Written by R. Ann Sipper

Exterior wood siding comes in a wide variety of styles, textures and finishes. It is popular with homeowners who want to increase the value of their property and add a natural element to their homes.

Wood siding does require an exterior finish to ensure longevity. Wood stain and paint are popular options. Wood siding also is easy to repair when properly maintained. With periodic care and maintenance, wood siding can even outlast other popular home exteriors such as vinyl.

Benefits of wood siding

Wood siding benefits the exterior of a home in a number of ways. Beyond adding value to a home, many different types of exterior wood siding are repellent to insects. Pest control is a large part of home maintenance costs; carefully choosing woods such as cedar can help control these costs.

Wood siding is also easy to install. It can be installed over a variety of surfaces on existing homes, as well as on new construction. Ease of installation can keep labor costs down.

When possible, buy the best grade of wood siding your budget will allow. Buying locally grown wood is an optimal way to buy a high grade of exterior wood siding that is suited to your climate. Choosing wood suited to your environment will ensure longevity and durability through the years.

Wood siding options

Wood siding comes in a variety of vertical and horizontal options. This makes it versatile for a large variety of architectural styles. Vertical options such as board and batten and horizontal options like clapboard, shingles, and shakes are just a few of the options.

After selecting a style of wood siding, consider the type of wood you'd like to use. Most people tend to buy wood local to their area to adhere to a budget. Wood options include pine, fir, cedar, spruce and redwood.

Pine is one of the least expensive exterior wood siding options. It is popular with homeowners and known for holding its finish well. Pine wood siding can be painted or stained.

Cedar wood siding is rot resistant and suited to most climates. It resists swelling in damp climates and is known for its aromatic quality. Although pricey, it is long lasting and will add value to any structure.

Fir is another economical type of wood siding for a variety of architectural styles. It also holds its finish well and is suited to many climates.

Spruce exterior wood siding is readily available on the East Coast. It can be bought in longer length boards, which can make it budget friendly. However, it is not rot resistant; it must be sealed.

Redwood is a high-end wood siding popular on the West Coast. It performs well in all climates, but can be difficult to find in some areas. Although higher in cost, it requires less maintenance than other types of wood siding.

The right installer can make all the difference in a wood siding project. Get free price quotes from multiple siding contractors to make sure you get the best deal and the most reliable provider.