Guide to Different Types of Siding for Your Home

Choosing the right siding for your home is essential for both aesthetics and protection. With so many options available, it can be overwhelming to decide which material best suits your needs. Below, we break down the most popular types of siding, their benefits, and what to consider before making a choice.

1. Vinyl Siding

• Pros: Affordable, low maintenance, available in a wide range of colors and styles, resistant to moisture and pests.

• Cons: Can crack in extreme cold, may fade over time due to sun exposure.

• Best For: Homeowners looking for a budget-friendly and versatile option with minimal upkeep.

There are varying degrees of quality in vinyl siding with different colors, styles, thicknesses, and durability. They are relatively easy to install, which is one of the biggest factors in the lower cost.

2. Fiber Cement Siding

• Pros: Durable, fire-resistant, resistant to rot and pests, mimics wood or masonry looks.

• Cons: Heavier and requires professional installation, can be more expensive than vinyl.

• Best For: Those seeking a long-lasting, weather-resistant siding with a classic appearance.

Fiber cement is a higher quality siding due to being a much more durable material, but the process to install takes significantly longer which lends to a higher overall cost than vinyl. However, it will last much longer and weathers time more gracefully.

3. Wood Siding

• Pros: Natural and timeless aesthetic, can be painted or stained in various colors.

• Cons: Requires regular maintenance (painting, sealing), susceptible to pests and moisture damage.

• Best For: Homeowners who prioritize a traditional or rustic look and are willing to invest in maintenance.

The most common use of wood in the modern construction industry is to accentuate other types of siding, such as wooden brackets in the gable of a roof. The other most common use is with cedar shake on the apex leading up to the roof, where siding is mixed and matched between vinyl and wood.

4. Metal Siding (Aluminum & Steel)

• Pros: Durable, fire-resistant, low maintenance, resistant to pests and moisture.

• Cons: Can dent easily, may be more expensive than vinyl.

• Best For: Modern homes or areas prone to harsh weather conditions.

The most common type of metal siding is horizontal lap aluminum siding. The biggest challenge with this type of siding is that it is easily dented or damaged and it quickly fades over time. The most popular version of metal siding right now is horizontal standing seam or corrugated metal, as it's far superior in durability and just as easy to install. You'll see this a lot on more modern home designs, as well as new construction pole barns.

5. Brick & Stone Veneer Siding

• Pros: Extremely durable, resistant to fire and pests, provides a high-end appearance.

• Cons: Expensive, requires professional installation, heavier than other materials.

• Best For: Homeowners looking for a classic, elegant exterior with minimal maintenance.

Typically seen on higher end homes and rarely used as the entire side of the house, rather is used as an accent for certain parts of the home such as accenting the porch or front door. It's increasingly being used inside as well to create the look of a stone wall.

6. Stucco Siding

• Pros: Energy-efficient, long-lasting, resistant to fire and pests, can be customized with different textures.

• Cons: Requires professional installation, can crack in areas with frequent ground movement.

• Best For: Homes in dry, warm climates seeking a smooth or textured finish.

Stucco is not installed in the midwest nearly as much as in warmer climates. Done wrong, stucco can start peeling off in entire sheets leaving the sheathing underneath exposed through the cracks to moisture and weather conditions. It's a historic siding option that can last a long time if left undisturbed, but isn't too durable if it encounters any kind of harsh event.

Design Your Home, Mix and Match

Perhaps the most fun in the entire siding process is the design— mixing and matching different types of siding. Below are a couple examples of what this can look like. You can also go to www.Hover.to and make a 3D model of your home on a smartphone to design. Here are a couple examples of fantastic combinations:

Board & Batten + Wood Panel

Vinyl Siding + Cedar Shake (two tone)

The best siding choice depends on your budget, climate, maintenance preferences, and aesthetic goals. Whether you prioritize durability, affordability, or a specific style, there is a siding material that meets your needs. Investing in quality siding not only enhances your home’s curb appeal but also increases its value and provides long-term protection against the elements.

For homeowners in Kansas City, selecting the right siding is especially important due to the region’s varying weather conditions. Whether you need vinyl siding installation in Kansas City, fiber cement siding for durability, or expert siding replacement services, USA Built Contracting Co. is here to help.

If you’re considering new siding, contact USA Built Contracting Co. today for expert advice and a free consultation. Our team is ready to help you choose and install the perfect siding for your home with the highest quality craftsmanship and customer service!