Common Types of Residential Siding

Replacing the siding on your home can improve its appearance, security, and energy-efficiency. There are several different types of siding on the market, and understanding the unique properties of each option can help you choose the right one for your home. Some of the most common types of siding replacement materials include vinyl, fiber cement, and engineered wood.

Vinyl

There are countless colors, textures, and patterns of vinyl siding available. This popular material is generally affordable and easy to install. You can find siding that looks like wood or stone in numerous shades, from neutral grays and browns to bright colors. Vinyl is fairly easy to maintain and doesn’t usually require painting or staining. Many brands come with a lifetime warranty. If you live in a climate with severe weather, you may want to consider investing in insulated vinyl, which can help reduce energy consumption and lower your utility bills.

Fiber Cement

Another popular siding replacement material is fiber cement, which is usually made up of cement combined with sand and wood fibers. This strong material is extremely durable and resistant to damage from the sun and severe weather. You may be able to find untreated siding that you can paint in your desired shade. There are also some types of fiber cement that come in specific fade-resistant colors. Fiber cement doesn’t require a lot of maintenance, and most professional contractors can install it fairly quickly.

Engineered Wood

This type of siding offers the appearance of traditional wood panels or shingles without the risk of rotting or warping. Most engineered wood consists of wood fragments, such as shavings and sawdust, combined with a bonding agent and molded to look and feel like lumber. This material is generally more durable and weather-resistant than standard wood siding. You may have to paint engineered wood siding during the initial installation and every several years after that.

The right siding replacement material can give your home a fresh look and reduce maintenance requirements. Most modern siding options are extremely durable and available in a variety of textures and colors.