Is Residential or Commercial Property Siding the Same?

The buyers and even sellers do not understand the differences and needs of residential and commercial buildings when it comes to buying siding materials. Siding is the outermost protection of the home, and purchasing the perfect siding according to your needs is the most important.

Siding materials also overlap greatly, so let’s explore the differences between residential and commercial siding by focusing on some essential considerations.

Key Differences Between Residential & Commercial Siding

Here are a few key differences:

Your Property Needs and Goals

The major distinction between residential and commercial siding is the goal each building needs to achieve. Not understandable? Okay! So basically, residential properties focus more on the outer look, insulation, and cost-effectiveness. Meanwhile, commercial properties prioritize durability, low maintenance, and compliance with local building codes.

For example, vinyl siding is mostly used for homes because it is affordable, comes in a wide range of styles, and requires minimal maintenance. However, this siding material is not common among commercial properties because they are facing harsh conditions like heavy traffic, high winds, or industrial hazards.

Brick and fiber cement siding is preferable for such properties because they are durable and have a long life. You can also take professional help from siding contractor Metro Atlanta.

Material Choices

Vinyl Siding

It is the most affordable siding material, but it needs little maintenance and is more versatile. Homeowners can choose from various colors and textures to give a more customized look. However, vinyl also has some drawbacks, such as cracking in extreme cold or warping under intense heat. For business properties, it is less used because it is not durable for commercial property in a harsh environment.

Metal Siding

Metal, especially steel and aluminum, is preferable for commercial properties because it can manage harsh weather conditions and is fire-resistant. You can say it is the most durable option for such properties so far.  They are also expensive and aren’t always aesthetically pleasing for residential homes unless an industrial look is desired. For commercial settings, they are more valued because of their resistance to rust, pests, and fire.  Plus, it requires little maintenance.

Fiber-Cement Siding

This is another durable siding material that gives a similar appearance to wood without heavy maintenance issues. Fiber cement offers properties a high-end look that appeals to homeowners for beauty and durability purposes. However, fiber cement is brittle during installation, and its higher cost makes it more common in commercial projects where long-term durability justifies the investment.

Aesthetics and Customization

In residential projects, aesthetics play an essential role, and homeowners usually prioritize siding that complements the style of their home, whether it be traditional or contemporary. Wood siding is expensive but preferable because of its natural beauty and customization options like clapboard or shingles.

In commercial buildings, functionality along with aesthetics are the top priorities, after all, it gives business a professional image. Siding materials like brick or metal are more favored for their resilience instead of their beauty.

Durability and Maintenance

The durability of siding is a major concern for both parties but is more prioritized among commercial property owners. Every siding material needs upkeep, but homeowners should not hesitate to do so. Residential properties like vinyl or wood siding also require painting and staining to prevent rot from time to time.

For them, durability is something else. However, commercial properties prefer metal siding, which is actually more durable and lasts for almost 50 years, which also needs little to no maintenance. It’s all about priorities.

Cost Considerations

The cost of siding materials depends on the material and the type of building. Vinyl and wood are less expensive for residential buildings, but materials like metal, brick, and fiber cement are heavily expensive. However, they offer more long-term value for commercial properties.

For commercial projects, the higher upfront cost is not an issue because they are getting the long-term benefit and save on maintenance and replacement. Brick, for instance, can last over 100 years with minimal upkeep, So isn’t it a wise investment for commercial properties?

Are Residential and Commercial Siding the Same?

They can be the same. There is no issue, but when the property owners analyze their needs well and contact the siding experts like expertsiding.us which handle both properties.  Each siding type offers its own set of pros and cons, and what works for one building may not be suitable for another. So, make a decision smartly!