What Is Composite Siding? A Helpful Guide for Homeowners

When the time comes to replace your home’s exterior siding, one of the first choices to make is which material to use. You can choose from natural materials like wood or stone, but another popular option is composite. But what  is composite siding? And what makes it better than other siding options?

 

What Is Composite Siding?

Composite materials use a mixture of a binding polymer and fibers made from real wood, sawdust, or even glass. The result is a durable material that manufacturers can shape and texture to mimic the look of real wood grain. Composite siding comes in a wide range of colors and is a low-maintenance alternative to natural materials. There are several types of composite siding, including engineered wood and fiber cement.

 

Benefits of Composite Siding

Composite is a good choice for new siding compared to other materials. Some of its advantages include:

• Durability: Holds up to harsh weather and insect damage

• Aesthetics: Simulates the look and feel of wood at a fraction of the cost

• Energy efficiency: Keeps your home insulated from extreme climates and reduces energy costs

• Low-maintenance: Requires minimal cleaning and repair and doesn’t need repainting

 

Composite Siding Installation Process

Another common question homeowners have is how to install composite siding. While it doesn’t require a large team, composite siding is still a project best left to the professionals. The process involves:

• Preparing the walls
• Installing a water-resistant barrier
• Attaching the starter strip
• Securing the composite panels from bottom to top
• Ensuring proper alignment and ventilation
• Finishing with trim pieces around windows and corners

 

High-Quality Siding Installation Performed by Experts

Now that you know what composite siding is, you may still be wondering if it’s right for your next siding project. If you have any questions about siding installation, Woodbridge Home Solutions can help.

We have over 30 years of experience serving homeowners throughout Texas and Kansas. All our products also come with a transferable limited lifetime warranty on materials and a 5 year labor warranty. Contact us today for a free quote on composite siding installation.

 

Frequently Asked Questions

Is composite siding better than vinyl?

Composite and vinyl siding each have their advantages. The two are comparable in terms of cost, but there are a few reasons composite siding may be preferable for homeowners. Composite more closely resembles real wood siding, for example. It also holds up better in extreme climates and weather conditions than vinyl, which usually requires a layer of additional insulation.

 

Is composite siding the same as cement fiber?

No. While fiber cement and composite siding have some things in common, they are two distinct siding materials with different manufacturing processes. Fiber cement siding uses a mixture of cement and cellulose fibers. Composite uses glass or wood fibers and polymers, such as polystyrene. Each type of cladding can replicate the look of natural materials like wood or stone.

 

How long will composite siding last?

Composite siding is a durable material designed to last as long as 30 years. With proper maintenance, it can last even longer. The lifespan of your home’s siding depends on several factors like the climate in your area and the quality of installation.

 

What goes under composite siding?

Underneath composite siding is a weather-resistant barrier or underlayment to prevent moisture from getting into your walls. The material also gives installers something to mount the siding onto.

 

Can composite siding be installed over existing siding?

Installing composite siding over your home’s existing siding is technically possible, but we at Woodbridge Home Solutions don’t recommend it. For starters, it can make it difficult to identify wear or damage that can cause issues down the road like mildew or cracks. In most cases, the safer option is to remove the old siding before installation.

 

What are the benefits of composite siding?

Composite siding offers several benefits over alternatives like engineered wood siding. Known for its durability, composite siding is resistant to weather, insect damage from termites, and warping. Composite is also a great siding product for mimicking the look of real wood. Its insulating properties even make it an energy-efficient choice that can lower your energy bill.

 

What color siding has the best resale value?

Light neutrals like white, gray, and tan tend to have the best resale value. Other colors may be better depending on the style of your home and the look of other homes in the area. Light colors also have the added benefit of making your home look bigger.

 

Is installing composite siding worth it?

Siding replacement is a big investment for any homeowner. However, the benefits of composite siding will likely outweigh the cost. Composite siding can increase your home’s resale value, lower your energy bill, and even improve your home’s curb appeal.