What’s the difference between siding and cladding?

• <div><p>Siding and cladding are two popular exterior wall coverings that protect homes from the elements and provide insulation, but they differ in design and application. Siding is applied directly to a home’s exterior, providing some insulation and basic shielding from the elements. In contrast, cladding is installed indirectly over furring strips, creating a ventilated air gap for enhanced insulation and moisture control. </p></div>

Does composite siding warp?

• <div><p>Composite siding is very resistant to warping that can affect some other sidings. Because of its composition, this siding doesn’t have the same risks of moisture damage that can cause rotting, buckling, and warping. Composite material doesn’t warp in high temperatures the way some kinds of vinyl siding can.</p><p>That said, composite siding is not entirely immune from moisture damage. It should still be properly installed so that moisture can properly drain from behind the siding, and protected by eaves and clean gutter so the siding doesn’t get repeatedly soaked by rain, which could lead to damage.</p></div>

Should you caulk between siding boards?

• <div><p>Professional installers typically recommend caulking between siding boards, but it depends on the material. With <a href="https://www.angi.com/articles/hardie-board-vs-cement-board.htm">Hardie board and fiber cement siding</a>, manufacturers don't recommend adding caulk because it can trap moisture in the joints or discourage flexibility in fluctuating temperatures. Consult your local siding contractor about caulking best practices before adding any to your home’s exterior.</p></div>

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Verified Reviews for Siding Service pros in Amston, CT

*The Angi rating for Siding Service companies in Amston, CT is a rating based on verified reviews from our community of homeowners who have used these pros to meet their Siding Service needs.

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Last update on November 19, 2025

Reviewed in May 2025
Full swap of old and broken siding
Edidel Construction, LLC
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Reviewed in August 2024
They were everything I wanted and more they got the job done right and efficiently, the matched the paint on the house exact to the siding on the garage, their customer service was great!
Parker home improvement
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Reviewed in July 2023
Job went very well. Very pleased with completed job of house siding, exterior paint of garage, and roofing. Will hire in future for home improvements.
CT Home Specialist
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Reviewed in August 2020
Good service, the north side of exterior vinyl siding is full of mold. They came then everything looking shinning clean in 90 minutes. Thumb Up!
PANORAMIC PRESSURE CLEANING
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Reviewed in July 2019
Very happy with the results and owner’s commitment to customer satisfaction. There were some streaks on the vinyl siding after it was cleaned and dried so I called the office. They called back immediately and returned the next morning to rinse the siding again. Regarding the sidewalk and front...
NorthEast PowerWashing LLC
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Reviewed in November 2016
We were so pleased with the work, we are currently using them for repairs to the siding on our house which was a disaster!
Litchfield County Home and Handyman LLC
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Reviewed in November 2013
Once they got started it went very well. Were able to match color of siding perfectly even though original siding 15 years old. Very pleased with results.
Peter L Brown Co
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Reviewed in August 2012
They can be a little on the expensive side, but I think they do a good work.
BIKERS EDGE
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Siding questions, answered by experts

Fiber cement shingle siding is made from a blend of common ingredients, including cement, sand, water, and wood or cellulose fibers. The composition of the mixture varies depending on the manufacturer, however, with some makers opting to include special additives to improve longevity and resilience, and some include dyes and pigments to create custom colors that don’t require painting.

Siding and cladding are two popular exterior wall coverings that protect homes from the elements and provide insulation, but they differ in design and application. Siding is applied directly to a home’s exterior, providing some insulation and basic shielding from the elements. In contrast, cladding is installed indirectly over furring strips, creating a ventilated air gap for enhanced insulation and moisture control.

The best siding to cover brick is vinyl or metal siding. Vinyl is low maintenance and affordable, while metal is highly durable and offers some of the best insulation on top of brick. Fiber cement is another great option. Though you can install wood siding on top of brick, it’s not as ideal.

Composite siding is very resistant to warping that can affect some other sidings. Because of its composition, this siding doesn’t have the same risks of moisture damage that can cause rotting, buckling, and warping. Composite material doesn’t warp in high temperatures the way some kinds of vinyl siding can.

That said, composite siding is not entirely immune from moisture damage. It should still be properly installed so that moisture can properly drain from behind the siding, and protected by eaves and clean gutter so the siding doesn’t get repeatedly soaked by rain, which could lead to damage.

Professional installers typically recommend caulking between siding boards, but it depends on the material. With Hardie board and fiber cement siding, manufacturers don't recommend adding caulk because it can trap moisture in the joints or discourage flexibility in fluctuating temperatures. Consult your local siding contractor about caulking best practices before adding any to your home’s exterior.

The Amston, CT homeowners’ guide to siding services

From average costs to expert advice, get all the answers you need to get your job done.

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