Cedar is one of the hardiest wood species on the planet, thanks largely to its natural ability to repel pests, and that’s the primary reason it became such a popular choice for genuine wood house siding. Many homeowners also gravitate toward cedar siding because of its warm color variations and intriguing natural textures, which create a welcoming, earthy appearance that’s hard to duplicate with inorganic siding materials.
The downside of choosing real cedar siding for your home is the arduous maintenance required to keep it looking beautiful as the years go by. Although cedar is an exceptionally durable kind of wood, it’s still wood. If it is left in its natural state (unfinished), it will likely change colors due to weather exposure, and you may not like the results. If you stain it or paint it, your cedar siding will last longer, but it will need to be re-stained or repainted every three to five years to keep it looking its best.
James Hardie Fiber Cement Siding
The expense of real wood siding and the need for intensive upkeep propelled the invention of the first alternative siding material—aluminum—back in the late 1930s. However, aluminum siding was not without its own maintenance requirements, and it was unable to produce the same visual appeal of its cedar counterpart. Not until James Hardie® fiber cement siding came on the market in the early 1990s were American homeowners able to enjoy siding that boasts a realistic cedar appearance without all the headaches of frequent scraping, sanding, and painting.
Available in an array of cedar shingle, board-and-batten, and traditional lap siding styles, Hardie siding offers the distinctive look of genuine wood while requiring only an occasional cleaning to continue looking gorgeous for many years. Moreover, Hardie siding also rivals cedar siding when it comes to insulative properties, making Hardie siding a terrific choice for homeowners who want to boost the energy efficiency of their homes.
If you live in the Kansas City metro area and would like to explore options for ultra-durable and low-maintenance siding that resembles genuine wood, turn to Johnson County Siding & Window Co. We expertly install a variety of siding options, including Hardie fiber cement siding and premium vinyl siding from Mastic, another manufacturer that offers selections with convincing woodgrain textures. Contact us today for more information.
