Peter Martino, with close to a decade of experience in the
siding industry having completed over 1100 estimates and over 500 siding
projects, forecast in June 2012 in Siding Magazine that non-wood composites and
synthetic products are where he personally saw the most growth potential in the
industry.[1] He
still considered that for the foreseeable future there will always be a demand
for vinyl siding and fiber cement.
It’s only been a year since then, but I thought it might be
fun to see if homeowners are demonstrating more interest in synthetics and
non-wood composites, so that you can pick up on the trend, if it’s there.
It turns out that many people choose synthetic siding because
they find themselves sick of painting and all the maintenance that is required
on wood siding, but I couldn’t find any survey results. Non-wood composite
siding is made from polymeric resin and crushed stone. Other synthetic options
include fiberglass, even though it’s not a composite. Still it’s a non-wood
product and is fire-resistant. Buyers like the lower maintenance and durability,
according to siding professionals and home improvement magazines. [2][3][4] Although
it simulates wood, it won’t rot. However, they are to some, less attractive and
fake-looking. One downside is that composite siding is very heavy, which makes
it difficult to install.[5] An
upside is that they are impervious to wood burrowing insects.
As anecdotal evidence, according to Brian Leckie, president
of award-winning Aspen Exterior Co. of Arlington Heights, manufacturers of
windows, doors and siding are increasingly offering blended products that
combine the best of several materials in order to stand up to Mother Nature,
while also pleasing homeowners.[6] The crushed stone and polymer blend, capped
with an acrylic finish does not fade or crack and cannot absorb moisture. Apparently,
this composite is very popular in Boston
and other areas along the East Coast, according to Leckie.
While there isn’t enough statistic evidence to prove Peter
Martino’s prediction just yet, Tim Carter, an engineering geologist who began
rehabbing houses in the 1970s, suggests it’s not always about looks and
insulation. Often common sense will help guide you toward the type of siding to
choose. One realtor, Susan Waddle says that by choosing fiber cement siding,
her homeowner insurance went down 5-6%.[7]
According to MyDesign Home Studios “Choosing Sides: A Buyer’s
Guide to Exterior Choices,” manufacturers claim composite siding can withstand
hail, rain, wind and comes in a wide variety of colors.[8]
As the first defense against the elements, stone polymer
siding is great for fire and insect resistance, according to
GreenBuildingAdvisor.[9]
A good place to help decide what side of siding you’re on is
Consumer Reports Siding Buying Guide.[10]
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