Redmond’s long, wet winters are hard on a home’s exterior. The right siding, installed over a proper moisture barrier, protects your house for decades and transforms its curb appeal. Here’s how the most popular options compare.
Fiber cement
Fiber cement is a popular choice in the Pacific Northwest. It resists rot and insects, is noncombustible, and can mimic lap siding, shingles or panels. It’s heavy and needs experienced installers, and it will need periodic repainting over its life.
Engineered wood
Engineered wood siding offers a warm wood look with treatments designed to resist moisture and decay. It’s lighter and easier to work with than fiber cement. Sealing cut ends and keeping proper clearance from roofs and grade is essential in a rainy climate.
Vinyl
Vinyl is typically the most budget-friendly and needs no painting. It offers fewer high-end styles, can become brittle in cold weather and is harder to repair invisibly.
Natural cedar
Cedar is beautiful and naturally rot-resistant, and it has a long Northwest tradition. It needs regular finishing to stay that way, especially on the shaded, damp sides of a house.
What matters as much as the material
- The water-resistive barrier behind the siding, and flashing at every window, door and roof line
- A rainscreen gap that lets the wall dry out
- Clearances from soil, decks and roofs so siding isn’t sitting in water
Siding is the part you see. The flashing and barrier behind it are what keep your walls dry.
ELV Renovations
Thinking about new siding?
Re-siding is also the best time to replace windows or add insulation, while the walls are open. Learn about our exterior remodeling services, see recent projects in our portfolio, or contact us for an assessment of your home.
