Home Siding Brands: A Comprehensive Guide

Choosing the right siding for your home is a significant decision. It impacts curb appeal, protection from the elements, energy efficiency, and overall home value. With so many brands vying for your attention, navigating the options can be overwhelming. This comprehensive guide delves into the leading home siding brands, exploring their product offerings, materials, advantages, disadvantages, and average costs, empowering you to make an informed choice for your home.

Understanding Different Siding Materials

Before diving into specific brands, it’s crucial to understand the primary siding materials available. Each material boasts unique characteristics, impacting its durability, maintenance requirements, aesthetic appeal, and cost.

Vinyl Siding

Vinyl siding is the most popular choice for homeowners due to its affordability, versatility, and low maintenance. It’s manufactured from polyvinyl chloride (PVC) and comes in a vast array of colors, textures, and styles, including horizontal lap, vertical panels, shakes, and scallops. Vinyl siding is resistant to rot, insects, and moisture damage, making it a durable option for various climates.

Advantages of Vinyl Siding:

• Affordable price point
• Wide variety of colors and styles
• Low maintenance requirements (no painting or staining)
• Resistant to rot, insects, and moisture
• Relatively easy to install

Disadvantages of Vinyl Siding:

• Can fade or crack over time, especially in extreme climates
• May not be as durable as some other siding materials
• Can be susceptible to dents and scratches
• Lower insulation value compared to other options

Fiber Cement Siding

Fiber cement siding is a durable and versatile material made from cement, sand, and cellulose fibers. It offers the look of natural wood without the associated maintenance. Fiber cement siding is resistant to fire, insects, and rot, making it a long-lasting option for homes in various climates. It can be painted to achieve a custom color and is available in various styles, including horizontal lap, vertical panels, shakes, and shingles.

Advantages of Fiber Cement Siding:

• Durable and long-lasting
• Resistant to fire, insects, and rot
• Offers the look of natural wood
• Can be painted to achieve a custom color
• Relatively low maintenance

Disadvantages of Fiber Cement Siding:

• Higher initial cost compared to vinyl siding
• Requires professional installation
• Can be heavy and difficult to work with
• May require periodic repainting

Wood Siding

Wood siding offers a classic and timeless aesthetic appeal. It can be crafted from various wood species, including cedar, redwood, pine, and spruce. Wood siding is naturally beautiful and can be stained or painted to achieve a desired look. However, it requires regular maintenance to prevent rot, insect infestation, and moisture damage.

Advantages of Wood Siding:

• Natural beauty and classic appeal
• Can be stained or painted to achieve a custom look
• Offers good insulation value
• Sustainable material option

Disadvantages of Wood Siding:

• High maintenance requirements (regular painting or staining)
• Susceptible to rot, insects, and moisture damage
• Higher cost compared to vinyl siding
• Can be flammable

Aluminum Siding

Aluminum siding is a durable and lightweight material that is resistant to rust and corrosion. It’s a low-maintenance option that doesn’t require painting or staining. Aluminum siding is also fire-resistant and recyclable, making it an environmentally friendly choice. However, it can be susceptible to dents and scratches and may not offer the same aesthetic appeal as other siding materials.

Advantages of Aluminum Siding:

• Durable and long-lasting
• Resistant to rust and corrosion
• Low maintenance requirements
• Fire-resistant and recyclable
• Lightweight and easy to install

Disadvantages of Aluminum Siding:

• Can be susceptible to dents and scratches
• May not offer the same aesthetic appeal as other materials
• Can be noisy during rain or hail storms
• Limited color and style options

Engineered Wood Siding

Engineered wood siding, also known as composite wood siding, is manufactured from wood fibers, resins, and waxes. It offers the look of natural wood with improved durability and resistance to rot, insects, and moisture. Engineered wood siding is typically less expensive than natural wood siding and requires less maintenance.

Advantages of Engineered Wood Siding:

• Offers the look of natural wood
• More durable than natural wood
• Resistant to rot, insects, and moisture
• Lower maintenance requirements
• Less expensive than natural wood

Disadvantages of Engineered Wood Siding:

• Can be susceptible to moisture damage if not properly installed
• May not have the same aesthetic appeal as natural wood
• Can be more expensive than vinyl siding

Top Home Siding Brands: A Detailed Overview

Now, let’s explore some of the leading home siding brands, examining their product offerings, strengths, and weaknesses.

James Hardie

James Hardie is the leading manufacturer of fiber cement siding in North America. They offer a wide range of fiber cement siding products in various styles and textures, including HardiePlank lap siding, HardieShingle siding, HardiePanel vertical siding, and HardieTrim boards. James Hardie siding is known for its durability, fire resistance, and aesthetic appeal. Their products also feature ColorPlus Technology, a baked-on finish that provides superior color retention and resistance to fading.

Key Features of James Hardie Siding:

• Fiber cement construction
• Resistant to fire, insects, and rot
• Wide range of styles and textures
• ColorPlus Technology for superior color retention
• 50-year limited transferable warranty

Pros of James Hardie Siding:

• Exceptional durability and longevity
• Excellent fire resistance
• Beautiful and realistic wood-like appearance
• Low maintenance requirements
• Resistant to pests and decay

Cons of James Hardie Siding:

• Higher initial cost compared to vinyl siding
• Requires professional installation
• Can be more difficult to work with than vinyl
• May require periodic repainting, although less frequently than wood

Average Cost of James Hardie Siding: $10 – $14 per square foot installed.

CertainTeed

CertainTeed is a leading manufacturer of building materials, including vinyl siding, fiber cement siding, and polymer siding. They offer a wide range of siding products in various colors, styles, and textures. CertainTeed is known for its innovative products and commitment to sustainability. Their siding products are designed to be durable, low-maintenance, and energy-efficient.

Key Features of CertainTeed Siding:

• Wide range of materials, including vinyl, fiber cement, and polymer
• Extensive selection of colors, styles, and textures
• Innovative product designs
• Commitment to sustainability
• Limited lifetime warranty on vinyl siding

Pros of CertainTeed Siding:

• Wide variety of options to suit different budgets and aesthetic preferences
• Durable and low-maintenance
• Energy-efficient options available
• Industry-leading warranties
• Available nationwide through a network of dealers

Cons of CertainTeed Siding:

• Fiber cement options can be more expensive than vinyl
• Installation costs can vary depending on the material and complexity of the project

Average Cost of CertainTeed Siding: Vinyl: $3 – $8 per square foot installed. Fiber Cement: $9 – $13 per square foot installed.

GAF

While primarily known for roofing products, GAF also offers a line of vinyl siding called GAF Siding. GAF Siding is designed to complement their roofing products and provide a complete exterior solution for homeowners. They offer a range of vinyl siding styles, including traditional lap siding, vertical siding, and shake and shingle siding. GAF Siding is known for its durability, weather resistance, and ease of installation.

Key Features of GAF Siding:

• Vinyl siding construction
• Designed to complement GAF roofing products
• Variety of styles, including lap, vertical, and shake
• Durable and weather-resistant
• Easy to install

Pros of GAF Siding:

• Good value for the price
• Durable and weather-resistant
• Easy to install
• Available in a variety of styles and colors
• Backed by GAF’s reputation and warranty

Cons of GAF Siding:

• Limited product line compared to other siding brands
• May not offer the same level of customization as other options

Average Cost of GAF Siding: $4 – $7 per square foot installed.

LP SmartSide

LP SmartSide is a leading manufacturer of engineered wood siding. Their siding products are made from treated wood strands that are bonded with resins and waxes. LP SmartSide is designed to be durable, weather-resistant, and resistant to rot, insects, and fungal decay. It offers the look of natural wood without the associated maintenance requirements.

Key Features of LP SmartSide Siding:

• Engineered wood construction
• Resistant to rot, insects, and fungal decay
• Offers the look of natural wood
• Pre-primed for easy painting
• 50-year limited warranty

Pros of LP SmartSide Siding:

• Durable and long-lasting
• Resistant to common wood-related problems
• More affordable than natural wood siding
• Easy to install
• Available in a variety of styles and textures

Cons of LP SmartSide Siding:

• Requires painting or staining
• Can be susceptible to moisture damage if not properly installed
• May not have the same authentic look as natural wood

Average Cost of LP SmartSide Siding: $6 – $10 per square foot installed.

Mastic Home Exteriors

Mastic Home Exteriors, a Ply Gem brand, is a well-known manufacturer of vinyl siding, trim, and accessories. They offer a broad range of vinyl siding styles, including traditional lap, Dutch lap, beaded, and vertical siding. Mastic is recognized for its quality, durability, and innovative features, such as their Hang-Tite technology for secure and weather-resistant installation.

Key Features of Mastic Home Exteriors Siding:

• Vinyl siding construction
• Wide range of styles and colors
• Hang-Tite technology for secure installation
• Durable and low-maintenance
• Limited lifetime warranty

Pros of Mastic Home Exteriors Siding:

• Extensive selection of styles and colors to match various architectural styles
• Durable and weather-resistant
• Low maintenance requirements
• Hang-Tite technology ensures a secure and long-lasting installation
• Affordable price point

Cons of Mastic Home Exteriors Siding:

• Vinyl siding can be susceptible to fading or cracking over time, especially in extreme climates
• May not offer the same aesthetic appeal as natural wood or fiber cement siding

Average Cost of Mastic Home Exteriors Siding: $3 – $7 per square foot installed.

Alside

Alside is another prominent manufacturer of vinyl siding, windows, and other building products. They offer a comprehensive range of vinyl siding options, including insulated siding, which provides enhanced energy efficiency. Alside is known for its innovative product designs, quality craftsmanship, and commitment to customer satisfaction.

Key Features of Alside Siding:

• Vinyl siding construction
• Wide range of styles and colors
• Insulated siding options for enhanced energy efficiency
• Durable and low-maintenance
• Limited lifetime warranty

Pros of Alside Siding:

• Extensive selection of styles and colors
• Insulated siding options can help reduce energy costs
• Durable and weather-resistant
• Low maintenance requirements
• Available nationwide through a network of dealers

Cons of Alside Siding:

• Vinyl siding can be susceptible to fading or cracking over time, especially in extreme climates
• May not offer the same aesthetic appeal as natural wood or fiber cement siding

Average Cost of Alside Siding: $3 – $8 per square foot installed.

Royal Building Products

Royal Building Products manufactures a variety of building materials, including vinyl siding, trim, and decking. They offer a range of vinyl siding styles, including traditional lap, Dutch lap, and vertical siding. Royal Building Products is known for its quality, durability, and innovative features, such as its Dura Technology for enhanced impact resistance.

Key Features of Royal Building Products Siding:

• Vinyl siding construction
• Wide range of styles and colors
• Dura Technology for enhanced impact resistance
• Durable and low-maintenance
• Limited lifetime warranty

Pros of Royal Building Products Siding:

• Wide variety of styles and colors
• Dura Technology provides enhanced impact resistance
• Durable and weather-resistant
• Low maintenance requirements

Cons of Royal Building Products Siding:

• Vinyl siding can be susceptible to fading or cracking over time, especially in extreme climates
• May not offer the same aesthetic appeal as natural wood or fiber cement siding

Average Cost of Royal Building Products Siding: $3 – $7 per square foot installed.

Ascend Composite Cladding by Alside

Ascend Composite Cladding is a relatively new product line from Alside, representing a significant advancement in siding technology. It is a composite cladding system designed to offer superior durability, aesthetics, and ease of installation. Unlike traditional vinyl siding, Ascend is made from a fiber-reinforced polymer composite material, which provides exceptional strength and resistance to the elements.

Key Features of Ascend Composite Cladding:

• Composite cladding construction (Fiber Reinforced Polymer)
• Realistic wood-grain texture
• Exceptional durability and impact resistance
• Low maintenance requirements
• Easy to install with self-aligning stack lock
• Class A fire rating

Pros of Ascend Composite Cladding:

• Superior durability compared to vinyl siding
• Authentic wood-grain appearance
• Excellent resistance to fading, cracking, and warping
• Low maintenance – no painting or staining required
• Fast and easy installation
• Contributes to increased home value

Cons of Ascend Composite Cladding:

• Higher initial cost compared to vinyl siding
• Limited color options compared to some vinyl siding brands
• Relatively new product, so long-term performance data is still emerging

Average Cost of Ascend Composite Cladding: $8 – $12 per square foot installed.

Factors to Consider When Choosing a Siding Brand

Selecting the right siding brand involves careful consideration of several factors to ensure you choose a product that meets your specific needs and budget.

Climate

The climate in your region plays a crucial role in determining the best siding material for your home. In areas with harsh winters and hot summers, durable and weather-resistant materials like fiber cement or engineered wood are ideal. In milder climates, vinyl siding may be a suitable and cost-effective option.

Budget

Your budget is a significant factor in the decision-making process. Vinyl siding is generally the most affordable option, while fiber cement and wood siding tend to be more expensive. Consider the long-term costs, including maintenance and potential repairs, when evaluating different siding materials.

Aesthetic Preferences

The aesthetic appeal of your siding is essential for enhancing your home’s curb appeal. Choose a siding style and color that complements your home’s architectural design and your personal preferences. Consider the available color options, textures, and profiles offered by different siding brands.

Maintenance Requirements

Consider the amount of maintenance you’re willing to invest in your siding. Vinyl and fiber cement siding are relatively low-maintenance, while wood siding requires regular painting or staining to prevent rot and insect infestation. Choose a siding material that aligns with your lifestyle and maintenance capabilities.

Energy Efficiency

Siding can contribute to your home’s energy efficiency. Insulated siding options can help reduce heat loss in the winter and heat gain in the summer, lowering your energy bills. Consider the R-value of the siding and its ability to improve your home’s overall energy performance.

Warranty

A comprehensive warranty provides peace of mind and protects your investment. Look for siding brands that offer robust warranties covering defects in materials and workmanship. Review the warranty terms and conditions carefully to understand the coverage and limitations.

Installation

Proper installation is crucial for ensuring the longevity and performance of your siding. Consider hiring a qualified and experienced contractor to install your siding according to the manufacturer’s specifications. Incorrect installation can void the warranty and lead to premature siding failure.

Local Building Codes

Be sure to check your local building codes and regulations before selecting your siding. Some areas may have specific requirements for siding materials, fire resistance, or wind resistance. Ensure that your chosen siding complies with all applicable local codes.

Comparing Siding Brands: A Quick Reference Chart

To help you compare the different siding brands discussed in this guide, here’s a quick reference chart summarizing their key features and average costs:

Brand	Material	Key Features	Average Cost (Installed)
James Hardie	Fiber Cement	Durable, fire-resistant, ColorPlus Technology	$10 – $14 per square foot
CertainTeed	Vinyl, Fiber Cement, Polymer	Wide range of options, innovative designs	Vinyl: $3 – $8, Fiber Cement: $9 – $13 per square foot
GAF	Vinyl	Designed to complement GAF roofing products	$4 – $7 per square foot
LP SmartSide	Engineered Wood	Resistant to rot, insects, and fungal decay	$6 – $10 per square foot
Mastic Home Exteriors	Vinyl	Hang-Tite technology for secure installation	$3 – $7 per square foot
Alside	Vinyl	Insulated siding options for energy efficiency	$3 – $8 per square foot
Royal Building Products	Vinyl	Dura Technology for enhanced impact resistance	$3 – $7 per square foot
Ascend Composite Cladding by Alside	Composite (Fiber Reinforced Polymer)	Superior durability, realistic wood-grain, easy installation	$8 – $12 per square foot

Conclusion: Making the Right Choice for Your Home

Choosing the right home siding brand is a significant investment that can enhance your home’s curb appeal, protect it from the elements, and increase its overall value. By understanding the different siding materials available, exploring the leading brands, and considering your specific needs and budget, you can make an informed decision that will provide lasting beauty and protection for your home for years to come. Remember to consult with a qualified contractor to discuss your options and ensure proper installation for optimal performance and longevity.