A: If you want to keep the wood and not have to paint very often, I suggest looking into an elastomeric coating. It is thicker than paint and can last well over ten years. Most professional painters can apply it for you.

If you want an insulating product, check out TechWallPlus or Oracle vinyl siding manufactured by Vipco (http://www.vinyl-siding.com). They have a 4.5 R value, have earned the Energy Star insulating logo and carry a no-nonsense lifetime guarantee. You could also add some blown-in insulation to your walls.

To find some professionals to discuss your options and compare the advantages and costs of each, visit Home Advisor. Submit service requests for exterior painting, installing vinyl siding, (and perhaps blown-in insulation) and be matched with the ideal service professional in your area.

by Kathy Maynard, reprinted courtesy of HomeAdvisor.com