With outdoor renovations growing in popularity, local homeowners are seeking the best options to refresh their exteriors, writes Terri Akman for The Philadelphia Inquirer.

And while there are numerous materials from which to choose, both cost and aesthetics vary.

Vinyl siding is considered to be most affordable, but it can sag over time in the sun. Other affordable materials are metal and stucco, but neither of these will last as long and are not as interesting as some of the other exteriors, said Ed Rudloff, owner of Rudloff Custom Builders in West Chester.

Stone veneer with Hardie plank siding is currently the most popular. This offers a clean look, along with durability, affordability, and can easily be customized.

Another important point when choosing a material is to take the area’s climate into account.

“We make our products engineered for climate, so specifically in the Northeast, we are engineered for snow, rain, and freezing temperatures,” said Brian Magness, sales manager at James Hardie in West Chester. “Our product mimics the charm and craftsman style and look of wood but with less maintenance.”

Read more about options for an exterior refresh to your home in The Philadelphia Inquirer.