House sidings are crucial. There are a lot of reasons why you need to choose the perfect siding material and expert siding contractors. It has to do with the protection of the house, noise cancellation, and much more. So, here is what you should know about asbestos siding, why it can be dangerous, and some of the great alternatives to asbestos.

Dangers Of Asbestos Siding

Asbestos is a naturally occurring mineral with amazing properties like resistance to electricity, heat, and corrosion. But there is something that makes it a bad siding material. Here are some of the dangers associated with asbestos siding.

Airborne Fibers

First of all, even though asbestos is a solid material and it is installed as a pretty sturdy siding, there can be times when the loose fibers on the topmost surface of asbestos can get free and become airborne. This might not be such a huge problem until it comes in contact with your body.

There are numerous health-related risks when it comes to asbestos siding. These fibers can be highly irritating when they come in contact with your lungs or even your skin.

It Can Cause Lung Cancer

The airborne fibers of asbestos siding are not far behind when it comes to causing grave health issues, one of them being lung cancer. This is why asbestos siding is being removed as a siding in a lot of places. It is not a safe material anymore and it’s going to lead to a lot of respiratory issues, which can translate into cancers and tumors.

So, it’s always a good idea replace asbestos siding immediately, if you house has it, before things take a turn for the worst.

It’s Not As Durable

Asbestos is a good material, but it’s nowhere near great. Sure, asbestos is amazing when it comes to resistance to electricity and heat, but it loses major points when it comes to strength and longevity. Asbestos is a very thin material and it is mostly installed as shingles or sheets, which makes the material even more thin and susceptible to damage.

This is why you want to go for a siding material that won’t get damaged with the slightest of impacts. This is crucial because the integrity of the house depend on the siding. So, you want to choose a material that is durable.

Deterioration Accelerates The Problem

If you have a perfectly good asbestos siding that isn’t damaged or deteriorated, then there’s no need for you to tear the siding down and install a new one. This is unnecessary. Usually, asbestos becomes dangerous when the damage starts to eat away at the material.

If your asbestos siding is worse for wear and there is just a lot of damage on it, then this is the point when you want to seriously consider changing the siding. This is where it can pose a great threat to your health as well as your house.

Doesn’t Add Value

There are tons of siding materials out there. Some are also great when it comes to return on investment. Sure, they can be expensive, but that doesn’t mean that they won’t make the house look attractive.

Well, when it comes to asbestos, the same can’t be said. Asbestos is a very unpopular material when it comes to home value. Due to health risks involved, people don’t like the look of asbestos and they won’t buy houses with asbestos siding. So, you should get something else, especially if the siding is worn or damaged.

Asbestos Siding Alternatives

Now that you know that asbestos siding is dangerous, here are some amazing alternatives to it that are durable and harmless. However, make sure to hire an expert to remove asbestos siding because doing it yourself can be hazardous.

Vinyl Siding

if you want an affordable and amazing siding option that isn’t asbestos, then vinyl is your best friend. It is a combination of thin wood veneers and adhesives that are stamped together to give the best results. This siding is very modern in appearance and it is just an overall amazing choice to go for.

Vinyl is also available in a lot of colors, so you better believe that there is something for everyone, making this material all the more attractive. So, the next time you need more siding options, then definitely consider vinyl. It’s cheap and it works.

Wood Siding

The next option is the good ole wood. This is all-natural, very beautiful, and mesmerizing hardwood. If you want your house to look magnificent yet classic at the same time, then you need to go for wood siding.

There is something so warm and soft about wood, yet it looks so elegant and chic that your house will look like a million bucks. The fact that it has an amazing return on investment makes the deal even more sweet and it’s something that you need to get your hands on.

Fiber Cement Siding

If you want to go for something a bit more modern, fiber cement siding is the way to go. This unique material is a combination of fiberglass and cement. The two are mixed to form a material that is not only lightweight but also durable and strong.

Fiber cement is a very unique material and it’s making its way in the world of house siding. You don’t want to let this option go because it will completely transform your house for the better and you’ll thank yourself for giving it a go.

Composite Siding

Another very modern and durable choice for home siding is composite. Composite is also a unique material and it’s made out of a bunch of materials all in one. There is everything – from glass to sand and a bunch of scrap materials that are usually identified as waste, but not for composite.

It is made to ensure that no noise gets into the house. It also insulates the house and keeps it nice and cozy during the winter and very breezy during the summer months. Yes, it is a bit expensive, but it is worth the investment.

Engineered Wood Siding

If you want to go for wood siding, but don’t want to commit to the maintenance and care of the material, then engineered wood has your back. This material is exactly what it sounds like. It is wood, but it is treated to be much stronger than wood.

It won’t absorb water, it won’t decay, and it won’t leave you in the pits of maintaining it every single time. So, if you want to try a different but familiar material, then engineered wood is the way to go.

Conclusion

Asbestos siding is common in older homes but it’s not a good option. And now that we have so many better siding options available, risking your health with asbestos siding is not suggested. Contact siding companies Port Jefferson who can help you safely remove asbestos siding and install a siding option that suits your needs and preferences.