How to choose quality siding: types, characteristics and criteria

Today in the market there are many materials for exterior and interior decoration of houses, but very popular among them remains siding. But, as practice shows, there are unscrupulous manufacturers who save on the production of cladding. Consider how to choose quality siding.

General characteristics of siding

Often siding panels are used to clad the house, less often - in interior design. Nevertheless, the material is considered almost universal and is suitable even for finishing the basement. The high demand for siding is explained by the main advantages:

• Excellent protective properties.
• Ease of maintenance.
• Long service life.
• Uncomplicated installation.
• Low weight.
• A large palette of shades.

The price of siding panels is significantly lower than other facing materials. They are attached to the purlin, connecting with each other with the help of locks-latches.

Today produced siding, imitating the texture of wood, stone, brick. With its help you can realize any design idea.

Types of siding

For the manufacture of siding is used a variety of raw materials, ranging from metal and ending with the products of processing. According to the type of material there are such main varieties of siding panels:

• Metal siding is manufactured from cold-rolled hot-dipped galvanized steel. It is available in a huge variety of colors, textures and sizes. Does not support combustion, resistant to temperature fluctuations, not subject to corrosion and the influence of rodents, environmentally friendly. This type of siding will last from 50 years. Often used for the restoration of dilapidated roofing.
• Wooden siding is considered the most environmentally friendly and cozy, but at the same time the most expensive option of panels. It is made of pressed wood with the addition of polymers. This material retains heat well, has a water-repellent effect and fireproof properties, is not afraid of pests, but requires regular maintenance, deteriorates from the effects of certain chemicals.
• Vinyl siding - the most budget option of plastic. It has excellent aesthetic characteristics, retains heat in the house, easy to install and wash. Quality vinyl will last up to 40 years.
• Fiber cement siding made of pressed cement and fiber cellulose with an interesting texture that imitates wood.Material is completely incombustible, has anti-corrosion properties and high strength, easily tolerates significant temperature fluctuations, provides additional heat and sound insulation.
• Basement siding is made of PVC with increased strength. The thickness of such panels - at least 3 mm. They are resistant to the effects of an aggressive environment, do not leak moisture, normally tolerate any temperature regime.

Features of the choice of siding

Perhaps after familiarizing yourself with the main varieties of siding and their characteristics, it becomes easier to decide what material is needed. However, we advise you to still pay attention to the key criteria that determine the quality of the panels. These include such characteristics of siding:

• For each type of material, the thickness indicator is different. But it is important that the thickness was the same along the entire length of the building material, otherwise the cladding will deform and lose its attractive appearance.
• The color of the siding it should be uniform on both sides. If the underside is white, the manufacturer has saved on pigment. It is better to consider another option.
• Good material should have high strength and at the same time be moderately plastic. You can check the parameter by bending the corner. If it breaks, the siding is of low quality.
• Holes for fixing should be even and the same on all panels;
• You can ask the seller for a certificate of quality. In its absence and defects in the material, it is better to choose another siding.
• Usually manufacturers offer a warranty for a period of 25-40 years, depending on the type of building material. Of course, with a quality product you will not need it, but the warranty is an additional evidence of quality.

Siding - an excellent option for interior design and facade finishing. Depending on the type, the material has different properties, so choose the right panels should be based on the specifics of their use.