If you are thinking of installing a siding on your house, read this first!
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When it comes to interior design, your options are many. Raw concrete walls, bricks, coating – everything is possible and available for every budget. In the USA and other western countries, however, board and batten siding are still the most popular. Today we're looking at the pros and cons of this siding, its average cost, and your benefits as a homeowner.
Board and lath cladding – what is it?
As the name suggests, this type of siding involves the installation of wooden planks (in most cases). There are two types: wide and thick panels, which form the main body of the fairing, and so-called slats – thin panels that are used for decoration and to cover the joints between the motherboards. The principle works in reverse – with cladding boards and wide battens (called reversed siding). This siding comes in a variety of shapes and materials. You influence that Costs for board and slat cladding and appearance:
- Cedar – simple wood that is easy to lay. Legacy Service USA LLC experts say it is one of the cheapest options.
- Cypress – it is quite expensive, but very durable wood. Although easy to cut, it comes at a high price for the whole house.
- Fiber cement siding are solid and durable. It's not as expensive as wood, but you need a real craftsman to install it.
- Aluminum and steel cladding are very durable and easy to care for. However, from an aesthetic point of view, it's not the best idea.
- Vinyl siding is a simple average between price, aesthetics, maintenance, and installation.
Things to Consider When Choosing a Facing Material:
- Weather and other possible hazard factors. For example, a Florida citizen has to think twice about bare wood as it absorbs moisture and tends to rot. Insects are another risk: termites eat wood very quickly without protection.
- House size and budget: The whole house can get expensive. You need to consider the materials and the cost of installation. Sometimes installing cheap and quick siding now than waiting and saving money with a bare house.
Let's consider the main advantages of board and slat cladding.
Board and Latten Siding: Benefits, Tips, and Costs
First of all, price doesn't matter if the siding is nice. Both natural wood and synthetic materials are as beautiful as they are and they are customizable: you can cover them with paint, plaster them, etc.
- Since the material is hugely popular, you will likely hit this siding in most neighborhoods. This means that you won't spoil the typical architectural style with board and slat cladding.
- Depending on the material, such a siding will last a long time. With appropriate maintenance, the service life can reach 30-35 years.
- In most cases, the boards are easy to install and work with.
- Such a siding is easy to replace in the event of damage.
- Don't forget that wood is the best material for keeping things warm. Because of its temperature inactivity, the house is warm in winter and cold in summer.
But let's not forget about the disadvantages:
- In regions with high humidity and lots of different insects, siding is not a good idea. Such a siding is a decoration. It won't stand hurricanes and tornadoes.
- Depending on the material, installation can be easy or difficult. You may need professional help.
The cost range is wide. Let's go into detail.
Board and batten siding prices
As mentioned earlier, the house size and materials are the main factors that affect the price (per square meter):
- Cedar – from $ 2.50 to $ 3.00.
- Cypress – from $ 4 to $ 20.
- Fiber cement – $ 0.50 to $ 5.
- Steel – from $ 3 to $ 7.
- Vinyl – from $ 2 to $ 7.
Take into account labor costs, which can vary from $ 1.50 to $ 5 per square foot depending on the material. In total, you pay an average of about $ 1500 per 100 square feet of your home.
Despite the cost, the advantages of board and slat cladding are out of discussion. Make your choices to make your home look great.
