Discover the Greenest Home Facade Options: 4 Types of Eco-Friendly Siding Solutions

When it comes to selecting the most eco-friendly siding for a building, there are a number of considerations to take into account. Different types of siding provide different benefits and disadvantages that factor into what could be considered the “best” type of siding. However, there are four main types of siding that are usually considered more eco-friendly than other options: wood siding, engineered wood, aluminum, and masonry or stucco.

Wood Siding is one of the most environmentally friendly siding options. It is natural, not requiring a lot of chemical processing, although, over time, the maintenance of wood siding may become costly to keep the siding looking in clean condition. Even those homeowners on tight budgets can check out options like cedar, which may be more expensive in the short-term but environmentally friendly in the long run. Even better, companies are looking into solutions like rubberwood to access wood sources without damaging the environment.

Engineered wood products, such as plywood, may be less expensive than hardwood, but they usually require more maintenance. On a positive note, it is still composed of wood and not materials like vinyl that require many polluting manufacturing processes.

Aluminum siding does not have the same environmental benefits as the other types of eco-friendly siding, but it does require less maintenance than the other three options. Additionally, at the end of its useful life, aluminum can be recycled, which adds to its eco-friendliness.

Finally, masonry or stucco siding is a great choice for those looking for a more natural material to use for their siding. The fact that masonry siding materials are less hard on the environment than vinyl or other processed materials make them attractive. Similarly, there is not much maintenance required for masonry siding, making it a more eco-friendly choice.

Ultimately, considering different aspects such as the cost of materials, transportation, and maintenance will help property owners determine the best types of siding that are the most eco-friendly. Stick to one type of siding for longer periods of time to reduce wasteful environmental impact and consider talking to a LEED or green building certified professional for expert advice and information on the best siding choice for any particular location, climate and other factors.