Exterior Siding for Contemporary Houses

Choosing the right exterior siding is a crucial decision for any homeowner, especially when designing or renovating a contemporary house. Siding not only protects your home from the elements but also significantly contributes to its curb appeal and overall aesthetic. With a plethora of materials, colors, and styles available, navigating the options can feel overwhelming. This comprehensive guide aims to provide you with a thorough understanding of exterior siding choices specifically tailored for contemporary homes, helping you make an informed decision that aligns with your vision and budget.

Understanding Contemporary Architectural Styles

Before diving into siding materials, it’s essential to understand the defining characteristics of contemporary architecture. Contemporary homes often embrace clean lines, minimalist designs, and an emphasis on natural light. They often feature open floor plans, large windows, and a seamless integration with the surrounding landscape. Common characteristics include asymmetry, flat or low-pitched roofs, and the use of sustainable materials. Understanding these elements will help you select a siding material that complements the overall design and enhances the home’s contemporary appeal.

Key Features of Contemporary Architecture:

• Clean, simple lines
• Minimalist aesthetic
• Open floor plans
• Large windows and natural light
• Asymmetrical designs
• Flat or low-pitched roofs
• Integration with the surrounding environment
• Use of sustainable materials

Popular Siding Materials for Contemporary Homes

Several siding materials are particularly well-suited for contemporary architecture. Each material offers unique aesthetic qualities, performance characteristics, and price points. Here’s a detailed look at some of the most popular options:

Wood Siding

Wood siding offers a timeless and natural aesthetic that can beautifully complement contemporary designs. It’s available in various styles, including clapboard, shiplap, and vertical siding, allowing for versatile design options. Wood provides excellent insulation and can be stained or painted to achieve a wide range of colors and finishes. However, wood siding requires regular maintenance, including painting or staining, to prevent rot, insect infestation, and weathering. It’s also generally more expensive than some other siding options.

Types of Wood Siding:

• Clapboard: Overlapping horizontal boards that create a classic and traditional look, but can still be used in contemporary designs with the right paint and trim.
• Shiplap: Interlocking boards that create a tight seal and a smooth, modern appearance. It’s increasingly popular in contemporary interiors and exteriors.
• Vertical Siding: Creates a sense of height and adds a unique visual element to contemporary homes. It can be particularly effective in smaller homes to make them appear larger.
• Wood Shingles/Shakes: Provide a rustic and textured look, often used as accent siding in contemporary designs. Requires more maintenance than other wood siding options.

Pros of Wood Siding:

• Natural beauty and warmth
• Excellent insulation
• Versatile design options
• Can be stained or painted

Cons of Wood Siding:

• High maintenance requirements
• Susceptible to rot and insect infestation
• Relatively expensive

Metal Siding

Metal siding, particularly aluminum and steel, has gained popularity in contemporary architecture due to its sleek, modern aesthetic and durability. Metal siding is resistant to fire, pests, and rot, making it a low-maintenance option. It’s also recyclable, making it an environmentally friendly choice. Metal siding can be installed in various profiles, including horizontal panels, vertical panels, and corrugated sheets, offering design flexibility. While metal siding can be more expensive than vinyl siding, its longevity and low maintenance can offset the initial cost.

Types of Metal Siding:

• Aluminum Siding: Lightweight and corrosion-resistant, making it ideal for coastal areas. However, it can be dented more easily than steel.
• Steel Siding: More durable and resistant to dents than aluminum. It is often pre-painted with a durable finish that resists fading and chipping.
• Corrugated Metal Siding: Provides a distinctive industrial-chic look that can be particularly effective in contemporary designs.

Pros of Metal Siding:

• Sleek, modern aesthetic
• Durable and long-lasting
• Fire, pest, and rot resistant
• Low maintenance
• Recyclable

Cons of Metal Siding:

• Can be more expensive than vinyl siding
• Aluminum can be dented
• Can be noisy during rain or hail (especially corrugated)

Fiber Cement Siding

Fiber cement siding is a composite material made from cement, sand, and cellulose fibers. It offers the look of wood siding but with improved durability and lower maintenance requirements. Fiber cement siding is resistant to fire, pests, and rot, and it can withstand harsh weather conditions. It’s also available in a variety of styles, including clapboard, shingle, and board-and-batten, allowing for diverse design options. Fiber cement siding is typically pre-primed and can be painted to achieve any desired color. While it’s more expensive than vinyl siding, its durability and aesthetic appeal make it a popular choice for contemporary homes.

Pros of Fiber Cement Siding:

• Durable and long-lasting
• Resistant to fire, pests, and rot
• Low maintenance
• Available in various styles
• Can be painted any color

Cons of Fiber Cement Siding:

• More expensive than vinyl siding
• Heavier than other siding materials, requiring professional installation
• Can be brittle and prone to cracking if not installed properly

Vinyl Siding

Vinyl siding is a popular and affordable siding option known for its durability, low maintenance, and wide range of colors and styles. It’s resistant to fading, cracking, and warping, and it requires minimal upkeep. Vinyl siding is also relatively easy to install, making it a cost-effective choice for homeowners. While vinyl siding may not offer the same aesthetic appeal as wood or metal siding, advancements in manufacturing have resulted in higher-quality vinyl siding that can mimic the look of other materials. For contemporary homes, look for vinyl siding with clean lines and minimalist profiles.

Pros of Vinyl Siding:

• Affordable
• Durable and low maintenance
• Wide range of colors and styles
• Easy to install

Cons of Vinyl Siding:

• May not offer the same aesthetic appeal as wood or metal
• Can be susceptible to fading over time
• Can be damaged by extreme weather conditions

Brick and Stone Veneer

While not technically siding, brick and stone veneer can be used as accent elements or to clad entire walls, adding texture and visual interest to contemporary homes. Brick veneer offers a classic and timeless look, while stone veneer provides a more rustic and natural aesthetic. Both materials are durable and low maintenance, and they can be combined with other siding materials to create a unique and visually appealing design. Keep in mind that brick and stone veneer are generally more expensive than other siding options.

Pros of Brick and Stone Veneer:

• Adds texture and visual interest
• Durable and low maintenance
• Classic and timeless look

Cons of Brick and Stone Veneer:

• More expensive than other siding options
• Can be heavy and require professional installation

Engineered Wood Siding

Engineered wood siding, such as LP SmartSide, is a composite material made from wood strands that are treated with resins and waxes and then pressed together under high pressure. This process creates a durable and weather-resistant product that offers the look of real wood but with improved performance characteristics. Engineered wood siding is resistant to rot, pests, and fungal decay, and it’s less prone to warping and cracking than traditional wood siding. It’s also pre-primed and ready to paint, allowing for a wide range of color options. Engineered wood siding is a good alternative to traditional wood siding for homeowners who want the look of wood without the high maintenance.

Pros of Engineered Wood Siding:

• Offers the look of real wood
• Durable and weather-resistant
• Resistant to rot, pests, and fungal decay
• Less prone to warping and cracking than traditional wood
• Pre-primed and ready to paint

Cons of Engineered Wood Siding:

• Can be more expensive than vinyl siding
• Requires proper installation to prevent moisture damage

Choosing the Right Color and Style

Selecting the right color and style of siding is just as important as choosing the right material. The color of your siding can significantly impact the overall aesthetic of your home and its curb appeal. Contemporary homes often benefit from neutral colors, such as grays, whites, beiges, and blacks. These colors create a clean and sophisticated look that complements the minimalist aesthetic of contemporary architecture. However, bold colors can also be used as accents to add visual interest and personality.

Color Considerations:

• Neutral Colors: Grays, whites, beiges, and blacks are classic choices for contemporary homes, providing a clean and sophisticated look.
• Bold Accents: Use bold colors sparingly as accents to add visual interest and personality to your home’s exterior.
• Consider the Surroundings: Choose colors that complement the surrounding landscape and architectural style of your neighborhood.
• Light Reflectance Value (LRV): Consider the LRV of the color, as darker colors absorb more heat than lighter colors.

Style Considerations:

• Horizontal Siding: Offers a classic and traditional look that can be adapted to contemporary designs with the right color and trim.
• Vertical Siding: Creates a sense of height and adds a unique visual element to contemporary homes.
• Board-and-Batten: Provides a rustic and textured look that can be used as accent siding or to clad entire walls.
• Mix and Match: Combine different siding materials and styles to create a unique and visually appealing design.

Factors to Consider When Choosing Siding

In addition to material, color, and style, several other factors should be considered when choosing siding for your contemporary home:

Budget

Siding materials vary significantly in price, so it’s essential to establish a budget before you start shopping. Consider not only the cost of the materials but also the cost of installation and any necessary maintenance.

Climate

The climate in your area can significantly impact the performance of different siding materials. Choose a material that is well-suited to the weather conditions in your region.

Maintenance

Consider the amount of maintenance required for different siding materials. Some materials, such as wood, require regular painting or staining, while others, such as vinyl and metal, are virtually maintenance-free.

Energy Efficiency

Choose a siding material that offers good insulation to help reduce your energy bills. Consider adding insulation behind the siding to further improve energy efficiency.

Environmental Impact

If you’re concerned about the environmental impact of your siding choices, consider using sustainable materials, such as recycled metal or wood siding from sustainably managed forests.

Installation

Proper installation is crucial for the performance and longevity of your siding. Hire a qualified contractor to ensure that your siding is installed correctly.

Installation Tips for Contemporary Siding

Proper installation is paramount to ensuring your siding performs as intended and maintains its aesthetic appeal for years to come. Regardless of the material you choose, these tips will help ensure a successful siding installation on your contemporary home.

Hire a Qualified Contractor

This cannot be stressed enough. Siding installation is not a DIY project for most homeowners. A qualified contractor has the experience and expertise to install your siding correctly, ensuring proper weatherproofing and preventing future problems. Check reviews, ask for references, and ensure they are licensed and insured.

Proper Preparation

Before installing the siding, the underlying surface needs to be properly prepared. This includes removing any old siding, repairing any damage to the sheathing, and ensuring the surface is clean and dry. Installing a weather-resistant barrier (WRB) is crucial for preventing moisture from penetrating the wall cavity.

Follow Manufacturer’s Instructions

Each siding material has specific installation instructions provided by the manufacturer. Following these instructions carefully is essential for ensuring proper performance and maintaining the warranty. The contractor should be intimately familiar with these instructions.

Proper Fastening

Using the correct fasteners and spacing them properly is crucial for securing the siding to the wall. Over-driving or under-driving fasteners can damage the siding and compromise its performance. For materials like fiber cement, pre-drilling may be required to prevent cracking.

Expansion and Contraction

Siding materials expand and contract with changes in temperature. Proper installation must allow for this movement to prevent buckling or cracking. This often involves leaving small gaps at the ends of siding pieces and using expansion joints where necessary.

Flashing and Sealing

Proper flashing around windows, doors, and other openings is essential for preventing water intrusion. All seams and joints should be properly sealed to create a watertight barrier.

Ventilation

Adequate ventilation behind the siding is crucial for preventing moisture buildup and promoting drying. This can be achieved through the use of furring strips or a rain screen system.

Quality Control

Regularly inspect the installation as it progresses to ensure that everything is being done correctly. Address any issues promptly to prevent them from becoming bigger problems later on.

Maintaining Your Contemporary Siding

Once your new siding is installed, proper maintenance is essential for prolonging its lifespan and maintaining its aesthetic appeal. The specific maintenance requirements will vary depending on the material you choose, but here are some general tips:

Regular Cleaning

Clean your siding regularly to remove dirt, dust, and mildew. Use a soft brush and a mild detergent solution. Avoid using harsh chemicals or abrasive cleaners, as these can damage the siding.

Inspect for Damage

Regularly inspect your siding for any signs of damage, such as cracks, chips, or warping. Repair any damage promptly to prevent it from worsening.

Maintain Landscaping

Keep trees and shrubs trimmed away from your siding to prevent them from rubbing against it and causing damage. This also helps to prevent moisture buildup and promote airflow.

Check Caulking and Sealants

Inspect the caulking and sealants around windows, doors, and other openings regularly. Replace any cracked or damaged caulking to prevent water intrusion.

Repaint or Restain as Needed

If you have wood siding, repaint or restain it as needed to protect it from the elements. Follow the manufacturer’s recommendations for the frequency of repainting or restaining.

Address Problems Promptly

If you notice any problems with your siding, such as leaks or pest infestations, address them promptly to prevent them from escalating into larger issues.

Cost Considerations for Exterior Siding

Understanding the costs associated with different siding options is crucial for making an informed decision that aligns with your budget. The total cost of siding installation includes the cost of the materials themselves, as well as labor costs for installation. Material costs can vary significantly based on the type of siding, quality, and availability. Labor costs are influenced by factors such as the complexity of the job, the contractor’s rates, and regional pricing variations.

Factors Affecting Siding Costs:

• Material Type: As discussed previously, different siding materials have vastly different price points. Vinyl is generally the most affordable, while wood and stone are typically the most expensive.
• Labor Costs: Labor costs can vary widely depending on the contractor, the complexity of the installation, and the geographic location. Always get multiple quotes.
• Square Footage: The size of your home directly impacts the amount of siding required, and therefore the overall cost.
• Complexity of the Job: Intricate architectural details, multiple stories, or difficult access can increase labor costs.
• Removal of Existing Siding: If you’re replacing existing siding, the cost of removing and disposing of the old material will add to the overall cost.
• Permits: Depending on your location, you may need to obtain permits for siding installation, which can add to the cost.
• Additional Costs: Don’t forget to factor in costs for flashing, trim, nails, and other accessories.

Cost Comparison (Estimates):

Please note that these are just estimates and actual costs may vary. Prices are generally per square foot, installed.

• Vinyl Siding: $3 – $8
• Fiber Cement Siding: $8 – $13
• Engineered Wood Siding: $7 – $12
• Wood Siding: $10 – $18
• Metal Siding (Aluminum or Steel): $9 – $16
• Brick Veneer: $15 – $25
• Stone Veneer: $20 – $35

When budgeting for siding, it’s important to get quotes from multiple contractors and compare the overall cost, as well as the quality of materials and workmanship. Look for contractors who are licensed, insured, and have a good reputation. Don’t be afraid to ask questions and negotiate the price. Remember that the cheapest option is not always the best, as low-quality materials or poor installation can lead to costly repairs down the road.

Conclusion

Choosing the right exterior siding for your contemporary home is a significant investment that can enhance its curb appeal, protect it from the elements, and increase its value. By understanding the different siding materials available, considering your budget and climate, and selecting the right color and style, you can make an informed decision that will result in a beautiful and durable exterior that you’ll enjoy for years to come. Remember to prioritize proper installation and maintenance to ensure the longevity of your siding and protect your investment. With careful planning and execution, your contemporary home will be the envy of the neighborhood.