With Florida experiencing some of the most destructive hurricanes in U.S. history, causing over $450 billion in damages since the early 20th century, it is crucial to safeguard your property against these fierce storms. On top of that, the value of insured property in Florida against windstorm and hurricane damage is the highest in the nation and continues to rise. So, it makes sense to select the right siding material and preserve the safety of your home and loved ones.
We all know that hurricanes bring torrential downpours, devastating winds, and the potential for catastrophic damage to homes and businesses.
However, the right siding material can significantly reduce the risk of damage from hurricanes and high winds. Homeowners and businesses can use hurricane-resistant siding to better protect their properties against the elements.
What are the different types of siding materials available and how do they perform in high wind and hurricane-prone regions? We are here to help you understand what to look for in your siding and the pros of cons of different options.
What to Consider with Hurricane-Resistant Sidings?
Several key factors should be taken into account. Indeed, there are many different siding options available. So, you’ll need to focus on their hurricane-related properties as well as how they fit within your budget and decor.
Firstly, you want to look exclusively for materials that are specifically designed to withstand high winds, heavy rains, and impact from debris.
Take the time to review the overall durability and longevity of the siding. You want a material that is able to withstand the harsh hurricane weather for several years.
Another important aspect to consider is how well the siding material fits within the look and feel of your home. This may seem like an unnecessary point, but aesthetics also play a significant role. You wouldn’t want a siding that protects your property but decreases its overall value and look and feel. That’s why you need siding options that complement the style of your home or business.
Wood Siding
Wood siding has a timeless aesthetic appeal and adds warmth and character to any home. Its natural beauty and versatility make it a popular choice among homeowners. Yet you will need more to sustain high winds and hurricane weather.
Indeed, wood siding is prone to moisture damage, which can lead to rot, mold, and decay over time. So, coastal regions with a high hurricane risk should avoid wood siding options.
Additionally, wood requires regular maintenance to protect it from the elements and maintain its appearance. So, it is not as durable as some other hurricane materials.
Brick Siding
It is easy to see the advantages of brick siding. Bricks are extremely durable and sturdy. So, brick siding provides a strong exterior that will withstand the test of time and high winds.
Besides, brick siding requires minimal maintenance, unlike wood siding. But is it a good choice for hurricanes? Unfortunately, the answer is no. We cannot recommend brick siding as a protection against hurricanes.
Brick siding can be costly to install. While brick siding is durable, it is not immune to damage. Repairing chips or replacing damaged bricks can be very costly.
Furthermore, brick siding may not be suitable for all architectural styles. It is tricky to customized if you are looking for a specific style!
Vinyl Siding
Vinyl siding is a popular choice among homeowners. It is highly budget-friendly and low maintenance. Besides, vinyl offers a wide range of colors and styles, so it’s easier to achieve your desired look without breaking the bank.
It is especially well-suited for humid climates and coastal areas prone to hurricanes, as it’s resistant to humidity and rot.
However, it isn’t necessarily the best choice when it comes to hurricane protection in Florida.
Indeed, it doesn’t do well with extreme temperatures and prolonged sun exposure. It can easily be damaged by heat and high winds, and in particularly hot climates, it may even warp or melt.
Fiber Cement Siding
Fiber cement siding is a popular choice. Indeed, it is very durable and resistant to moisture, rot, and insects. Besides, it doesn’t require a lot of maintenance, if any at all.
However, you need to bear in mind that it is heavy and can be tough to install, so you’ll be facing high costs. Unfortunately, despite its heavy nature, fiber cement siding is still prone to cracking and chipping. This is especially true in regions with extreme temperatures and humidity levels.. So, it may not be the best choice for hurricanes in areas such as Florida!
That’s why some homeowners are considering alternative options, such as metal siding for hurricanes.
Our Pick – Metal Siding
Metal siding offers unparalleled durability and strength, making it an ideal choice for hurricane-prone regions. It is very resistant to high winds and impact, which gives you the peace of mind you need when you’re facing extreme weather.
Metal siding requires minimal maintenance. Besides, metal siding is unlikely to rot or warp, which means you get long-lasting protection for your home or business.
For those looking for a specific style, there is a vast variety of finishes, so you can customize it. Its lightweight nature also makes it easy to install, reducing installation costs and time. Will my metal siding rot? Don’t worry, modern metal siding products are treated to resist rust and corrosion for several decades!
Overall, metal siding for hurricanes is a resistant and low-maintenance option.