Choosing the Right Home Exterior Siding Material That's Best for You

PVC Shingles and PVC Cladding

PVC Board and Batten Siding

Fiber Cement Siding

Stone Veneer with Fiber Cement Board and Batten

PVC Shingles and Board and Batten

Metal Siding and Concrete

Wood Siding and Trim with Stone Veneer

Wood Siding and Trim with Stone Veneer

Wood Cedar Shingles over Fiber Cement Bevel Siding

Your home's exterior siding is its first line of defense against the elements and plays a huge role in curb appeal. However, with so many different types of siding available, choosing the right one can feel overwhelming. This blog post will compare some of the most common siding materials, highlighting their pros, cons, and overall suitability to help you make an informed decision.

1. Vinyl Siding: The Popular Choice

Vinyl siding is a popular choice based on its affordability and ease of maintenance.

• Pros: Budget-friendly, wide variety of colors and styles, easy installation, low maintenance (just needs occasional cleaning), resists rot and insects.

• Cons: Can look less authentic than other materials, prone to fading or cracking in extreme temperatures, not as durable as other options, not suitable for painting.

• Best For: Homeowners looking for an affordable, low-maintenance option, especially in moderate climates.

Natural Cedar Shingle

2. Wood Siding: Classic Charm, Higher Upkeep

Wood siding offers a timeless, natural beauty that's hard to replicate. However, it requires more maintenance than other options.

• Pros: Beautiful and natural appearance, can be stained or painted to match any style, environmentally friendly if sourced responsibly (FSC certified). Comes in a variety of patterns, including tongue and groove, bevel (clapboard/lap), shiplap, board and batten, and shingles.

• Cons: High maintenance (requires regular painting or staining), susceptible to moisture damage and rot, insects, and fire, more expensive than other options.

• Best For: Homeowners who prioritize aesthetics and are willing to invest time and money in maintenance.

  
  

3. Fiber Cement Siding: Durability and Versatility

Fiber cement siding is a tough and versatile option that mimics the look of wood but requires less maintenance. It strikes a good balance between performance and affordability.

• Pros: Highly durable, resists rot, insects, and fire, can be painted any color, available in various styles (including wood-look), lower maintenance than wood.

• Cons: More expensive than vinyl, requires professional installation, can be brittle and prone to cracking if not installed correctly.

• Best For: Homeowners looking for a durable, low-maintenance option that still offers the aesthetic appeal of wood, even in harsh climates.

AZEK PVC Shingles and Cladding

4. Engineered Polymer (PVC) Siding: Timeless Beauty, Long-Lasting Performance

PVC siding and cladding are designed to suit many project and style preferences while also providing exceptional durability and ease of maintenance. From the authentic cedar look of shingle siding to the flexible style of board and batten, these products deliver classic beauty with dependable performance.

• Pros: Highly durable and moisture-resistant, will not rot, split, or warp, provides an excellent paint bonding surface, and is insect-resistant.

• Cons: Not as many style patterns as fiber cement or wood alternatives, more expensive compared with other options.

• Best For: Homeowners who prioritize durability and ease of maintenance but still want the authentic-looking beauty of natural wood.

5. Metal Siding: Modern and Durable

While many people still have visions of the aluminum siding from the 1950s and ’60s, recent metal siding, typically of aluminum or steel, has become a modern and increasingly popular choice that is offered in a variety of contemporary styles. While metal is not the most expensive type of siding on the market, it is more expensive than many other options. The cost also varies depending on what gauge metal you choose.

• Pros: Durable, fire-resistant, low maintenance, resists insects and rot, can be recycled. It comes in a variety of colors, profiles, and styles.

• Cons: Can dent or scratch, can be noisy in heavy rain.

• Best For: Homeowners seeking a modern, low-maintenance option, especially in areas with harsh weather or fire risk.

  
  

6. Engineered Wood Siding: A Budget-Friendly Wood Alternative

There are several different brands, but engineered wood siding is typically made from wood strands or fibers bound together with a resin composite material. Many of these products have coatings to further protect against rot and insects. They offer the look of wood and the affordability of vinyl.

• Pros: More affordable than natural wood and fiber cement, can be pre-painted, can resist rot and insects better than wood. It is available in a variety of colors, textures, and finishes, as well as different styles such as panels, planks, and shakes.

• Cons: Not as durable as fiber cement and may require more maintenance than vinyl. The lifespan of these products is typically 20 to 30 years.  It can be susceptible to moisture damage if not properly sealed or if it becomes cracked or damaged. In my opinion, the fact that moisture, especially with our weather, can and will eventually wick into the boards makes these products one of the least desirable options.

• Best For: Homeowners who want the look of wood at a lower price point and are willing to perform some maintenance.

7. Brick and Stone: Timeless and Low-Maintenance

Brick and stone siding are classic choices known for their durability and timeless appeal.

• Pros: Extremely durable, requires minimal maintenance, fire-resistant, adds significant value to a home.

• Cons: Expensive, limited color options, can be challenging to install.

• Best For: Homeowners who prioritize longevity, durability, and a classic aesthetic, and are willing to invest in a premium material.

  
  

8. Stucco Siding: A Textured Look

Stucco is a cement-based siding that offers a unique textured appearance.

• Pros: Durable, fire-resistant, can be textured and colored to create various looks.

• Cons: Is susceptible to cracking, requires professional installation, more expensive than other options.

• Best For: Homeowners seeking a unique, textured look, particularly in warmer climates.

Making the Right Choice

Choosing the right siding depends on several factors, including your budget, desired aesthetic, and maintenance preferences. Consider the pros and cons of each material carefully, and don't hesitate to consult with a professional siding contractor to discuss your options and get expert advice. By making an informed decision, you can choose siding that will protect your home, enhance its beauty and value, and last for years to come.