Siding materials come in various types, including vinyl, aluminum, wood, fiber cement, brick, and others. Choosing the right materials is crucial to protect your home, especially in the harsh Minnesota climate. Also, picking the right siding material will boost your home’s curb appeal, energy efficiency, and overall comfort.
You’re probably wondering: Which siding should I get for my home? In this post, our exterior specialists have created a rundown of various siding options, including their types, pros and cons, and costs, to help you choose the best material. We also answered some questions many of our clients ask, so keep reading to learn more!
Types of sidings
Here at Boelter Is Better, we have project advisors who can help you choose the siding that best suits your home. We start by discussing different types of siding materials, such as the following:
1. Aluminum siding
Aluminum siding is a popular choice for both residential and commercial properties, thanks to its resistance to rust and aesthetic appeal. It’s also low-maintenance and can mimic the appearance of natural wood with custom finishes.
Moreover, aluminum siding is fire-resistant and doesn’t rot, attract pests, or harbor molds. However, it can be prone to denting, and its finishing may fade over time, especially when exposed to intense sunlight.
Overall, aluminum siding can last for 40 years or more with proper upkeep. It’s also eco-friendly and easily recyclable in case you decide to replace it with a new material in the future.
Aluminum siding types
Aluminum siding is available in two main types or styles: longboard and corrugated. Here’s a quick comparison of these two types:
- Longboard aluminum siding. It uses flat, wide, long, or slightly textured aluminum panels for a traditional look. Also, longboard aluminum siding is often seen on custom homes and typically costs more than the corrugated type. However, it tends to show dents more easily than corrugated siding.
- Corrugated aluminum siding. It features a ridged or wavy pattern with peaks and valleys, creating a rustic and industrial look. Compared to longboard, corrugated siding is more affordable and low-maintenance since it’s installed in overlapping panels that help with water runoff.
Colors
Aluminum siding is available in a wide range of colors and finishes, making it easy to match in almost every property.
Some of the popular color options for aluminum siding include whites and off-whites, beige and tan, greens, earth tones, and a variety of other colors. You can also request a custom color to suit your home’s color palette.
Aside from that, aluminum siding can mimic various finishes, such as wood grains and stucco. You can also get it in matte, satin, glossy, or baked-on coatings.
While the color and finish of aluminum siding may eventually fade due to natural wear and tear, you can easily repaint or refinish it.
Pros
- Fire, pest, rot, and rust-resistant
- Holds up well against wind, rain, and snow
- Low-maintenance and easy-to-clean
- More affordable than wood or fiber cement siding
- Environment-friendly since it’s easy to recycle
- Lightweight and less likely to require additional structural support than other metal siding materials
Cons
- More prone to dings and dents than other siding materials
- Limited insulating characteristics, so you need to invest in a good insulation for energy-efficiency
- Can be noisy during hailstorms or heavy rain unless it’s properly insulated
Cost of aluminum siding
National average cost of aluminum siding: $11,750
Corrugated aluminum siding: $3 to $7 per sq. ft.
Longboard aluminum siding: $14 to $18 per sq. ft.
2. Vinyl siding
Vinyl siding is made of a PVC material, popular for its affordability and customizability. It’s also pest-resistant and low-maintenance, making it a good option if you’re re-siding your home on a budget.
Aside from that, vinyl siding is available in a wide range of colors, finishes, and styles without breaking the bank. Since manufacturers can mix PVC with dyes during production, you can get vinyl siding on your choice of color without the added paint job.
Moreover, vinyl siding has a lifespan of 20 to 40 years. Just take note that vinyl siding has low insulating power and minimal curb appeal compared to other siding types.
Vinyl siding types
There are a wide range of vinyl siding styles, but the following are the most popular ones:
- Horizontal vinyl siding. This is the classic vinyl siding style, available in several styles, including Dutch Lap, Lap Siding, and Beaded designs. Horizontal siding is easy to maintain, thanks to good water runoff, but it may appear too plain if you don’t opt for textured finishes.
- Vertical vinyl siding. This vinyl siding is installed vertically and available in several styles, including board & batten and flat vertical. Vertical vinyl sidings add a farmhouse touch to your home, but it requires professional installation to avoid water seepage between panels.
- Vinyl shakes & shingles siding. This mimics the appearance of a natural wood shake and shingle, which is composed of thick shake material and thinner shingles. Each piece overlaps each other, adding texture to your exterior. It also gives a cottage-style and craftsman touch to your home.
- Insulated vinyl siding. This is a type of vinyl siding backed with foam insulation for enhanced thermal performance. Insulated vinyl siding is popular in places with colder climates, such as Minnesota. It’s thicker than its non-insulated counterparts, but it makes your siding more rigid, soundproof, and durable against warping.
Colors
You can choose from a wide variety of factory-applied vinyl siding colors and finishes. Some of the most popular colors for homeowners are whites, blues, neutrals, reds, and greens. You can also request a custom color, and we will source it for you, ensuring that your new siding will match your home’s motif.
In terms of finishes, vinyl can mimic natural materials, such as wood grains and stucco. You can also opt for a flat, smooth finish or a certain level of gloss for a sleek appearance.
Pros
- Affordable and very popular with homeowners
- Low-maintenance and weather-resistant
- Plenty of color and finish options to suit every home
- Doesn’t need additional painting or finishing
- Good impact resistance despite its light weight
- Easier and faster to install than other siding types
Cons
- Minimal curb appeal compared to wood
- Will warp and become brittle over time
- Difficult to exact color and texture for repairs due to fading
- Can melt or warp when exposed to heat sources like grills or heat vents
- Tends to have a less natural look than other materials
Cost of vinyl siding
National average cost of vinyl siding: $12,227
Horizontal vinyl siding: $2 to $4 per sq. ft.
Vertical vinyl siding: $2.50 to $5 per sq. ft.
Vinyl shakes & shingles siding: $3.50 to $6 per sq. ft.
Insulated vinyl siding: $4 to $7 per sq. ft.
3. Fiber cement siding
Fiber cement siding is made of sand, cement, and cellulose fibers to create a durable yet malleable material, with Hardie Board as one of its popular brands. This allows installers to cut, style, and shape the siding easily without compromising its resistance to harsh outdoor elements. Also, fiber cement siding can be painted, stained, and finished to suit your taste.
Fiber cement siding is also low-maintenance and rarely harbors mold or mildew. Just avoid pressure washing or using harsh cleaners on this siding to avoid damage.
Thanks to its durability, fiber cement siding can last for up to 50 years. Its finish may chip after 10 to 15 years, but you can easily paint the cement boards yourself.
Fiber cement types
There are several types of fiber cement siding you can consider for your home, such as the following:
- Lap Siding (Horizontal Planks). This mimics the appearance of a traditional clapboard but with better resistance to weather, pests, and wear and tear. If you want a classic wood siding appearance for a lower price than natural wood, fiber cement lap siding would be a good option.
- Shingle Siding. Fiber cement siding with a shingle style imitates the classic wood shakes & shingles. This siding is ideal for upper sections of your home if you want to add a decorative touch and texture.
- Vertical Board and Batten. Board-and-batten is reminiscent of classic barns and farmhouses, giving your home a rustic look. But instead of wood that’s susceptible to pests, you can get it in fiber cement for added durability.
- Stucco-Style Panels. If your home has a Southwestern or Mediterranean style, stucco-style fiber cement siding would be a fitting choice. It gives your home an attractive, rough finish without the risk of cracking or pest infestations.
- Stone or Brick Textures. Fiber cement siding is also available in embossed or molded panels to resemble stone, brick, and other masonry finishes. The best part is that fiber cement siding is more weather-resistant than brick or stone veneer, not to mention that it’s also easier to install.
Colors
Similar to vinyl, fiber cement siding can be painted or stained with almost any color you prefer. Here are some of the popular colors among homeowners:
- Classic White
- Warm Earth Tones
- Charcoal and Dark Gray
- Coastal Blues
- Bold Navy
- Forest Green
- Rich Red Tone
Pros
- Excellent durability against rotting, insect pests, warping, and fire
- Good insulation qualities to keep your home comfortable
- Versatile colors and finishes that can mimic natural wood and masonry
- Long lifespan of 50 to 75 years with proper care
- Highly customizable and paintable
- Holds up well against hurricane-strength winds
Cons
- Slightly on the expensive side
- More sensitive at joints, which can lead to water leaks if not installed properly
- Heavier material than vinyl or aluminum
- Requires professional installation since it requires special tools
Cost of fiber cement siding
National average cost of fiber cement siding: $14,886
Lap siding: $4.50 to $9.50 per sq. ft.
Shingle fiber cement siding: $5 to $14 per sq. ft.
Vertical board and batten: $5.50 to $11.50 per sq. ft.
Stucco-style fiber cement siding: $7 to $12 per sq. ft.
Stone or brick-style fiber cement siding: $11 to $20 per sq. ft.
4. Wood siding
If you want to give your home a traditional yet luxurious appeal, nothing speaks curb appeal than natural wood siding. You can choose from various wood materials, including pine, fir, redwood, barnwood, cypress, spruce, and more.
Wood siding can also boost your home’s resale value better than other siding materials. It’s also customizable and can handle extreme temperatures. But as much as you’d love wood siding for its aesthetics, it can be prone to rot, insect pests, and buckling.
But if installed and sealed properly, wood siding can last an average of 20 to 30 years. Durable wood sidings like redwood and cedar may last longer for 40 to 50 years.
Wood siding types
Wood siding comes in a variety of styles, and the right choice depends on the function and aesthetics you want to achieve. Here are some of the main styles available nowadays:
- Tongue and groove. As the name implies, tongue and groove wood siding is milled with one recessed groove and a corresponding tongue. This way, they fit snugly together once installed, creating a tight joint. Overall, this wood siding type is extra stable, but can be challenging to repair individual boards later on.
- Shake. Shake wood siding are made of pieces of wood splits called “shakes”. They overlap horizontally during installation and are often made of durable cedar. Shake wood siding has a beautiful rustic look, but can be expensive to install and has the potential to trap moisture.
- Shingles. Similar to shakes, shingle wood siding is made of sawn, not split, wood pieces. They have smoother edges and can be DIY-ed, depending on your skill level. Overall, shingle wood siding has a clean and uniform look, but it must be stained regularly.
- Board and batten. Board and batten siding consists of vertical boards with wood strips (battens) nailed to cover the spaces between them. This style adds additional wind and moisture resistance, plus it also imbibes a classic look that many homeowners love. However, they are best for large homes and less for smaller properties.
- Split logs. Split log siding is made from plank cuts of full logs, giving it a rounded surface that resembles a cabin-like exterior. However, split log siding doesn’t look like natural modern houses and is best used on mountain-style homes.
- Lap siding. Lap siding, also known as clapboard, features one edge slightly wider than the other. It’s installed in an overlapping manner where it also got its name. Lap siding is easy to DIY, but you must pay close attention to any gaps where insects may enter.
Colors
Wood siding is extremely versatile in terms of colors and finishes. First, you can retain the natural wood grain appearance by using clear sealers and semi-transparent stains.
If you want to match it with your home’s motif, you can also paint wood siding. You can get custom shades in different sheens based on your desired look.
As much as possible, use UV-resistant finishes to reduce fading and rotting. Also, don’t forget to seal your wood siding to prevent water damage.
Pros
- Unique wood grains are naturally aesthetic
- Can be painted and stained in limitless colors and finishes
- Unbeatable curb appeal and boost in your home’s resale value
- Customizable to any style, easily matching any home
- Good sound and temperature insulation
- Can age beautifully with proper maintenance
Cons
- Tends to be high maintenance since wood is prone to insects, rot, and water damage
- One of the most expensive types of siding material
- Complex installation that requires a professional
- Low fire resistance, unless treated with fire-retardant chemicals
Cost of wood siding
National average cost of wood siding: $12,500 to $57,500
Pine wood siding: $1 to $5 per sq. ft.
Douglas fir siding: $3 to $5 per sq. ft.
Cedar wood siding: $3 to $30 per sq. ft.
Hardwood siding: $5 to $20 per sq. ft.
Cypress siding: $5 to $12 per sq. ft.
Redwood siding: $4 to $20 per sq. ft.
5. Brick veneer siding
Brick veneer siding is another classic option with excellent weather resistance and durability. It’s often made of brick strips, brick layers, or synthetic bricks, creating a solid brick wall appearance. This will give your home the curb appeal of a solid brick building minus to high cost and complicated installation.
Aside from being stylish, brick veneer siding provides extra protection against moisture, extreme temperatures, and winds. However, it must be installed correctly to avoid hiding mold and pest infestations underneath.
If properly maintained, your brick veneer siding can last for up to 100 years. This long lifespan means you get the most out of your home improvement investment.
Brick veneer siding types
There are many types of bricks, and so are their veneer siding counterparts. If you’re considering getting brick veneer sidings, here are the four main types you can get:
- Face brick veneer. Face brick veneer siding has an appearance closest to that of a solid brick wall. It uses standard-sized bricks as an outer layer of your house, which is commonly used to cover lower wall areas. However, please note that face brick veneers will significantly increase the thickness of your exterior walls.
- Thin brick veneer. Thin brick veneer strips are still real bricks, but much thinner than face brick veneers. It’s similar to wall tile, which makes the installation process much simpler. Just note that this uses the same mortar as grout.
- Faux brick veneer. Faux brick veneer is often made of high-density polyurethane attached to your home’s exterior using mortar. The same mortar is used as grout in between each strip. However, it’s not as durable as real brick and is prone to UV damage.
- Faux brick panel. Faux brick panels are similar to faux veneers, except that they come in sheets instead of strips. It’s like wallpaper but for your exterior walls. Since it comes in sheets, faux brick panels rarely need grouting, but it’s still less durable than real brick veneers.
Colors
Brick veneer sidings are available in a range of natural colors to create a modern or classic appearance. Here are some of the popular brick colors you can also consider for your home:
- Warm browns
- Red hues
- Buff and beige
- White and cream
- Light colors
- Gray and charcoal
- Earth tones
Pros
- Excellent curb appeal with a timeless look of brick
- Low maintenance and easy-to-clean
- Good thermal protection and moisture resistance
- More affordable than solid brick walls
- Available in a wide range of brick finishes
Cons
- Tends to be heavier than other siding materials
- Susceptible to cracking
- Little protection against pests, rot, and fire
Cost of brick veneer siding
National average cost of brick veneer siding: $22,500 to $70,000
Face brick veneer: $4 to $8 per sq. ft.
Thin brick veneer: $3 to $10 per sq. ft.
Faux brick veneer: $4 to $10 per sq. ft.
Faux brick panel: $6 to $11 per sq. ft.
6. Stone veneer siding
Stone veneer siding resembles the appearance of natural stone, giving your home a luxurious feel. It’s made of thinly cut real stone pieces attached to your wall, giving a natural look without the weight of a full-bed rock.
Moreover, stone veneer siding is often installed on statement walls, façades, or the entire exterior of a house. While it’s not as durable as real stone, stone veneer siding offers a good balance of aesthetics and weather protection.
High-quality stone veneer siding can last for up to 75 years with proper maintenance. Still, its longevity depends on the materials, installation, and the local climate.
Stone veneer siding types
There are three main types of stone veneer siding you can choose from, which are as follows:
- Manufactured stone veneer. Also known as ‘faux stone’, this is made from a mix of minerals, cement, and polymer to imitate the appearance of natural stone. It’s available in various thicknesses with excellent durability and a much lighter weight than natural stone.
- Natural thin stone veneer. This is made of real stone that’s typically less than 2 inches thick. It’s made by slicing natural stone from riverbeds, mountain rocks, and quarries. Natural thin stone veneer has superb curb appeal and durability, perfect for both interior and exterior walls.
- Full bed veneer. This is similar to natural thin stone veneer, but it’s much thicker at about 3 to 5 inches. Since it’s thicker, you’ll get better protection for your home, but it will be substantially heavier.
Colors
Stone veneer siding sports the beauty of natural colors, perfect if your home has contemporary, Mediterranean, Tuscan, Craftsman, or rustic style. Here are some of the colors many homeowners prefer:
- Gray and ash colors for a neutral palette
- Earthy shades like rust, copper, or chocolate brown
- Red and burgundy that resembles granite or sandstone
- Bluish-gray, like the cool tone of slate
- Multi-colored for a more natural appearance
Pros
- More affordable than real stone
- Lightweight but still weather-resistant
- Minimal maintenance with a long lifespan
- Fire and pest-resistant
- Doesn’t need painting or finishing to look good
Cons
- Its color may fade over time
- More affordable stone veneers may not have much color depth
- Potential moisture issues if not installed properly
- It can chip, crack, or crumble if struck by heavy objects.
Cost of stone veneer siding
Natural average cost of stone veneer siding: $13,000 to $22,000
Manufactured stone veneer siding: $5 to $8 per sq. ft.
Natural thin stone veneer siding: $15 to $30 per sq. ft.
Full bed veneer siding: $25 to $45 per sq. ft.
7. Composite siding
Composite siding is a manufactured board made from a combination of sawdust, wood fibers, and wood scraps. To make it more weather-resistant, some manufacturers will mix it with plastic, fiberglass, or resin. This makes certain types of composite siding resistant to pests, water damage, and rot.
Overall, composite siding is ideal if you live in an area with extreme climates, such as Minnesota. It has the characteristics of real wood but is more durable against natural elements.
With proper upkeep, composite siding can last for 30 years, or even longer. Its color will eventually fade, but you can always re-paint it to restore its curb appeal and enhance its weather protection.
Composite siding types
Composite siding is basically a combination of two or more materials to create a durable product. Below are the three main options nowadays:
- Engineered wood siding. Engineered wood siding is a blend of wood fibers, resins, and binders. It looks like natural wood, but stronger against insects, moisture, and warping. This might be the ideal choice if you want to get the appearance of traditional wood but at a lower cost.
- Wood-Plastic Composite (WPC) siding. WPC siding is made of wood fibers and recycled plastic, making the material resistant to pests and decay. It could be the best choice for your home if you prefer long-term durability and low maintenance over top-shelf aesthetics.
- PVC Composite siding. PVC composite siding is a combination of polyvinyl chloride and other materials to make it stronger. The result is a lightweight yet durable siding that can also mimic natural wood grain. This is a good choice if you prefer easy-to-clean and affordable siding for your home.
Colors
If you’re thinking of getting composite siding for your home, you have a wide range of color options. Here are the usual choices you’ll see in modern houses:
- Light to dark wood-like shades
- Soft pastels and muted blues/greens
- Wood grain finishes, such as mahogany or oak
- Two-tone colors
- Accent pieces with complementary shades
Pros
- Low maintenance and easy to paint
- Wide range of design options
- Durable and easy to install
- Good insulating properties
Cons
- More expensive than vinyl, steel, or aluminum siding
- There are visible seams between the panels when viewed from certain angles.
- Colors tend to fade due to prolonged sun exposure
- Some individuals may have concerns about the potential hazards associated with the adhesives and resins used during installation.
Cost of composite siding
National average cost of composite siding: $9,000 to $21,000
Engineered wood siding: $6 to $12 per sq. ft.
Wood-Plastic Composite (WPC) siding: $7 to $14 per sq. ft.
PVC Composite siding: $5 to $11 per sq. ft.
8. Stucco siding
Stucco siding is a type of masonry made by blending Portland cement, lime, sand, and water. It’s easy to mold and shape, which is the reason why it’s used both as a siding and a decorative finish for interior walls.
Moreover, stucco can be applied either as a one-coat or three-coat siding, with the latter offering better weather resistance. There’s also a newer stucco application called Exterior Insulation and Finish Systems (EIFS), which consists of 6 layers.
If applied properly, stucco siding can last for up to 100 years. It can withstand fire, insect pests, mold, rot, and harsh weather conditions.
Stucco siding types
- Traditional stucco. Traditional stucco is the type blended with Portland cement, which is somewhat moisture-resistant. However, it can crack at some point, especially if you live in a place with frigid winters, such as Southern Minnesota.
- Synthetic stucco. Synthetic stucco uses a combination of acrylic, polymers, and resins to make a moisture-resistant siding material that lasts longer. It’s also more durable during rainy days.
- Lime stucco. Lime stucco is just like traditional stucco, minus the cement. It’s not very popular for modern houses due to its low durability, and it’s mostly used for historical homes.
Colors
When it comes to stucco colors, you have two options: mix the pigmentation during application or paint it after the stucco has fully dried.
When mixing pigments during application, installers will add a liquid colorant to the stucco mixture. This creates an integrated finish, ideal for new installations where you want the color to last long.
Painting stucco is often done as a color refresh once the color-integrated finish starts to fade. You can do this every 5 to 10 years, depending on how fast your siding loses its color.
In terms of color selection, you can choose any shade you desire. Still, most homeowners prefer neutral, earthy, and pastel tones.
Pros
- Excellent curb appeal with various color and finish options
- Good soundproofing and insulation
- Long lifespan with proper maintenance
- Top-notch durability if you’re looking for long-lasting siding
- Fire-resistant with minimal upkeep needed
Cons
- Traditional stucco is prone to cracking and moisture absorption
- Complex siding that requires professional installation
- Not always ideal for climates with frequent freeze-thaw cycles
Cost of stucco siding
National average cost of stucco siding: $2,200 to $9,112
Traditional stucco: $6 to $9 per sq. ft.
Synthetic stucco: $8 to $12 per sq. ft.
Lime stucco: $6 to $9 per sq. ft.
How to Choose Between Types of Siding
Still can’t decide which siding material matches your home? Below, we discussed several factors you can consider to narrow down your options:
Cost
Ask yourself, how much budget do you plan to spend for your siding project? For many of our clients, cost is often a deciding factor when choosing materials, be it for siding, roofing, or other exterior home improvements.
If you’re re-siding your home on a budget, the most affordable options are vinyl and composite materials. However, if you’re willing to splurge, you’ll get the best value on stucco, stone veneer, and brick veneer options. You can also consider wood siding if you want to combination of luxury and curb appeal.
To help you budget, you can contact us at Boelter Is Better for a free siding estimate. This way, you can decide which material gives the best bang for your buck.
Durability
As much as many clients want to save money on their siding project, we always remind them that longevity is still the best money-saver. Siding materials like fiber cement, brick, and stone veneers are among the most durable options, providing your home with decades of protection.
Wood siding is also durable, but its upkeep will add up to expensive long-term costs.
Overall, you’d want a siding that can withstand pests, moisture, impact, and fire for long periods.
Weather and Climate
Before considering aesthetics, you must first assess the climate in your locality. For example, if you live in Southern Minnesota, where winters are harsh and summers are humid, vinyl and composite siding would be the wise choices. These siding materials can withstand natural elements and repetitive freeze-thaw cycles.
However, if you live in a place with a hot climate, your best bet is fiber cement and stucco siding. These materials are resistant to heat and fading, plus they can also withstand fires.
Color
Curb appeal is one of the primary reasons you might be re-siding your home, so color is a crucial consideration. In terms of the color section, you’ll enjoy a wide selection of vinyl and composite siding. These materials can also mimic wood and stone finishes, making it a versatile choice, especially for homeowners on a budget.
If color retention is your goal, stucco and brick could be the ideal choice for your home. Wood siding also offers natural finishes, but requires a lot of upkeep to maintain its appeal.
Maintenance
Take note that your job doesn’t end after getting a new siding – you’re just getting started with maintenance! It’s essential to consider the long-term maintenance of your preferred siding material, as it entails additional expenses.
If you want low-maintenance siding, consider vinyl, stone veneer, brick veneer, or fiber cement. Remember that of all siding materials in the market, wood is the most high-maintenance since it’s susceptible to decay.
Aesthetics
You’d surely want your new siding to match the architectural style of your home. With that said, here are some of our suggestions you can consider:
- Modern/contemporary: Fiber cement, engineered wood siding
- Craftsman: Wood, engineered wood siding
- Colonial: Brick veneer, engineered wood, and wood siding
- Mediterranean/Tuscan: Stucco, stone veneer siding
If you can’t decide which siding style suits your home’s appearance, you can always reach out to us at Boelter Is Better. Our project advisors can help you select the siding that gives the most curb appeal to your home.
Need more help choosing the right siding for your home?
If you’re still undecided at this point – don’t fret! At Boelter Is Better, we help our fellow locals in Mankato and Southern Minnesota select the best siding material that reflects their taste and style.
For over 30 years, we’ve been the trusted provider of high-quality exteriors in Southern Minnesota. We take pride in our workmanship, and we always aim to deliver exteriors that are made to last.
Let’s help you choose the siding that will make you proud of your home! Contact us at Boelter Is Better for a consultation and free estimate – totally obligation-free, simply because we want you to see the best siding options available on the market.
FAQs about siding material types
How do I determine what kind of siding I have?
To check what kind of siding your home currently has, you can try the following steps:
- Knock on the siding wall. If it sounds hollow, it’s likely synthetic stucco. If it dings, it’s likely to be aluminum or another metal.
- Check for wood grains. Old wooden siding has splintering and visible grain.
- Look for the manufacturer’s details. You can check the backside of the board in an unfinished area of your wall. Most synthetic wood sidings have an AHA code or manufacturer’s details printed on them.
- Try pushing on one portion of the exterior wall. Vinyl siding tends to flex when pushed, plus you can also check one of the board’s backsides for manufacturer details.
If you still can’t determine what siding type you have, you can reach out to us, and our licensed technician can inspect it for you.
Can you paint siding?
Yes, you can paint siding materials, such as wood, vinyl, fiber cement, stucco, engineered wood, and veneers. Ensure that you prepare each surface properly and use the appropriate type of paint for each material.
What kind of paint is best for siding?
The right choice of paint depends on the siding material. Here’s a quick rundown of the popular siding materials and what paint you should be using:
- Acrylic latex paint – Wood, engineered wood, fiber cement, stucco, vinyl
- Elastomeric paint – Masonry and stucco
- Masonry paint – Brick and stone veneers
What siding is the most durable?
The most durable siding materials are brick veneer, stone veneer, and fiber cement. These materials can last for 50 to 100 years with proper maintenance. Still, the material’s quality and manner of installation will impact its longevity.
Which is better, steel or aluminum siding?
Both aluminum and steel sidings are durable options for your home. However, if you prefer a corrosion-resistant, low-maintenance, and affordable option, aluminum is the ideal choice. It’s because steel requires occasional repainting to reduce its risk of rusting and decay.
What siding is termite-resistant?
If you’re looking for termite-resistant siding, consider vinyl, fiber cement, or aluminum. If you’re planning to get engineered wood siding, make sure it’s treated to repel insect pests.
Can I install new siding over the old siding?
Yes, in many cases, but it still depends on the condition of your old siding. If your existing siding is still in good condition with no rotting, warping, or damage, you can install new siding on top of it to save on labor costs and avoid a huge mess.
However, you should be aware that installing new siding on top of an old one will make your exterior heavier. If your old siding is made of heavy materials, such as stucco or stone veneers, consider removing it first.
Also, some manufacturers may require siding to be installed over bare sheathing; otherwise, your warranty will be forfeited.
Is stucco siding suitable for all climates?
No, stucco siding is not ideal for all climates. It’s best suited for dry and arid climates with low humidity and minimal rainfall. That’s because excess moisture can seep through the stucco material, which can lead to premature cracking and structural damage to your home’s exterior.
