News flash, California: Summer is rapidly approaching.

As we all prepare by taking annual steps for managing the scorching heat, whether that’s dusting off the outdoor lounge chairs, refilling the propane tank on the grill, blowing up your favorite pool float or unpacking your most breathable fabrics, make sure you don’t forget the real star of your summer party: your home.

A proper side can make or break a good thing, like potato salad to a burger. The same theory applies to your home. New exterior siding can transform a home from weathered and worn to clean and modern. The right color complements windows, shingles and doors, while a different texture can shift your home’s look from rustic to refined. New siding also boosts your home’s value and increases energy efficiency.

“If you’re looking for the most value in terms of a remodeling project, you should put exterior replacement projects, like siding, at the top of your list,” says Northwest Exteriors General Manager Skip Hunter. “A quality siding job adds real value, protection and curb appeal, giving you a great return on your investment.”

Celect Siding

When choosing new siding, consider the following:

  • Do you need to fix rot or peeling paint?
  • Are you looking for improved fire protection?
  • Do you want a cosmetic refresh?
  • How long do you plan to stay in your home?
  • Do you want 15, 25 or a lifetime warranty?

With advances in technology and design, homeowners have more choices than ever for high-quality, durable exterior siding that looks great and protects your home. Here are 7 popular options.

1. Vinyl

Vinyl is one of the most popular siding choices for its durability, affordability and easy maintenance. If you’re concerned about the “plastic” look, don’t be: technology has come a long way.

CraneBord® siding, for example, provides a classic, crisp look with a milled cedar-grain texture, straight face and deep six- and seven-inch profiles. CraneBoard siding gives your home a solid, authentic presence.

Vinyl siding insulates your home well and may even qualify you for energy incentives. It’s also wind resistant up to 160 mph, so you’re well protected from afternoon gusts.

2. Engineered Wood

Wood siding enhances the charm of bungalows and cottages. Engineered wood gives you the beauty of the real thing with extra durability. Plus, you don’t have to repair split or warped pieces, making it easier to maintain than traditional wood.

LP SmartSide engineered wood siding is treated using a proprietary SmartGuard process that resists harsh weather, hail, termites and fungal decay. It will look good on your home for many years.

3. Cedar

On the other hand, if you want the real thing, go for cedar. Not only is it beautiful, but cedar also resists rot and pests better than other types of wood. It’s also durable and resistant to spitting.

To keep your cedar shingles looking their best, add a protective finish to shield it from the elements. You may also need to periodically repaint or stain the siding to prevent weather damage.

If you’re considering cedar, you can’t go wrong with ShakerTown. The company offers a variety of high-quality cedar shingle panels.

4. Fiber Cement

Fiber cement has the look of stucco, masonry or wood at a lower price point. The low-maintenance, non-flammable, termite-resistant material comes in a range of styles, textures and finishes.

JamesHardie has led the fiber cement siding market for more than a century. HardiePlank Lap Siding protects homes in the hottest and most humid climates, so you know it can stand up to whatever California throws at it.

6. Cultured Stone

Granite and limestone give your home a natural, timeless look. However, it’s expensive, and it’s difficult to outfit an existing home with natural stone.

Cultured stone or stone veneer siding provides the look of natural stone at a lower cost and with easier installation. Boral Versetta Stone® requires no additional support footings, saving installation contractors time (and you money). Boral makes its cement-based stone veneer from 50 percent recycled material. With proper TLC, stone veneer siding can last a lifetime.

7. Cellular Composite

Cellular Composite Siding by Royal® is made from recyclable, state-of-the-art cellular materials. Cellular composite has the deep grain texture and heft of real wood, but with lower maintenance. Royal’s Celect® cellular composite siding is designed with interlocking joints to keep moisture out and to almost completely eliminate seams. Not only does it look good, it won’t warp or buckle. The material is 100 percent reusable and recyclable and helps keep your home warmer in the winter and cooler in the summer.

Not sure which type of siding best suits your home? Speak with a Northwest Exteriors home improvement expert today. Northwest Exteriors has served the Fresno area, as well as Rancho Cordova, Santa Rosa, Sacramento and Bakersfield, since 1995.  Go to TrustNorthwest.com, find the closest location and schedule your free consultation.