Every year, Southern California gets more days of sunshine than most. Though the moderate climate is envied by the rest of the country, it also means homes must have siding that can stand up to the harsh UV rays. Additionally, it’s not only the sun that can cause damage to your home’s exterior over time. The moisture and salt from the ocean can cause weathering and corrosion.
Plus, as proven in recent years, Southern California is no stranger to rain, wind, snow, and other environmental elements. Therefore, it’s important to choose siding that’s known for its durability and high performance despite the weather forecast. Fortunately, there are several siding options that withstand the changes of the local climate.
Fiber Cement and Composite Siding Stand Strong Against Elements
Fiber cement siding like Allura and composite siding like Boral are both going to do well for Southern California homes. Allura has an advanced formula delivering a highly durable finish for protection against the weather elements from season to season. Meanwhile, Boral TruExterior™ won’t absorb moisture, which results in a longer-lasting look compared to traditional wood siding. Though these are the most popular selections, other alternatives and styles include:
IPE
A tropical hardwood with a warm, inviting look, IPE can be stained to bring out its natural, rich color.
Red Balau
Also known as Mangaris Red Hardwood, this siding option is commonly used as a rain screen but can be shaped to a specific design.
Borneo Mahogany
Deep in color and highly durable, the Borneo Mahogany siding option highlights the intrinsic beauty of the wood, making it a premium choice for many.
Shiplap
In terms of design, shiplap is both functional and fashionable. It forms a tight seal by the overlapping boards to protect against wind and moisture, delivering a modern farmhouse appeal.
Fish Scale
As the name suggests, this design involves putting fish scale shingles on siding to mimic the appearance of a fish’s skin. Also referred to as scalloped wood shingles, it gives the exterior texture and provides another way to customize the design.
An important factor to consider with hardwood siding, specifically, is maintenance. The side of the home receiving more sun will need more frequent upkeep, while any areas with tree shade can help prolong the performance. Furthermore, the sun will eventually eat away oil-based stains, which is why it’s recommended to stain your siding every few years to keep it in peak condition.
Read More: Innovative Options of House Siding: Compare Your Choices.
Getting Started with Siding Installation
Determining the type of siding is the first step, based on the area you live and the style you want to achieve. Once the decision is made, it’s best to hire a professional for installation. Siding installation requires precision to avoid water issues and to ensure the previous home exterior can be removed properly. Especially with regards to wood siding, it’s necessary to have flashing in place to redirect the water away from the house and support adequate ventilation.
At J&W Lumber, our specialists are knowledgeable in all the siding products we have in stock. And we’re readily available to help contractors source what they need from our store and assist them in loading their materials. Let us know how we can help you with your upcoming siding project. Stop by and see us today.