Siding has always played an important role in the construction of homes. It acts as a protective barrier between a house and the outside world. By shielding against the elements, siding helps homes stay cooler in the summer, warmer in the winter, and well insulated year-round.

The concept of siding can be traced back to humanity’s earliest shelters. Ancient civilizations relied on whatever natural materials they could find— mud, stone, leaves, vines, and wood— to construct barriers against the elements. Though simple, these provided necessary protection from heat, cold, and storms.

By the medieval period, siding had become more refined. Wood shingles grew in popularity. While an improvement, these early versions were still rather vulnerable to leaks, rot, and mold. Over time, stone and brick became more common, especially during the Renaissance. These offered stronger, longer-lasting materials to protect against elements.

Though stone and brick remained common during the Industrial Revolution, metals and asphalt became popular alternatives. Asphalt offered an affordable, easy-to-install option, while metal provided low maintenance, durability, and fire resistance.

The 1950s introduced vinyl siding. This material is more affordable, resilient, and available in a wide variety of styles. Vinyl quickly became one of the most popular choices for homeowners across the United States.

Today, siding options are more diverse than ever. Homeowners can choose from brick, stone, metal, vinyl, fiber cement, engineered wood, and so much more!

At CR3 American Exteriors, we offer a variety of materials for you to choose from. Do you need to update or replace your siding? Call us today for a free inspection and/ or consultation.