Selecting The Right Siding Supplies For Residential Projects Based On Your Region

At some point during every residential siding project, the question of material arises. Life would be so much easier if there were a simple one-size-fits-all solution. Unfortunately, that's not the case. As a contractor, it’s up to you to help your clients sift through different kinds of materials and select the best siding for their home.

Budget, personal taste and climate are all factors in picking the best siding option for your client. While most clients already understand their own taste and budget, you'll step in to explain how different materials fare in the local weather. Below, we’ll discuss how to pick the right siding for common climates across the US. 

Weather considerations

 When helping a client select siding materials, explain the significance of the choice beyond aesthetics. Namely, make sure to discuss common weather patterns in your region and how they can affect different materials.

Once a homeowner understands the range of conditions that Mother Nature can throw at their home, they’re more likely to be eager to choose materials suited to their local environment. In turn, informed clients are more involved and more willing to invest in higher-quality materials.

You'll need to help the client find something that they can afford, that looks great and that can withstand day-to-day weather in all four seasons.

Regular weather factors to consider include:

• Sun exposure

• Extensive shade

• Seasonal high and low temperatures

• Humidity

• Precipitation

• Wind

But siding doesn't just need to hold up against the everyday climate; it needs to withstand extreme weather, too. Extreme weather takes the everyday weather and cranks it up to atypical levels. No single kind of siding is universally weather-proof, however. That said, different materials are better suited to certain environments.

Selecting siding options by climate

While you can technically install almost any type of siding on a given home, every material has a climate it's best suited for. Below, we’ll guide you through which material is ideal for different US climates.

The Southeast: Humid weather

Southeastern homes need to withstand heat and moisture. Contractors should guide clients toward a siding resistant to the slow water absorption and mildew growth that can come from long-term exposure to high humidity and damp conditions. Some options include:

• Fiber cement siding: Highly moisture-resistant and not prone to warping. This material holds up even when subjected to the drastic swings between high humidity and dry spells. 

• Engineered wood siding: Moisture-resistant and long-lasting. This option has the classic look of wood, but without common concerns like termites.

• Vinyl siding: Resistant to mildew and moisture. This material is widely available, making it a budget-friendly option.

The Northeast: Cold and snowy weather

Cold winter temperatures accompanied by snowfall are a one-two punch: As the cold weakens siding, the snow packs moisture against the side of a home. Plus, extreme weather in this region includes storms that can dump feet of snow against the home, where it eventually melts along the siding. Durable, moisture-resistant options best suited for this region include: 

• Fiber cement siding: Minimal contraction in cold weather. Look for options that are optimized for cold, like James Hardie HZ5.

• Metal siding: Minimal contraction in cold weather. This durable option sheds ice and snow buildup.

• Brick or stone siding: Durable and insulating in cold weather due to a higher thermal mass, this low-maintenance option also presents a timeless look.

The Southwest: Dry, hot weather

Siding in the Southwest needs to withstand blistering UV, high temperatures and dry conditions. It must also be able to endure extreme weather, including heat waves and wildfires. Options include:

• Stucco siding: A great choice for hot, dry climates. Its fire-resistant and cooling properties make it a popular choice in arid climates.

• Metal siding: This fire-resistant material reflects the sun’s UV rays, helping control cooling costs. Metal does get hot to the touch, especially in darker colors, but that’s often mitigated by installing an insulating barrier to prevent thermal bridging.

The coasts: Wind and stormy weather

Living beachside may feel like a vacation, but there’s a level of practicality to consider, too. Coastal homes need to resist high winds, pervasive salt and moist air. Look for siding intended to withstand hurricane-force winds. Options include:

• Wood siding: Cedar shake siding, in particular, is a classic choice. It’s naturally resistant to salt and water, and it has a charming appearance. This is a high-maintenance option, as it requires upkeep against the coastal air and pests.

• Engineered wood siding: This material is moisture-resistant and durable. Plus, it has the look of genuine wood siding but requires less maintenance.

• Fiber cement siding: This water-resistant option gives the textured look of wood with less maintenance. Additionally, this material is heavy, providing more resistance to high winds.

• Aluminum siding: Naturally resistant to saltwater corrosion, rust and water, aluminum is a durable option for coastal homes.

• Vinyl siding: Another reliable option that’s resistant to salt water, moisture and mildew. While this material is easy to maintain, it’s more prone to wind damage.

The best option depends on the weather

Whether you’re installing in blazing sun, through rocky coastal storms or bundled up in the cold, there’s a siding that’s perfect for your client’s unique needs. From new styles to classic brands, QXO has siding options that balance performance, price and personal style. Open an account and ask about our loyalty program for all your siding and supplier needs.