Best Siding for Twin Cities Weather

Your siding can significantly alter the appearance of your Twin Cities home. But it does much more than that. Siding also serves as a protective barrier against the elements, helps improve energy efficiency, and contributes to the home’s long-term durability.

With siding being so important, Twin Cities homeowners need to understand as much about it as possible. This information includes how Minnesota weather affects the durability and lifespan of siding.

Here’s what you need to know about your home’s siding and Twin Cities weather.

Why Your Home’s Siding Matters

Siding plays an important role in your home’s overall comfort and energy efficiency. When your siding is working optimally, it will keep the interior of your home comfortable and pest- or moisture-free.

More than that, siding is also one of the largest visible components of your home’s exterior. One of the quickest ways to upgrade your home’s appearance is to plan a siding replacement project.

Of the many benefits of siding replacement, the following are the most important for Minneapolis-St. Paul homeowners.

• Improved weather protection
• Enhanced curb appeal
• Better energy efficiency
• Lower maintenance requirements
• Increased home value
• Greater resistance to moisture and pests

How Twin Cities Weather Affects Siding

Minnesota’s weather presents many unique challenges to home repair and maintenance. From heavy spring storms to ice and hail, building exteriors are especially hard hit. Because the weather in the Twin Cities can be so extreme, exterior components, such as siding and roofing, can have a much shorter lifespan than expected.

Additionally, small issues or damage can easily accumulate into larger problems. That is why regular inspections from a professional contractor, such as SMC Construction, Inc., are so important. Our team will help you determine when replacement is necessary and walk you through the entire process.

Because Minnesota weather has such an effect on Twin Cities homes, let’s examine its effects in more detail.

Heavy Snow and Ice

Twin Cities winters are known for their heavy snow and ice storms. Such common winter weather can lead to prolonged moisture exposure, snow accumulation, and freeze-thaw issues. If your siding is damaged or improperly sealed, the moisture from snow and ice can lead to rot, mold, or further deterioration.

Freeze-Thaw Cycles

Another winter weather issue in the Twin Cities is freeze-thaw cycles. These frequent temperature fluctuations can cause siding materials to expand and contract, leading to:

• Cracking
• Warping
• Loose panels
• Failed caulking
• Moisture intrusion

Hailstorms

Hail is especially hard on Twin Cities roofs. But it can also damage your home’s siding. Dents, cracks, and chips can also occur in certain siding materials after a hailstorm.

High Winds

High winds can be disastrous for siding, as they can loosen siding panels, damage trim, and allow moisture to penetrate behind the exterior cladding. The best way to combat these negative effects is to ensure your siding is installed by professionals, such as those at SMC Construction, Inc.

UV Exposure

Although Minnesota winters are very severe, they are not the only season that can damage siding. During the summer, sunlight can also cause fading, discoloration, and gradual material breakdown.

Common Siding Types in the Twin Cities

The best way to fight the weather-related damage your home can receive in the Twin Cities is to choose the right siding type. There are many different types of siding to choose from. Their pros and cons are listed below.

Vinyl Siding

Vinyl siding is by far the most common siding type in the United States. It is both cost-effective and durable. Plus, it is a low-maintenance option with many color variations. Other benefits of vinyl siding include:

• Affordable installation
• Numerous profiles and styles
• Resistance to insects and moisture
• No painting required

Vinyl siding withstands Twin Cities weather well. Modern manufacturers create products that can endure temperature changes and resist moisture and UV damage.

Fiber Cement Siding

Fiber cement siding is both extremely durable and has a premium appearance. These two factors have caused it to grow in popularity with Twin Cities homeowners. Fiber cement offers the following benefits.

• Outstanding durability
• Excellent moisture resistance
• Fire resistance
• Resistance to insects and rot
• Long lifespan
• Realistic wood-grain appearance

In Minnesota, fiber cement performs extremely well, making homeowners willing to invest in this durable option.

Engineered Wood Siding

Engineered wood siding offers many of the benefits of wood siding without its maintenance requirements. Some of the benefits include:

• Authentic wood appearance
• Greater impact resistance
• Improved moisture protection
• Easier maintenance than natural wood
• Wide variety of styles

The improved performance of engineered wood makes it a great weather-resistant option for homeowners who want a more traditional look.

Factors to Consider When Choosing Siding

In the Twin Cities, weather resistance should be one of your top considerations when choosing siding. Finding the right siding material means less maintenance and a longer lifespan, which will protect your investment and keep your home looking nice for years to come.

In addition to weather resistance, you should consider the following factors when choosing a siding:

• Durability: The better the product’s durability, the less often you will need to fix issues or replace it. Durable siding can handle the region’s severe weather and everyday wear and tear.
• Maintenance requirements: Homeowners are busy, and you may not have the time to constantly maintain your siding. Thankfully, many siding types require little more than occasional cleaning. Understanding your preferred level of maintenance will help you choose the right product for your home.
• Energy efficiency: The right siding can significantly increase the energy efficiency of your home, especially if paired with insulated backing or additional house wrap.
• Appearance: Make sure to choose a siding that complements your home’s architectural style and your personal preferences.
• Budget: Make sure the upfront costs fit your budget. You will also want to balance expense with long-term maintenance requirements, durability, and the product’s expected lifespan.

How SMC Construction, Inc. Can Help

At SMC Construction, Inc., we understand siding’s important role. As a locally owned and operated company, we are also intimately familiar with the challenges Minnesota weather creates.

This means our team is perfectly situated to help you inspect, design, and execute a siding replacement that stays on budget and on time.

Request a consultation today to learn more!