Your siding does two major jobs: it keeps the weather out, and it makes your house look great. But with so many materials on the market, how do you know which one fits your lifestyle?
Whether you want the lowest maintenance possible or the most authentic natural look, we’ve broken down our top five offerings to help you decide.
4 Factors to Consider for Your New Siding
- Maintenance Level: Are you a "set it and forget it" person, or are you okay with staining/painting every few years?
- Durability: Do you have kids playing ball against the house, or do you live in an area prone to high winds or pests?
- Moisture Resistance: How well does the material handle humidity and rain?
- Resale Value: Are you looking for the highest return on investment (ROI)?
Our Siding Materials: The Breakdown
1. Vinyl Siding — The "Value King"
Vinyl is a plastic-based siding that has come a long way since the 80s. It’s now available in hundreds of colors and textures.
- Pros: Most affordable option, never needs to be painted (color goes all the way through), very easy to clean with a garden hose.
- Cons: Can crack in extreme cold or melt near high heat; limited insulation value.
- Best For: Budget-conscious homeowners who want zero weekend maintenance.
2. Fiber Cement (James Hardie) — The "All-Rounder"
Made from wood pulp, cement, and sand — looks like wood but performs like concrete.
- Pros: Fire-resistant, rot-resistant, termite-proof. Excellent durability and curb appeal.
- Cons: Heavy, requires professional install, usually needs repainting every 15 years.
- Best For: Homeowners wanting the best balance of beauty, safety, and longevity.
3. Genuine Wood Siding — The "Timeless Original"
Cedar or pine that offers unmatched natural warmth and character.
- Pros: Beautiful authentic look, eco-friendly, can be stained or painted any color.
- Cons: High maintenance — must be restained/painted every 3–5 years.
- Best For: Traditional or rustic homes where real wood aesthetic is priority.
4. Aluminum Siding — The "Industrial Strong" Choice
Making a strong comeback in modern home designs.
- Pros: 100% waterproof & fireproof, excellent for coastal or wet areas, bug-resistant.
- Cons: Can dent from impacts, can be noisy in storms.
- Best For: Modern homes or properties in fire-prone, wet, or buggy areas.
5. Engineered Wood — The "Modern Tech" Choice
Wood strands/fibers treated for superior performance.
- Pros: Lighter than fiber cement, more impact-resistant than real wood, rot and termite resistant.
- Cons: Protective coating must be maintained if deeply scratched.
- Best For: Homeowners who love wood look but want easier maintenance and better durability.
Quick Comparison
| Material | Cost | Maintenance | Lifespan |
|---|---|---|---|
| Vinyl Siding | $ | Very Low | 20–40 Years |
| Fiber Cement | $$$ | Low/Medium | 50+ Years |
| Genuine Wood | $$–$$$ | High | 20–50 Years (if maintained) |
| Aluminum | $$ | Low | 30–50 Years |
| Engineered Wood | $$$ | Medium | 30–50 Years |
Vinyl Siding
- Cost: $
- Maintenance: Very Low
- Lifespan: 20–40 Years
Fiber Cement
- Cost: $$$
- Maintenance: Low/Medium
- Lifespan: 50+ Years
Genuine Wood
- Cost: $$–$$$
- Maintenance: High
- Lifespan: 20–50 Years (if maintained)
Aluminum
- Cost: $$
- Maintenance: Low
- Lifespan: 30–50 Years
Engineered Wood
- Cost: $$$
- Maintenance: Medium
- Lifespan: 30–50 Years
Which is right for you?
- If you hate maintenance: Go with Vinyl or Fiber Cement.
- If you want a modern, sleek look: Go with Aluminum.
- If you want classic, warm character: Go with Genuine Wood or Engineered Wood.
Ready to give your home a beautiful, lasting facelift?
Get a Free No-Pressure Siding Consultation →