood grain texture, is a great match for homes with classic or vintage designs. Cedar plank wood siding, renowned for its natural beauty, complements homes with a rustic or naturalistic architectural flair.

Fire Risk in Your Location

The fire risk in your area is a critical safety consideration. Vinyl siding is less flammable and can provide a degree of fire resistance. Fiber cement cladding is inherently fire-resistant and may be preferred in regions prone to wildfires. Cedar plank wood siding, while visually appealing, may require additional fire-resistant treatments in high-risk fire areas.

Proximity to Coastal Areas

If you live near the coast, you must account for the corrosive effects of saltwater and strong winds. Vinyl siding is known for its resistance to salt corrosion, making it a suitable choice for coastal homes. Fiber cement siding, although sturdy, may require more maintenance in coastal areas due to its vulnerability to saltwater. Cedar plank wood siding may be used near the coast but should be properly sealed and maintained to withstand the harsh coastal elements.

With Thunder Bay, choosing between fiber cement, vinyl, or wood siding doesn’t have to be hard. Call us at our Edgewater location by dialing 410-956-7663 and we’ll help you get the right siding installed for your specific needs and tastes with a free exterior siding services consultation.

Why Choose Thunder Bay for Exterior Siding Services

At Thunder Bay, our siding specialists have more than 20 years of combined experience installing and replacing a wide variety of siding types. We offer free consultations with qualified siding experts, giving you peace of mind before you commit to any of our exterior siding services. We only use quality, durable materials for our siding options. We’ll give you honest evaluations based on style, location, and functionality to ensure your exterior house siding option works for your home.  

Frequently Asked Questions