Choosing the right siding for your home can be tough. There are so many materials to pick from, and each has its own pros and cons. In this siding comparison pros and cons guide, we’ll look at the most popular siding types—vinyl, wood, engineered wood, and fiber cement. We’ll break down the cost, durability, and ease of installation for each one, so you can find what works best for your home.

In this guide, we’ll compare the most common siding types: vinyl siding, wood lap siding, LP SmartSide, and fiber cement siding. We’ll look at the pros and cons of each so you can pick the best one for your home.

Let’s get started.

Why Siding Matters

Siding is the outside cover on your home. It keeps out rain, snow, and wind. It also helps with insulation and can lower your energy bill. Good siding makes your home look better and last longer.

When choosing siding, think about:

1. Cost – How much will it cost to buy and install?
2. Durability – How long will it last?
3. Ease of Installation – Is it easy to install or fix later?

1. Vinyl Siding

Vinyl siding is one of the most popular siding choices in the U.S.

Pros of Vinyl Siding:

• Low cost: It’s one of the cheapest siding options.
• No painting needed: It comes in many colors that don’t need repainting.
• Easy to clean: You can use a garden hose or pressure washer.

Cons of Vinyl Siding:

• Not very strong: It cracks easily, especially in cold weather or if hit.
• Fades over time: Sunlight can fade the color.
• Not great in storms: Wind can pull off panels.
• Can grow mildew: Needs regular cleaning.

Verdict:

Vinyl is okay if you want cheap siding fast. But it doesn’t last as long and can look worn out after a few years.

2. Wood Lap Siding

Wood siding has been used for many years and gives a home a classic look.

Pros of Wood Siding:

• Beautiful look: Natural wood looks warm and timeless.
• Custom colors: You can paint or stain it any color.
• Easy to work with: Can be cut and shaped with common tools.

Cons of Wood Siding:

• Expensive: Real wood, especially cedar, costs more.
• Can rot or split: If not sealed well, it absorbs water.
• Insect damage: Bugs like termites and beetles can eat it.
• More upkeep: Needs repainting or staining every few years.

Verdict:

Wood siding is great for looks but needs a lot of care. It’s not ideal for rainy or snowy areas.

3. LP SmartSide (Engineered Wood Siding)

LP SmartSide is a popular type of engineered wood siding. It’s made by compressing wood strands and coating them with wax and special resins.

Pros of LP SmartSide:

• Very strong: Doesn’t break or split like regular wood.
• Moisture resistant: Repels water and keeps its shape.
• Pre-finished options: Comes already painted (called ExpertFinish).
• Easy to install: Lightweight and available in long 16-foot boards.
• Less waste: Can be used on either side, so less material is thrown away.
• Resists bugs and mold: Treated with SmartGuard® for added protection.
• Cuts like wood: You can use normal woodworking tools.

Cons of LP SmartSide:

• More expensive than vinyl: But cheaper than some high-end wood or fiber cement.

Verdict:

LP SmartSide is one of the best siding options overall. It looks great, is easy to install, and holds up in tough weather. It’s our top recommendation.

4. Fiber Cement Siding

Fiber cement siding is often mistaken for concrete siding. It’s made from sand, cement, and cellulose fibers.

Pros of Fiber Cement Siding:

• Fire resistant: It doesn’t burn easily.
• Durable: Can last for many years when installed correctly.
• Looks like wood: Many styles mimic wood grain.

Cons of Fiber Cement Siding:

• Heavy: Difficult to lift and install.
• Brittle: Breaks or cracks if mishandled.
• Absorbs water: Can soak up moisture and damage wall framing.
• Shorter boards: Comes in 12-foot lengths, so more seams.
• Hard to cut: Requires special tools and safety gear.

Verdict:

Fiber cement is strong but not easy to work with. It’s a good choice if installed by pros but can cause problems if done wrong.

Comparison Table

Here’s a simple chart to compare the siding types:

Real-Life Tips from Builders

Professional builders like the Perkins Builder Brothers prefer LP SmartSide. They’ve used all types of siding and say LP SmartSide is:

• Safer to install
• Longer lasting
• Less likely to crack
• Better for cutting and trimming
• Easier to lift and work with

Even though they now partner with LP, they used the product long before getting any sponsorship because it simply worked better.

Which Siding Is Best for You?

Your best siding depends on your home, your budget, and how much time you want to spend on maintenance.

• On a tight budget? Choose vinyl.
• Want a classic look and don’t mind upkeep? Try wood.
• Want low maintenance and strong performance? Pick LP SmartSide.
• Live in a fire-prone area? Go for fiber cement.

If you’re in Milwaukee, Wisconsin, where winters are cold and wet, LP SmartSide holds up great in freezing weather and moisture. It’s also a smart pick if you want to avoid constant repairs.

Final Thoughts

Siding is a big investment. The right choice can save you money, time, and future repairs. Always check the warranty, installation instructions, and maintenance needs before buying.

If you want siding that’s durable, looks good, and is easy to install, LP SmartSide is hard to beat.

Ready to Upgrade Your Siding?

Tiltin Windows, Doors & More helps homeowners in Milwaukee, Wisconsin with siding, windows, doors, and more. We’re local, experienced, and here to help.

Call Tiltin Windows, Doors & More today for a free quote or to learn more about the best siding for your home.

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