It’s no secret that your home is one of your biggest investments. And like any investment, you want to do everything you can to protect it and keep it in great condition.
One way to do this is by installing quality exterior or interior siding products. Siding comes in a variety of materials, colors, and styles so that you can find the perfect fit for your home.
In this article, we will provide information on some of the 10 most popular types of siding products, their benefits, drawbacks, and approximate costs to help find the best siding products for your needs. So let’s get started!
10 Types of Siding Products for Your Interior and Exterior Needs
There are many exterior and interior siding products on the market. Here are a few of the most popular options:
1. Vinyl Siding
Vinyl siding is one of the most popular types of siding. It is made from PVC (polyvinyl chloride), a durable type of plastic. Vinyl is a good choice for interior applications because it is moisture-resistant and won’t warp or shrink. It is also one of the cheapest types of siding to install.
Vinyl is mostly seen in the living room, kitchen, and hallways because it is not as weather-resistant as some other types of siding. It also tends to fade in direct sunlight.
Benefits
- Vinyl siding is one of the most affordable types of siding.
- It is also easy to install and does not require much maintenance.
- It has many color and design options.
Drawbacks
- Vinyl siding may not be as durable as some other types of siding.
- It may also fade in direct contact with sunlight after a few years.
Cost
Vinyl siding typically costs between $3 and $8 per square foot to install, depending on the product’s quality and the installation’s complexity. Also, the location can affect the pricing, and there may be a higher or lower cost depending on the place you live.
2. Insulated Vinyl Siding
Insulated vinyl siding is one of the many siding products with an insulation layer sandwiched between layers of vinyl. This makes the siding more energy-efficient and helps to reduce heating and cooling costs.
You can commonly notice insulated vinyl in homes with an exterior insulation finishing system (EIFS). You can also use it for the interior of a home.
Benefits
- Insulated vinyl siding is more energy-efficient than regular vinyl siding.
- Outside noise reduction is up to 50%.
- It is available in a wide range of colors and styles.
- This type of siding is more expensive than regular vinyl siding, but it can help to reduce energy costs significantly.
Drawbacks
- Insulated vinyl siding is more expensive than regular vinyl siding.
- It can be difficult to find a contractor who is familiar with installing it.
- It may not be suitable for all climates.
Cost
Insulated vinyl siding typically costs between $5 and $10 per square foot to install. Cost can be higher if the installation is more complex.
3. Wood Siding
Wood siding is the oldest type of siding products and is still popular today. It is made from natural wood, which gives it a warm and inviting look. For interior applications, wood is a good choice because it is moisture-resistant and has a natural insulation value.
This siding requires regular maintenance, such as painting or staining, to protect it from the elements. If not properly maintained, wood can rot and decay. Typically, you will notice wood sidings in living rooms, bedrooms, and other areas where it will be exposed to moisture less often.
Benefits
- Wood siding is environmentally friendly.
- It is also one of the most durable types of siding.
- It has a natural insulation value, which can help reduce energy costs.
Drawbacks
- Wood siding requires periodic maintenance, such as painting or staining.
- If not properly maintained, it can rot and decay.
- It is not as moisture-resistant as some of the other types of siding.
Cost
Depending on materials and labor costs, wood siding typically costs between $4 and $12 per square foot to install.
4. Fiber Cement Siding
Fiber cement siding is created by combining cement, sand, and cellulose fibers. It is one of the most durable types of siding and can withstand harsh weather. It also comes in a variety of colors and designs, allowing you to find the perfect match for your home.
Commonly, fiber cement is for exterior applications, but you can also use it for interior needs. It is a fire-resistant material so you can use it in areas near a fireplace or wood stove.
Benefits
- Fiber cement is fire-resistant, so it is good if your home has wooden framing.
- It is also one of the most durable types of sidings and can withstand extreme weather conditions.
- It comes in many colors and designs, so you can find the perfect fit for your home.
Drawbacks
- Installing fiber cement siding might be more difficult and expensive than other siding types.
- It is also a heavier material, requiring additional structural support.
- Not a recyclable material compared to vinyl, wood, and metal siding.
Cost
Fiber cement siding typically costs between $5 and $25 per square foot to install, depending on materials and labor costs. There may be a higher or lower cost if you are from a different location.
5. Metal Siding
Metal siding is made from various materials, including aluminum, steel, and copper. It is one of the most durable sidings and can withstand extreme weather conditions.
Metal siding’s primary purpose is exterior applications, but you can also use it for interior siding. The looks of metal siding can vary depending on the material you use. Aluminum siding is often painted to look like wood, while steel and copper siding has a more modern and industrial look.
Benefits
- The durability of metal siding makes it a good choice for homes in areas that experience severe weather conditions.
- It is also one of the most fire-resistant types of sidings.
- The different types of metal siding can give your home a solid and unique look.
Drawbacks
- Metal siding can dent and scratch easily, so it may not be the best choice if you have pets or small children.
- It is also a more expensive siding type than vinyl, wood, and fiber cement.
- The risk from damages because of rust and corrosion over time.
Cost
Metal siding is a more expensive type of siding compared to vinyl. It can also be difficult to install, which can increase the cost.
You will pay around $6 to $25 per square foot to install metal siding. Other fees might include any repairs before the installation.
7. Stucco Siding
Stucco is a type of plaster mostly for the exterior of homes. It is made from a mixture of lime, sand, and water. It commonly has a textured finish, which can give your home a unique look.
Stucco is a more expensive type of siding compared to vinyl and wood. It also requires regular maintenance, such as painting and sealing, to keep its color and protect it from the elements.
Benefits
- Stucco is a popular choice for homes in tropical climates because it is moisture-resistant and does not warp or shrink.
- You can paint it in any color you choose, so you can find the perfect fit for your home.
Drawbacks
- Installing stucco siding might be more difficult and expensive than other siding types.
- It is also a heavier material, so it may require additional structural support.
- Not a recyclable material compared to vinyl, wood, and metal siding.
Cost
Stucco is a more expensive type of siding product compared to vinyl. It can also be difficult to install, which can increase the cost.
You will pay around $5 to $30 per square foot to install stucco siding.
8. Hardie Board Siding
Hardie board is a type of fiber cement siding made from a blend of wood fibers, sand, and Portland cement. It is one of the most popular types of fiber cement siding because it is durable, moisture-resistant, and comes in various colors and designs.
Benefits
- Hardie board is a more durable type of siding than vinyl or wood.
- It is also moisture-resistant, which makes it a good choice for homes in climates that experience high humidity levels.
- It will give your home a modern and sleek look.
Drawbacks
- Hardie board is not a recyclable material and can be difficult to repair if damaged.
- Usually more expensive than most of the other siding options.
Cost
Hardie board is a more expensive type of siding than typical siding. It can also be difficult to install, which can increase the cost. You will pay around $7 to $25 per square foot to install Hardie board siding.
9. Brick Siding
Brick is a type of masonry made from clay and fired in a kiln. It is often used for exterior applications because it is durable, weather-resistant, and can add value to your home.
Brick is a more expensive type of siding compared to vinyl or wood. It also requires regular maintenance, such as painting and sealing, to keep its color and protect it from the elements.
Benefits
- Brick is a fire-resistant material.
- You can paint it in any color you choose, so you can find the perfect fit for your home.
- It provides better insulation and can help reduce your energy bills.
Drawbacks
- Brick is a heavier material than vinyl or wood, requiring additional structural support.
- Installing brick siding might be more difficult and expensive than other siding types.
- Not a recyclable material compared to vinyl, wood, and metal siding.
Cost
Brick is a more expensive type of siding. It can also be difficult to install, which can increase the cost. You will pay around $8 to $35 per square foot to install the brick siding.
10. LP Smartside Siding
LP Smartside is a type of engineered wood siding made from recycled wood fibers and treated with a water-resistant coating. It is a popular choice for homeowners because it is durable and comes in a variety of colors and designs.
Benefits
- It will give your home a modern and sleek look.
- You can paint it or stain it to match any color you choose.
- With a 50-year warranty siding.
Drawbacks
- LP Smartside is not a recyclable material and can be difficult to repair if damaged.
- Usually more expensive than most of the other siding options.
Cost
LP Smartside is more durable and has a long lifespan. You will pay around $6 to $14 per square foot to install LP Smartside siding.
Conclusion
There are many types of siding products to choose from, and each has its benefits and drawbacks. You should choose the type of siding that is best suited for your home and climate.
If you are not sure which type of siding is right for you, consult a professional. They will help you choose the right type of siding products and advise you on the best way to install it.
If you live in Oklahoma, please be guided by our article about the Top 7 Best Siding Contractors in Oklahoma in choosing the right siding contractor for your need. Reach them out if you want a free consultation and quotes.