Professional Exterior Painting or Siding? Which Is Best For You?

To paint to your heart’s content, or install long-lasting beautiful siding? That is the question.

Painting or siding? At Aurum Contracting, we hear this question all the time. In fact, we could probably write a book on it. But, a blog article should suffice and help you weigh the factors and make a decision you’ll be happy with. Some folks will have an easier time deciding if they have a preference for less maintenance or the classic look and feel of wood.

Now, jotting some numbers down on a notepad at the kitchen table, a professional paint job looks very nice with a lower initial cost. But, most folks have a little bit more writing to do and factors to consider. Let’s take a look.

HOW LONG DO YOU PLAN ON STAYING IN YOUR CURRENT HOME?

This question has to do with initial cost, or first cost, compared to the lifetime cost of painting your home or professionally installed siding. The fact is that painting your home is initially less expensive than installing siding, no matter the brand of paint or the type of siding material you choose (except for wood siding, of course). Years down the road, installing siding will give you a lower lifetime cost.

This is because siding requires less maintenance than a painted home requires. Plus, when you figure the costs of repainting your home for the next 20 to 30+ years, a quality siding installation will save you money. So, if you plan on selling your home in the next 5 to 7 years, you may be better served painting your home. Now, there is a wild card, as always. Remodeling Magazine’s Cost/Value report indicates that the increased value in property by installing siding recoups almost 70% of the cost of siding installation.

IS MINIMAL MAINTENANCE IMPORTANT TO YOU?

For some homeowners, the difference in cost may not play too much of a factor compared to long-term maintenance and upkeep of their home’s new cladding. If you really want minimal maintenance, then go with a beautiful siding option of vinyl, fiber-cement, or metal. You’ll be able to choose from many colors and styles, and your home will definitely have a brand-new look and great curb appeal.

PAINTING OR SIDING: WHICH LOOKS BETTER WITH YOUR NEIGHBORS’ HOUSES?

You certainly don’t want your home to stick out like a sore thumb on the block. So, if the homes in your area have more of a conventional look, such as brick and wood, you may be better served doing up your abode the right way with a fantastic professional paint job.

WHICH CAN YOU ACHIEVE YOUR DESIRED COLOR SCHEME BETTER WITH? PAINTING OR SIDING?

It’s true that today’s siding materials are available in a vast rainbow of colors. However, if you’re going after a unique color scheme, it’s likely painting will be your best option, as you can get any color your heart and designer eye desires!

At Aurum Contracting, we offer both professional home painting and beautiful siding options. We can truly provide a neutral opinion and help you sort through your best options with a FREE CONSULTATION. Call us today at (608)312-4343.