Your Home

Increasing Your Home's Value While Improving Aesthetics

Posted: 8/12/2010

Housing costs don't have to put your back against the wall if you're wise about your home's exterior.

(NAPSI) -Here's a comforting thought: You can make your home more valuable and appealing while saving money on maintenance. It's all in the siding. According to a recent study conducted by Hanley Wood, LLC, the Remodeling Cost vs. Value Report, homeowners who replace their existing siding with fiber cement returned more than 83 percent of project costs upon resale--outranking window replacements, kitchen upgrades and bathroom remodels.

Why Fiber Cement Siding

• Some fiber cement siding incorporates a high recycled content, making it an eco-friendly choice. For example, CertainTeed WeatherBoards boasts a 50 percent recycled content.

• It looks like real wood but, unlike wood, is noncombustible, which means it can withstand high temperatures and doesn't burn if it comes in contact with flames.

• The siding is resistant to wood-boring insects, so homeowners can rest assured that termites and carpenter bees looking for a home will go elsewhere.

• Fiber cement siding is designed to withstand the elements. While wood is susceptible to decay and mold, especially when wet, fiber cement is more durable and will not warp when exposed to moisture.

• It offers long-lasting appeal. Most fiber cement siding is backed by long-term warranties--50 years for CertainTeed WeatherBoards--providing homeowners added assurance for many years.

• Fiber cement comes in a variety of profiles and textures to match virtually any architectural style.

• The color options are endless. Fiber cement siding can be painted or stained. In fact, WeatherBoards fiber cement siding comes pre-finished with ColorMax finish in a choice of 16 designer colors for the look of painted wood, or in six premium stains for the look of natural wood.

• Fiber cement siding provides easy-to-maintain curb appeal. It is perfect for busy families since the siding can be easily washed with a garden hose.

Other Ways to Increase the Value of Your Home

• Convert an unfinished attic into a bedroom or living space.

• Replace older windows with energy-efficient double-pane windows.

• Finish the lower level or basement of a home to create an entertainment area.

• Replace an existing entry door with a new 20-gauge steel unit and replace the lockset with a brass or antique-brass finish.

Learn More

For more information, visit www.certainteed.com. To access the Remodeling Cost vs. Value Report and download specific costs and resale values in your city, visit www.costvsvalue.com.

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