What’s the Best Type of Siding For Your House? 2025 Shopping Guide

There are too many types of siding to choose from, and many homeowners feel overwhelmed. Our goal is to empower you to make an informed decision. We’ll weigh factors like cost, longevity, the ability to paint it, and how popular different types of homes are to help you make a decision.

If you need a quote from a local painting company in Cumming, GA, please get in touch. We would be happy to give you a complimentary consultation, discuss your home’s materials, and recommend the right kind of paint.

Modern Types of Siding That May Be New to You

Before we get to more traditional materials, here is a quick primer on modern siding types that you may be unfamiliar with. They all come with pros and cons.

Fiber Cement Siding (from brands like James Hardie and Nichiha) is made from a mix of cement, sand, and cellulose fibers, and this siding mimics wood or stone while offering increased durability. Prices range from $5 to $12 per square foot, making it a mid-range option. It resists fire, pests, and extreme weather but requires occasional repainting.

Engineered Wood Siding comes from (LP SmartSide, KWP Naturetech, and some other leading names. This material provides the look of real wood with improved resistance to moisture and insects. It costs between $3 and $10 per square foot, but it does require occasional maintenance. It lasts decades when properly cared for.

Another new material is Insulated Vinyl Siding (from CertainTeed and Royal Building Products). Unlike traditional vinyl, this siding comes with built-in insulation, reducing energy loss. It costs between $5 and $12 per square foot and can improve a home’s energy efficiency while maintaining the affordability of vinyl.

Lastly, we should mention Composite Siding from such companies as Everlast and TruWood). Made from resins and polymers, composite siding is highly durable and resists fading, warping, and pests. Expect to pay $7 to $13 per square foot. It’s low-maintenance but can be pricier than traditional options.

Traditional Siding Styles

Wood Siding

Wood siding, including pine, cedar, and redwood, offers natural beauty and excellent insulation. Cedar is the most popular choice due to its rich color and weather resistance. Prices range from $5 to $14 per square foot, with high maintenance requirements such as repainting or staining every three to seven years.

Vinyl Siding

Vinyl remains the most popular and affordable siding option. According to Plastics News, about 27% of new homes feature vinyl siding. It costs between $2 to $7 per square foot, requires minimal maintenance, and comes in various colors. However, it can crack in extreme weather conditions.

Metal Siding

Available in aluminum, steel, and copper, metal siding provides a modern, industrial look and is extremely durable. Prices range from $4 to $12 per square foot. It resists mold and rot but is prone to dents and scratches.

Stone Siding

Stone siding, including limestone, granite, and slate, creates a high-end, natural appearance. Costs range from $15 to $30 per square foot, making it one of the most expensive options. It requires minimal maintenance and lasts a lifetime but comes with a high upfront investment.

Other Types of Siding and Exterior Materials

Stucco Siding

Stucco, made from cement, sand, and lime, is commonly found in warmer climates. It costs between $6 to $10 per square foot and provides excellent insulation. However, it requires professional installation and is prone to cracking in wet climates.

Brick Siding

Brick siding offers timeless charm and extreme durability. Expect to pay $8 to $18 per square foot. While expensive, it rarely requires repainting or maintenance beyond occasional cleaning.

Fiberboard and Hardboard Siding

These materials mimic traditional wood siding while providing increased resistance to pests and decay. Costs range from $4 to $10 per square foot. Though more durable than wood, they require periodic repainting.

Shingle and Shake Siding

Cedar shingles or shakes create a rustic, textured look. Pricing falls between $6 and $12 per square foot. Regular maintenance is required, including staining or sealing every few years.

What Siding Styles Increase Home Value?

Several studies confirm that certain siding choices boost home resale value. According to Zillow, fiber cement and stone veneer siding are among the top home improvement projects with a return on investment (ROI) of over 80%. Similarly, the 2024 Cost vs. Value Report highlights that a garage door replacement (which complements siding upgrades) recoups over 100% of its cost.

Homes with modern fiber cement, engineered wood, or stone veneer siding sell for 5% to 10% more than those with outdated or worn siding. Additionally, energy-efficient insulated vinyl siding can reduce energy costs by up to 15%, making homes more attractive to buyers.

Which Siding Styles Are the Easiest to Paint?

Some siding materials require frequent repainting, while others hold paint well for years. Our Atlanta house painters can give you more information, but here’s how different siding types compare:

• Fiber Cement – Holds paint for 10 to 15 years, making it a cost-effective option.
• Wood Siding – Needs repainting every 3 to 7 years, depending on climate conditions.
• Stucco – Requires repainting every 7 to 10 years, with proper sealing.
• Metal Siding – Can be repainted, but often better left in its original factory finish.
• Vinyl Siding – Not traditionally repainted, but specialized vinyl paint can last 5 to 10 years.

We hope this guide has been helpful for you. If you have any questions about our services, we are happy to help. We offer everything from garage floor coatings in Atlanta to house painting in Johns Creek.