9 Types of Siding You Should Consider and The 1 To Avoid At All Costs

Choosing the right siding for your home can feel overwhelming with so many options on the market. Whether you’re a first-time homeowner or a seasoned pro, it’s important to know the pros and cons of each siding type to make an informed decision. This guide breaks down the most popular options to help you find the perfect balance between durability, aesthetics, and budget—plus, we’ll highlight one siding you’ll want to avoid.

Timothy Beckham

A licensed home remodeling expert with 25 years of experience, Timothy has helped countless homeowners tackle repairs, manage renovations, and make informed decisions about maintaining their homes.

Last Updated 3/31/2025 | Siding

Fiber Cement Siding (Hardie Plank)

It is made from a mixture of cement, sand, and cellulose fibers that are compressed together.

Our team installs fiber cement siding more often than anything else—and for good reason. I believe in it because I’ve seen firsthand how well it performs compared to other materials. It’s strong and durable. Unlike other types of siding that tend to rot, attract and harbor pests, or hide major water damage until it’s too late, fiber cement holds up in just about any condition.

What are the pros of cement fiber siding?

Many Styles: While lap siding is the most popular choice for Hardie, there are plenty of other options to fit your home’s style. Hardie panels come in four textures—wood-textured, smooth, stucco, and T1-11—giving you flexibility beyond traditional horizontal siding. If you love the look of shake, they also offer straight-edge and staggered-edge shake for that classic, handcrafted appearance.
Hardie is Really Hard: Made of cement and cellulose fibers which make it really hard and resistant to impact damage.
Weather Durability: It can withstand all types of environments weather it be hot and humid like we have in the Southeast, or cold and wet like Upstate New York.
Low Maintenance: Requires less frequent repainting compared to wood siding because less moisture will penetrate Hardie siding than with wood.
Increased Home Value: People know the good stuff when they see it. Home buyers are always avoiding homes that look like they’ll need repairs soon. Hardie is well known for how long it lasts and homeowners pay top dollar for peace of mind.
Easy to Source: We get the majority of our Hardie siding products through Five Star Lumber, here in Pelham, AL. They are super easy to work with and have great prices.

What are the cons of cement fiber siding?

Cost: Hardie and vinyl siding cost about the same to install. However, the key difference is that Hardie siding requires painting after installation, while vinyl siding does not. This initial painting is where the added cost comes in.
Periodic Painting Required: Though it holds paint better than other types of siding, it will need repainting every 20-25 years as a part of ongoing maintenance.

Cedar Siding

Both cedar lap siding and cedar shake siding have been a go-to for homeowners who want a timeless, natural look. It brings character to any home, whether you’re aiming for a rustic cabin feel or classic coastal charm. I’ve worked on plenty of houses in Hoover, AL, with cedar shake, and there’s nothing quite like the rich texture and deep color of real cedar on a home. If you’re considering cedar shake siding, here’s what you need to know about its strengths and challenges.

What are the pros of cedar siding?

Natural Beauty: Offers a rich, textured look that ages beautifully over time. Think cabin retreat vibes.
Curb Appeal: High-end appearance that appeals to home buyers looking for more charm and less cookie-cutter.
Rot-Resistant: Cedar is naturally resistant to decay compared to other wood types. That’s because the resins in the wood act as a natural deterrent to microbial life.
Easily Repairable: Individual shakes can be replaced without significant effort. There are usually a few leftover bundles of shake which don’t take up much space making it easy to save for any needed repairs down the road.
Bonus Reason: This was the type of siding I had on my first home. It was beautiful and mine never needed any maintenance.

What are the cons of cedar siding?

Cost: Cedar shakes are beautiful, but they’re pricey compared to other options. Quality cedar isn’t cheap, and neither is the labor to install it properly.
Labor-Intensive Installation: Laying individual shakes takes time and skill. It’s not something you can knock out over a weekend with your buddy. It takes a real team of siding installation experts to get it done right.

Traditional Plywood Siding

Plywood siding has been a staple in home construction for decades because it’s affordable, easy to install, and structurally strong. I’ve seen it used on everything from small backyard sheds to full-sized homes, and when properly maintained, it holds up surprisingly well.

There are plenty of sizes to choose from, including 12-inch OC Channel, 8-inch OC Channel, and 4-inch OC Channel. If you’re looking for a budget-friendly siding option that’s straightforward to work with, plywood siding might be the way to go. But before you commit, here’s what you should know about its pros and cons.

What are the pros of plywood siding?

Affordable: Plywood siding is one of the most cost-effective siding options on the market.
Easy to Install: Lightweight and simple to work with, and it’s easy on blades and tools. That means you save on labor and tooling costs.
Easy Repairs: Damaged panels can be replaced easily without removing large sections.
Structural Benefits: Adds extra strength to your home’s exterior walls. Using plywood siding is like having two layers of sheathing on your home. That means when the wind blows your neighbor’s house down, yours will be still standing strong.
Durable (if maintained): Holds up well if properly sealed and protected from moisture. Nothing beats a fresh coat of paint.

What are the cons of plywood siding?

Moisture Sensitivity: If not properly sealed and maintained, plywood siding can absorb moisture and start to delaminate or rot. Trust me, once water gets in, it’s game over for the panel.
Frequent Maintenance: It needs regular painting or sealing to keep it protected. If you’re not a fan of annual checkups on your siding, this might not be your best bet.
Not Pest-Proof: Termites and carpenter ants love a good piece of untreated wood. I’ve seen far too many honeybee hives living inside my clients’ walls.
Surface Imperfections: Plywood can show defects like knots or voids in the surface. It’s not a big deal if you’re going for a rustic look, but it’s worth noting.

105 Wood Siding AKA Dutch Lap Siding

If you’ve ever driven through an older neighborhood and admired the classic, overlapping wood siding, chances are you were looking at pattern 105 siding—though you might know it by another name. It’s also called Dutch lap, German lap, drop siding, or cove lap, depending on where you are and who you’re talking to. No matter the name, this siding goes way back because it has been a staple in American home construction for well over a century.

I’ve worked on plenty of homes with it, and when properly maintained, it can last for generations. If you love that traditional, craftsman-style look, pattern 105 siding is worth considering. Let’s go over the pros and cons before you decide if it’s the right fit for your home.

What are the pros of 105 lap siding?

Classic Look: Gives homes that timeless, craftsman-style appearance. If you live in Birmingham, AL, think of the homes in Forest Park.
Durable with Proper Care: Properly painted and maintained, it can last for decades. Houses from the 1920’s have 105 lap siding or Dutch lap as they called it and it’s still going strong to this day.
High Resale Value: Traditional lap siding can make a home more appealing and valuable to buyers. There’s something about history that makes us all want to preserve it.

What are the cons of 105 lap siding?

Time-Consuming Prep and Paint: If you’ve ever prepped and painted a house with 105 lap siding, you know how tedious it can be. It’s a lot of surface area, and scraping those layers of old paint? That’s the best workout of your life.
Susceptible to Moisture Damage: Like all wood siding, if it’s not kept painted and sealed, water can work its way in and cause rot. The bottom rows always seem to rot first, so keep a close eye on that during your yearly inspections. Check out this quick guide if you want to know more about How to Prevent Wood Siding From Rotting at the Bottom
Not Readily Available: Finding true 105 lap siding can be tricky these days, especially for older homes where you’re trying to match the original material. Roy Lumber here in Birmingham is the best place in town to find all kinds of older types of siding.
Cost of Repairs: While it’s durable, repairs on older lap siding can add up if sections need to be replaced or custom-milled to match. I’ve helped a lot of clients find their match over the years, and a custom milling setup is a really quick way for a project to start costing an arm and a leg.

Smart Siding (OSB Plywood Siding)

Smart Siding, also known as LP® SmartSide®, is a type of engineered wood siding made from oriented strand board (OSB) that has been treated with a proprietary blend of resins, waxes, and zinc borate for added durability. It’s designed to mimic the look of traditional wood siding but with improved resistance to moisture, pests, and impact damage.

According to their Wiki page, LP has been manufacturing SmartSide since 1997 and claims to have had no warranty claims for fungal decay on this product. However, this wasn’t always the case. Their previous product line, Inner-Seal siding, faced significant issues in the 1990s, leading to a major class-action lawsuit. Many homeowners reported premature rotting, discoloration, and fungal growth, which resulted in LP paying nearly $1 billion in settlements. Since then, LP has re-engineered its siding, and SmartSide has been on the market for over 25 years with no reported warranty claims for fungal decay.

What are the pros of Smart siding?

Stronger Than Traditional Plywood: Smart Siding is made from OSB strands compressed with resins, making it more durable and resistant to splitting or cracking.
More Impact-Resistant Than Fiber Cement: Unlike Hardie, which can chip or crack if hit hard enough, Smart Siding has some flex to it and can take a beating from hail or debris.
Pre-Primed and Ready to Paint: Comes with a factory-applied primer, so all you have to do is paint it in your color of choice. No extra prep work required.
Fewer Seams on the Wall: SmartSide comes in 16-foot lengths, reducing the number of seams compared to traditional wood or fiber cement siding.

What are the cons of Smart siding?

Still OSB at Its Core: No matter how much wax, resin, or zinc borate they mix in, at the end of the day, Smart Siding is still oriented strand board (OSB). If water gets past the protective layers, it will swell and deteriorate.
Edge Sealing is Crucial: Every cut edge needs to be sealed with caulk, paint and primer. If not, water wicks in and compromises the board. This is something a lot of installers overlook, leaving homeowners with a product that fails far sooner than promised.
Can Be Hard to Find in Certain Areas: Unlike Hardie or vinyl, not every lumberyard stocks Smart Siding, and availability can vary depending on where you live.

Vinyl Siding

Vinyl siding is the cheapest option on the market, which is why so many homeowners go for it. But after 25 years of repairing siding, I’ve seen the hidden dangers vinyl can create.

Time after time, I remove vinyl siding from a house only to find major water damage and even structural rot underneath—damage the homeowners had no idea was happening. The problem? Vinyl is basically plastic. Unlike wood or fiber cement, it doesn’t show any signs of water intrusion on the surface. Water gets in, sits there, and slowly destroys everything behind it while the outside still looks fine. If you’re considering vinyl siding, here’s what you need to know before making your decision.

What are the pros of vinyl siding?

Very Cost-Effective: If you’re on a tight budget, vinyl is one of the most affordable siding options available. The main reason for that is because you don’t need to paint it once it’s installed.
Low Maintenance: No need to spend a lot of energy and time maintaining it. Unlike wood, it doesn’t need painting or sealing over the years.
Easy to Source Locally: Readily available at American Wall Zone here in Birmingham, so finding a style you like isn’t an issue.
Variety of Colors & Styles: Comes in a huge range of colors and textures, including options that mimic wood grain.

What are the cons of vinyl siding?

Allows Moisture Below the Surface: Water can get behind vinyl siding and rot the structure of your home without any visible signs until it’s a huge problem. I’ve seen this countless times—what looks fine on the outside can be a disaster underneath.
Fades in Direct Sunlight: The color you choose won’t last forever. Over time, UV exposure causes fading, and depending on the quality of the vinyl, it can happen faster than you’d expect.
Difficult to Paint Properly: Unlike wood or fiber cement, painting vinyl is tricky. The surface isn’t designed to hold paint well, and if you pick the wrong type, it can peel and crack.
Shorter Lifespan: Needs to be replaced every 15-20 years, which is far less than other siding options like fiber cement or brick.
Less Curb Appeal for Buyers: Many homebuyers actively avoid houses with vinyl siding, seeing it as a cheap, low-quality material.
Doesn’t Hold Up in the Wind: In stormy weather or high winds, vinyl siding can rattle, flap, or even tear off completely. In fact, one of the most common repair calls I get is for vinyl siding that’s blown off during a storm. It might look fine most of the time, but when the wind picks up, it’s usually one of the first things to go—especially if there’s already water damage behind it.
It Melts: I have gotten way too many calls over the years from homeowners who grilled too close to the house.

Metal Siding

I’ve seen metal siding installed on a number of new homes recently, especially on barndominiums and modern industrial-style builds. In my opinion, it’s the most durable siding option out there. While metal has been around for a long time, it’s mainly been used on roofs and commercial buildings, Now, it’s becoming more popular for residential construction. It offers excellent weather resistance and a distinct aesthetic, but like any material, it comes with its pros and cons. If you’re considering metal siding for your home, here’s what you need to know.

What are the pros of metal cladding?

Extremely Durable: In my opinion, metal is the most durable siding option out there. It can handle harsh weather, and common impact damage, especially if your have kids. We all know how they like to bounce balls against the house.
Low Maintenance: Once installed, there’s very little upkeep required. No need for painting, sealing, or frequent repairs like other siding materials. You will need to replace the screws after about 20-30 years due to the rubber washer they use.
Variety of Styles and Colors: Comes in corrugated, standing seam, and flat panels, giving homeowners plenty of design choices.
Long Lifespan: When properly installed, metal siding can last 50+ years, outlasting most other siding options.

What are the cons of metal cladding?

Higher Upfront Cost: Metal siding is more expensive than vinyl and many types of wood siding. Like Dad always says, good metal siding isn’t cheap and cheap metal siding isn’t good. For that reason the material costs can add up quickly.
Noisy in Heavy Rain or Wind: Metal siding can be loud during storms, making rain and hail much more noticeable inside the home. Although some won’t feel like this is a true con to metal siding. There is something soothing about the sound of the rain, isn’t there?
Limited Style Versatility in Some Neighborhoods: While great for barndominiums and modern designs, metal cladding may look out of place in traditional neighborhoods or historic districts.

Brick

If you want the best material out there, brick is it. We’ve been using brick since the beginning of time, and for good reason—it’s durable, fireproof, low-maintenance, a great insulator, and lasts for centuries. Even the Three Little Pigs reached a consensus that brick was the only way to go! Whether you’re going for a classic, timeless look or just want a home that can stand up to anything, brick is hard to beat. In my opinion, it’s the best option available—let’s break down why, along with a few things to consider before making your decision.

What are the pros of brick?

Extremely Durable: Brick has been used for centuries because it stands the test of time. Unlike other materials, it won’t rot, warp, or deteriorate easily.
Low Maintenance: No painting, sealing, or frequent repairs needed. Once it’s installed, you can pretty much forget about it.
Boosts Home Value: Buyers love brick homes because they know it’s a long-lasting, high-quality material. It adds instant curb appeal and resale value.
Soundproofing Benefits: Brick absorbs sound better than wood or vinyl, helping to keep outside noise to a minimum.
Timeless Look: Brick never goes out of style. Whether you want a traditional or modern aesthetic, it works with almost any architectural design.
Excellent Insulator: Brick naturally helps regulate indoor temperatures, keeping your home cooler in the summer and warmer in the winter.

What are the cons of brick?

Higher Upfront Cost: Brick is one of the most expensive siding materials when it comes to both materials and labor, but in my opinion, you get what you pay for. You need a proper foundation poured before you can install brick on your home. Without it, the newly installed brick will start sinking almost immediately.
Difficult & Expensive to Modify or Repair: I get calls all the time from homeowners wanting to move a window, expand a door, or fix garage damage after a fender bender. The biggest issue? Brick literally comes from a hole in the ground. The colors depend on where it was mined, and if your home was built decades ago, that exact brick may no longer exist. A close match is possible, but a perfect one? Not likely.
Requires a Strong Foundation: Brick is heavy, and not every house is built to handle it. If you’re switching to brick, you may need foundation reinforcement to support the added weight.
Can Absorb Stains: Unlike vinyl or metal, brick isn’t stain-proof. Things like mildew, dirt, and even hard water from sprinklers can discolor it over time. If you live in an are with red clay, forget about it. Every time it rains, red mud will splash onto the brick and you’ll be left with a beautiful red ring around the bottom of your house.
Takes Longer to Install: If you hate the idea of your contractor camping out in your driveway for weeks, brick might not be for you. It’s not a quick job—bricklaying is labor-intensive and time-consuming compared to other siding materials. If you’re on a tight timeline, expect delays.

Ledge Stone

I love the look of ledge stone. It gives homes a high-end, natural appearance without the heavy, gothic feel of full-stone construction. Compared to stacked stone, ledge stone is much easier to install, making it a great choice for adding texture and depth to a home’s exterior. I’ve noticed it’s especially popular in places like Colorado and Utah, where it’s common to see ledge stone along the first 4 feet of a home’s exterior before transitioning into Hardie lap siding. If you’re considering ledge stone for your home, here’s what you need to know.

What are the pros of stone cladding?

High-End Look: Ledge stone gives homes a natural, upscale appearance without the heavy, gothic feel of full-stone construction.
Lightweight Compared to Full Stone: Whether using natural or manufactured stone veneer like Versetta Stone, ledge stone adds texture and depth without excessive weight on your home’s structure.
Doesn’t Require a Stone Foundation: Unlike traditional masonry, ledge stone veneer can be installed over standard framing, making it a more accessible option for many homeowners.
Pairs Well with Other Materials: Works seamlessly with brick, wood, fiber cement, and stucco, making it a great accent material rather than a full-wall commitment.
Unique, Natural Variation: No two pieces of natural ledge stone are exactly alike, giving every installation a one-of-a-kind look.
Boosts Home Value & Curb Appeal: Homebuyers love stone accents, and ledge stone is one of the best ways to add resale value without committing to full stone siding.

What are the cons of stone cladding?

Color Matching Can Be a Challenge for Repairs: If a section gets damaged, finding an exact color and texture match can be difficult, especially if the original batch is no longer available. For that reason, I always suggest keeping a few bundles in your garage after the install.
Not as Structurally Strong as Full Stone: Unlike full masonry, ledge stone is purely decorative—it won’t add significant structural strength to a home.

Masonite Siding

Masonite siding is another popular form of siding but has been discontinued. If you have masonite siding it’s important that you keep it caulked and painted to prevent deterioration. If it’s already rotting and swelling you should consider replacing your siding. If you’re unsure about the state of your masonite siding, contact an expert for an inspection to understand what your next steps should be.

Homebuyers, beware! If you’re considering purchasing a home with Masonite siding, proceed with caution. Masonite has a well-documented history of moisture problems, leading to rot, swelling, and structural damage. What may seem like a minor issue on the surface can quickly become a costly headache. Always have a professional inspect the siding before making an offer. In most cases, replacing Masonite is the best long-term solution to protect your investment.

If you have Masonite siding or are thinking about buying a home with it, check out my comprehensive guide to learn how to spot the common types of Masonite, the potential issues, and what you can do to protect your home. Masonite Discontinued Their Siding, Now What?

The Best Budget Siding Is Vinyl Siding

If you’re looking for the cheapest siding option, vinyl is the clear budget winner. It’s widely available, easy to install, and doesn’t require much maintenance. That’s why so many homeowners choose it when cost is their main concern. However, after years of repairing siding, I’ve seen firsthand how vinyl can hide serious issues—like moisture damage and structural rot. What seems like an affordable upgrade can turn into a nightmare when it’s time to sell.

Most people who install vinyl siding say they’ll be moving in a few years anyway. My advice? Move sooner rather than later. The last thing you want is for a home inspector to uncover major water damage right before closing. At that point, you’ll either be paying for repairs again, offering the buyer a discount to cover the damage, or worse—watching them walk away in favor of a home that’s been properly maintained.

If budget is your top priority, vinyl will get the job done—just know what you’re signing up for before making the call.

Your Most Common Questions

What type of siding is right for me?

The type of siding that is right for you will depend on several factors, including a budget, climate, style preference, and the condition of your home’s existing siding. Options include vinyl, wood, aluminum, fiber cement, stone veneer, and many more. Choosing the right siding for your home can be a difficult decision and it is recommended that you speak with an experienced contractor to discuss all of your options.

What are the benefits of metal siding as a whole, regardless of a specific type?

Metal sidings are more durable, fire resistant, easy to maintain, and recyclable. In addition, insects don’t attack metal bodies. So, it is safe from insects as well. Most people like metal siding for low maintenance. You also can choose Metal siding for these qualities.

What is the best house siding for a tiny home?

It depends on your choices. If you want an earthy appeal to your home, you can choose materials made from clay and wood. On the other hand, stainless steel, aluminum, and corrugated metal are the best for a modernist touch.

Are there different types of vinyl siding?

Yes, there are different types of vinyl siding. The most common types are wood grain, board, batten, dutch lap, traditional lap, cedar shake, hand split shake, traditional shake, half round, etc. So, you have plenty of options to choose from.

Need Help With Your Siding in Birmingham, AL?

If reading about different siding options has you realizing it’s time for a repair or replacement, we’re here to help. At Home Repair Service, we specialize in siding replacements that stand the test of time. Whether you need a quick repair or a full siding upgrade, we’ll help you find the best option for your home and budget. Check out our siding services to see if we’re the right fit for your project!