Pros and Cons of Popular Home Siding Materials

One of the best things you can do for your home is protect its exterior with a quality siding, as it will drastically improve its appearance and increase property value. Shopping for the best home siding materials can be an overwhelming process. There's so much to choose from! Do you want a material that's affordable, or one that is easy to care for? To help sift through the various types of siding, we've provided a list highlighting the pros and cons of the most popular home siding materials.

Price isn't the only thing to consider when shopping, but it will certainly play a big part. We've listed the following types of siding in order of price, from lowest to highest. However, please keep in mind that the price you pay will vary greatly on style, brand name, size needed, and other factors.

Vinyl

Vinyl siding is one of the most popular types of siding due to its economical price, ease of care, and great color options. Approximate cost - $ 2 - $ 3 per square foot.

Pros of vinyl siding

- Has a long lifespan.

- Never needs to be painted or stained.

- Easy to clean and care for.

- Great variety of colors and styles.

Cons of vinyl siding

- Not as durable as stone or brick.

- Can be susceptible to damage in extreme weather conditions.

Aluminum

Aluminum is a similar choice to vinyl, with the main difference being that it provides more insulation. There are many colors to choose from, as with vinyl, but it will cost slightly more to purchase. Approximate cost - $ 2.50 - $ 5.00 per square foot.

Pros of aluminum siding

- Easy to clean and care for.

- Never needs to be painted or stained.

- Has a heavier insulation than vinyl siding.

- Available in horizontal or vertical panels.

- Great selection of colors and textures.

Cons of aluminum siding

- Can be dinged or dented fairly with force.

- Color can fade over time.　

Fiber-Cement Siding

This type of siding is vary attractive, resembling the look and texture of real wood or stone. It's made out of a combination of cement, sand, cellulosic fibers, and other additives, making it a durable material. Approximate cost - $ 3 - $ 8 per square foot.

Pros of fiber-cement siding

- Strong, durable, and long lasting.

- Great protection from harsh weather conditions.

- Low maintenance. Easy to care for and clean.

- Comes in either pre-painted or ready-to-paint form.

- Available in a wide selection of colors, textures, and styles.

Cons of fiber-cement siding

- Requires repainting ever 10- 15 years.

Stucco

Stucco is made from a mixture of sand, cement, and other fibers. It is extremely durable, and is available in a multitude of colors and textures. Approximate cost: $ 6 - $ 9 per square foot.

Pros of stucco

- A great choice for homes located in extreme weather prone areas.

- Fire, rot, and weather resistant.

- Long lasting.

- Can be patched and repainted if damaged.

- Great for exterior installation of the home.

Cons of stucco

- Synthetic stucco has been reported to have moisture issues. When wet, it can rot and cause major damage. Before buying, ask which type of stucco you are looking at.

- Must be installed by a professional.

More from Jennifer Wagner:

12 Ways to Enhance Curb Appeal

10 Home Remodeling Projects that Pay Off

Save Time and Money with Preventative Home Maintenance

Source: Personal knowledge and experience