As an owner of an older Chicago home, you may be contending with some exterior challenges, such as siding deterioration, particularly if your home has cedar shake siding. While it might look pretty, cedar shake siding – also known as shingle siding – has many drawbacks.
Not only is it flammable, but it requires regular maintenance including frequent cleanings and repainting or staining every three to five years. It is susceptible to wood rot, and not resistant to woodpeckers and other pests, which can cause some serious destruction.
If you’re the owner of a Cape Cod-style home and are seeking lower maintenance, more durable alternatives to cedar shake, what are your options?
A modern alternative to cedar shake for your Cape Cod home
Cape Cod homes, characterized by steep roofs, shingled exteriors, and symmetrical facades, are timeless and unfussy. They were originally developed by early settlers to New England in the 1600s. Many features, such as a steep roof to keep off rain and snow and a centrally located fireplace, were designed as an anecdote to the region’s frigid winters.
Historically – whether built hundreds of years ago or in the last five decades – many of these classic home exteriors were outfitted in small shingles, which are square pieces of siding. Traditionally, the shingles were made of wood. However, there is a much better option.
HardieShingle siding provides the desirable look of cedar shake with the easy maintenance and durability of fiber cement siding. Hardie fiber cement siding is made of Portland cement, sand, water, and cellulose fibers. These ingredients work together to create exceptional durability: the water dissolves the wood fibers and activates the cement, the wood pulp boosts pliability, and finally, the Portland cement creates exceptional strength.
HardieShingle mimics the look of cedar shake but is much easier to maintain. It is available with many design options, such as straight or scalloped edges and smooth and textured finishes, that allow you to create a customized look to complement your Cape Cod style home.
In addition, while wood is highly flammable, Hardie siding is fire resistant and does not ignite when exposed to flame, and will not contribute fuel to a fire.
Versatile HardieShingle siding
This resilient, versatile exterior covering comes in a range of hues from neutral taupe to vibrant blue. The panels are made with James Hardie’s proprietary ColorPlus Technology finish, which means that the color is baked on at the factory to help eliminate debris and optimize adhesion. Between coats, the company cures the finish in a controlled environment for an even stronger bond that resists chipping, peeling, cracking, and fading from UV rays.
Here are some more benefits of James Hardie siding:
- Stands up against woodpeckers and other pests
- Low maintenance
- Increases curb appeal
- A high return on investment
Want some help choosing a siding style? Read more about our favorite Hardie siding styles for Chicago area homeowners.
Expert siding renovations for Chicago area homes
At Siding & Windows Group, we understand that it can be frustrating when the exterior of your home deteriorates. We know you want to be proud of your home’s appearance, but are reluctant to engage with an unreliable contractor or a company with a high-pressure sales approach.
We have helped thousands of homeowners in the Chicago area with whole-house renovations or smaller projects. We are confident in our ability to provide the responsive, timely service that you should expect! More than 500 reviews from happy customers speak for themselves. Learn more about James Hardie fiber cement siding.
