There are many different types of siding for homes, and each one has its own pros and cons to consider. Homeowners should investigate all their siding options, and it is wise to consider the cost to replace siding before making a final decision. This will help prevent unexpected future siding maintenance and repair expenses should any section become damaged.
Read on to discover both the pros and cons of 10 popular house siding types!
“Keep your face always toward the sunshine - and shadows will fall behind you." – Walt Whitman
Vinyl Siding
Vinyl siding continues to be highly popular including insulated vinyl siding options. Versatile vinyl siding comes in a wide array of style and color selections and prices are affordable.
Homeowners should figure in costs of vinyl siding repair as this siding is not as durable if hit by large hailstones or flying hard balls near golf courses.
Pros
- Affordable Price
- Exceptionally Versatile - Many Color, Finish & Style Choices
Cons
- Not as Durable
Fiber Cement Siding
This siding type is known for its longer wear and durability factor. It can look like natural hardwood with grain pattern, and the siding can be easily painted over when a change is needed. Expect to pay more for this type of siding.
Pros
- Reliably Durable
- Comes with Long Guarantee
- Mimics Wood or Vinyl Siding
- Can Be Painted Over
Cons
- Requires Higher Maintenance
- More Expensive
- Lower R Value
Natural Wood Siding
Natural wood siding is beautiful and eco-friendly. It is simple to change up the look with new paint or stain. This siding does require maintenance through the years. Initial cost is high, but the investment pays off later.
Pros
- Gorgeous & Easy to Change Color or Finish
- Eco-Friendly
- Repairs Are Easy
Cons
- Initial High Investment
- Requires Extensive Upkeep
Metal Siding
The potential high siding repair cost has many homeowners opting for a more durable material. Metal siding is worth the initial higher price because metal siding lasts, requires little to no maintenance, is resistant to fire and infestations of bugs and can be recycled so is eco-friendly to boot.
Pros
- Initial Cost is Worth It
- Little Maintenance/Upkeep
- Can Be Custom Designed to Look Like Other Materials
- Eco-Friendly & Recyclable
Cons
- Lighter-Weight Metals Can Dent or Scratch
- Coastal & Wet Regions May Cause Rust
Manufactured Wood Siding
Cedar shake shingles can last centuries and looks timeless, which makes many homeowners prefer manufactured wood siding that looks like the real deal but costs far less. This is made of blended materials, so moisture can be a potential problem.
Pros
- Looks Authentic but Costs Less
- Multiple Styles & Colors
Cons
- Moisture Is a Risk
- Mold & Mildew Damage in Wet Regions
Hardie Board Siding
Hardie board siding offers durability due to its cement content. It is rarely damaged in adverse climates or from ordinary wear. The siding colors are painted in-house for greater color consistency all around.
Pros
- Incredibly Durable
- Can be Custom Painted
- Color Consistent
- Topnotch Quality
Cons
- Shorter Warranty Than Other Materials
- High Investment
Brick
Brick has long been a popular siding option that is naturally eco-friendly, fire resistant and provides excellent temperature control. May need to be re-mortared later.
Pros
- Beautiful
- Strong & Naturally Fire Resistant
- Low Upkeep
- Excellent Temperature Control
Cons
- Grouting In-Between Bricks May Need Redone
- Not Many Design/Color Options
- Can Be Pricier Than Others
Stone Veneer Siding
Of all the many house siding styles, many fall in love with lightweight stone veneer siding. When considering siding repair cost, this one is more affordable. Almost any contractor can install these with ease. There are some cons though, such as weak areas may allow moisture inside the thin sheets causing serious damage over time and the material can't be recycled.
Pros
- Lightweight Easy to Install
- Affordable & Simple to Replace/Repair
- Looks Like Authentic Stone
Cons
- Weak Areas Can Allow Moisture In Causing Damage
- Not Recyclable
Contact a local siding installation contractor to learn more about it and all the materials available!
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