Investing in new siding for your home is a costly upgrade but a worthwhile investment if you pick the right material.
Different materials, from vinyl to fiber cement to stucco, have pros and cons. Each material will have differences in durability, maintenance requirements, upfront and long-term costs and aesthetics.
Exploring the best siding materials available on the market can help you make the right choice for your home’s exterior, ultimately boosting your curb appeal and protecting your family from the elements.
Siding comes in a range of materials, including:
Each material has its benefits and disadvantages, and choosing the right one for your home will depend on your specific style preferences and functional needs.
Vinyl siding is the most widely sold siding material, usually due to its affordability, low maintenance and wide range of colors and styles. It doesn’t need to be painted and resists warping and pest damage.
However, it may crack or fade over time and some homeowners have environmental concerns over the material because it is made of polyvinyl chloride (a type of plastic). With this being said, some high-quality vinyl manufacturers focus on sustainable practices to give their customers the benefits of vinyl while staying environmentally friendly.
According to The Spruce, the average cost of a full vinyl remodel is around $13,380. By square footage, vinyl siding costs around $7.62 per square foot. This all depends on the type (lap, vertical, shake, etc.) and brand of vinyl siding.
Fiber cement siding, made of cellulose fibers and cement, is one of the most durable siding materials. It is low maintenance, insect-resistant, energy efficient and offers a wood-like appearance, with one of the biggest benefits being its fire resistance.
However, with its durability comes a higher price tag. It also is harder to install due to the heaviness of the material, which can increase labor costs and elongate timelines.
Fiber cement board is available in planks, similar to vinyl siding. The planks can be installed horizontally or vertically, and there is a wide array of styles to choose from to achieve different looks.
According to The Spruce, it costs an average of $10 per square foot. The average cost, including materials and installation, is around $15,000.
Wood siding is perfect for homeowners who prioritize natural beauty in their exterior design. While it offers a timeless aesthetic and customization, it is also one of the most environmentally friendly options on the market if it's sustainably sourced.
On the downside, wood siding requires regular upkeep to maintain its charm and functionality. It is vulnerable to pests and moisture, so it must be maintained with frequent painting and sealing. Wood siding also needs to be checked regularly for damage.
According to The Spruce, the average cost per square foot is $3 to $10 but varies widely by the wood species and style. Cedar is the most expensive wood species, while plywood siding is often the most affordable. The total cost spans from $3,000 to $13,750 for a 1,000-square-foot home.
Known for its modern appearance, steel siding is extremely durable and fire resistant. It is available in several color options and can even mimic the look of wood, making it a great choice for homeowners who live in a dry environment but looking to elevate their curb appeal.
Steel siding is low maintenance and is resistant to moisture absorption and pest infestation. This allows homeowners to enjoy their siding rather than worrying about constant upkeep. Plus, it won’t crack or rust and doesn’t require any special on-site finishing materials like caulk or sealant.
While steel is a high-performing option for homes, it isn’t ideal for all weather and climate conditions. If you live in an area prone to hail, salty air or heavy rain, it can unfortunately be damaged by such precipitation.
Compared to materials like vinyl, it has a higher cost. According to The Spruce, it costs around $4 to $8 per square foot.
Brick siding has been used for centuries — and for good reason. It gives a home a timeless and classic appearance with extreme durability and fire resistance for structural longevity. Like fiber cement, it is heavy to maneuver and requires a more complex installation. This type of build is often accompanied by additional labor costs.
Solid brick or brick veneer siding has a range of costs. According to The Spruce, it averages between $9 to $28 per square foot, giving it a higher initial cost compared to other choices like steel or vinyl.
Stucco is very common in the Southwest area of the United States with benefits of energy efficiency, durability in dry climates and versatile design options. It’s not ideal for wet climates and has the tendency to crack over time. Stucco siding requires an extensive skilled installation.
According to The Spruce, installation costs around $5 to $6 per square foot.
There are multiple factors to consider when choosing the right siding for your home, including durability, maintenance requirements, cost and more.
Durability and weather resistance are incredibly important factors to consider when choosing siding.
Some materials, like fiber cement and steel, will last longer than others due to their durability against weather and the elements. Take a look at your climate and find a siding that meets your needs for resistance against UV rays, high winds, hail and moisture.
Next, look at the maintenance requirements. How much work are you willing to put into maintaining the siding?
Maintenance entails things like restaining or deep cleaning. Some options, like wood, will require more maintenance than others, like vinyl. For example, wood needs to be checked annually for chips, cracks or holes — if these are spotted, they will need to be filled as soon as possible to prevent water and pest damage.
If you go with a material that requires caulking during installation, it will also need to be checked regularly and replaced when necessary to ensure its structural integrity.
The level of upkeep is important to consider — if you pick a higher maintenance siding like wood, you need to be prepared for the time and additional cost it requires.
Cost and budget considerations are important. Be honest about your budget and what you’re willing to spend. Some materials, like steel, will have a higher upfront investment but less long-term costs due to its low maintenance characteristic.
Many homeowners update their siding to spruce up their aesthetic and curb appeal. Look at the style versatility for each option to ensure it meets your desired design.
Different materials will achieve different looks. If you want a modern feel, steel could be the best solution. Or, if you are searching for a more rustic aesthetic, wood might be a top contender.
Consider a material like vinyl that can achieve several styles and comes in various colors, textures, shapes and sizes. For example, installing vinyl siding vertically in a board and batten style delivers a farmhouse look while installing it horizontally can result in a more contemporary aesthetic.
Finding a siding option with design flexibility allows you to customize your home's exterior and match it to your unique needs.
If you live in a place with extreme temperature fluctuations like very hot summers or frigidly cold winters, energy efficiency should be high on your priority list. Some siding materials could require more insulation than others. Steel siding with its reflectiveness, will come equipped with properties that can lower energy bills.
While some home projects can be easily DIYed, professional installers have the knowledge and accuracy to ensure the best outcome. They know proper siding installation techniques, how to hang it straight, how tight to hang it and how to properly seal it, if needed.
Hiring professional contractors is especially important for fiber cement siding, as it requires backflashing and caulking.
Once your siding is installed, it’s important to maintain it to the best of your ability. Many materials can be deep cleaned with a power washer, but some only need a rag, hose and dish soap. Make sure you read the instructions carefully before doing any maintenance so you don’t damage your siding.
Additionally, inspect it often to catch any cracks, peeling or infestations. If any deterioration occurs, repair it as quickly as possible to limit its susceptibility to further damage.
Investing in the right siding for your climate, family and home is important. Wherever your priorities lie, the best siding material is the one that fits the needs of your family.
By choosing Rollex’s siding, you can have a curb appeal that will leave a lasting impression and a home that looks brand new for years to come. With high quality and pristine functionality, Rollex has a siding option for you.
Check out our range of siding materials to select the best option for you.