What Are the Most Common Home Siding Materials?

Did you know that vinyl and stucco are the two most popular siding materials in new homes currently?

Does this mean they are the best? No, but it does mean they are two of the most popular.

If you’re trying to decide between different types of siding for your home, it’s essential to look into the top most common siding materials, so you can figure out what is the best siding for your specific needs and home. 

Keep reading for a low down on the most popular types of home siding so you can make an informed decision. 

Wood Siding

Wood is one of the oldest and most attractive types of siding. Real wood home siding has an authentic feel and will make your home look timeless. 

There are a lot of different types of wood siding, including:

  • Clapboard
  • Planks
  • Boards and panels
  • Shingles

These different types of siding can vary widely in cost. Shingles tend to be the most expensive and plywood siding is the cheapest. Overall, wood home siding comes at moderate to expensive when it comes to cost. 

Although wood siding looks amazing it has one significant drawback. Wood siding is high maintenance. If you want to preserve wood siding, you should repaint or refinish it every 3-7 years.

Wood siding is also susceptible to water damage, sun damage, pest damage, and wood rot. 

However, if you carry out timely siding repair and maintenance, your wood siding can last for decades, especially if it is hardwood.

Vinyl Siding

As we said, above vinyl siding is one of the most popular residential siding options in the US. One of the reasons for this is that vinyl siding can be both affordable and cost-effective, and mimic the look of real wood quite convincingly. 

Vinyl siding typically costs less than the many other types of premium siding materials. It is also virtually maintenance-free and can last for a few decades. 

One drawback to vinyl siding is that it’s not a natural material. When it ends up on the landfill it cannot break down. Vinyl siding is also susceptible to fading. 

Depending on the vinyl product you choose, your siding can start to fade after 5 years. 

Metal Siding

Metal siding was one of the first types of siding that came on the market in response to some of the drawbacks of traditional wood siding. Metal siding has evolved to be a popular and low-maintenance siding choice. Like vinyl siding, metal siding often resembles the look of real wood.

Besides, the faux wood look, you can also install corrugated metal siding if you’re after a more modern aesthetic. 

Metal siding typically comes prefinished and is a durable, low-maintenance option. Metal siding usually commands a moderate price point. Depending on the product you choose, metal siding prices are usually on par with that of vinyl siding. 

One of the primary drawbacks to metal siding is that it’s prone to dents, and can be noisy. 

Now You Know About the Most Popular Siding Materials

Now that you know about some of the most common siding materials, which will you choose for your home? Wood offers a traditional, timeless aesthetic, and can make your home feel more bespoke and upmarket. However, vinyl and metal siding are cheaper and more durable. 

Are you on the lookout for informative reads as a homeowner? If yes, browse our blog for more helpful content.