7 Types of Siding Explained (2025 Guide)

Your home’s exterior does more than just make a first impression — it protects your investment, boosts curb appeal, and defines your property’s character. Choosing the right siding can completely transform how your home looks and performs. With so many types of siding available today, homeowners have more options than ever to balance style, durability, and budget.

If you’re thinking about updating your home’s exterior, you can explore materials and design options on our siding page to see which products best fit your goals.

In this guide, you’ll learn:

• The most common siding materials and how they differ
• The pros, cons, and lifespan of each siding type
• Factors to consider when choosing new siding
• Maintenance tips to keep your exterior looking new

Why Choosing the Right Siding Matters

Siding isn’t just a design choice — it’s a critical part of your home’s structure. The right material improves weather resistance, insulation, and long-term value. Homeowners in Mankato and surrounding areas experience a full range of weather conditions, making it essential to choose siding that stands up to snow, wind, heat, and humidity.

Here’s why your decision matters:

• Curb Appeal and Value: Siding covers most of your home’s exterior, so the color and texture have a huge impact on how your property looks and feels.
• Protection: Quality siding prevents moisture damage, rot, and pest intrusion, keeping your home’s framework solid for decades.
• Energy Efficiency: Some materials improve insulation and help maintain consistent indoor temperatures, reducing energy costs.
• Maintenance: Different siding types require varying levels of care. Knowing this upfront can save you time and money long-term.
• Longevity: The right siding material can last anywhere from 20 to 50 years, depending on climate, quality, and upkeep.

7 Main Types of Siding (and What Sets Them Apart)

Each siding option has unique characteristics that affect appearance, maintenance, and price. Below is a breakdown of the most popular materials used on homes today, along with key details to help you decide which fits your home best.

1. Vinyl Siding

Vinyl remains one of the most widely used siding materials for its affordability, versatility, and low maintenance. It’s made from PVC (polyvinyl chloride) and comes in hundreds of colors and styles, including options that mimic wood or cedar shakes.

Pros:

• Low cost and quick installation
• Resistant to pests, rot, and fading
• Virtually maintenance-free — just occasional cleaning

Cons:

• Can crack or warp under extreme heat
• Difficult to repair individual panels without color mismatch

Average Lifespan: 25–40 years

Best For: Homeowners seeking a budget-friendly, low-maintenance exterior in Mankato and surrounding areas.

2. Fiber Cement Siding

Fiber cement is made from a mix of cement, sand, and cellulose fibers, offering exceptional durability and a realistic wood appearance. It’s highly resistant to fire, insects, and rot — a major advantage for long-term homeowners.

Pros:

• Extremely durable and impact-resistant
• Can mimic wood, stucco, or stone
• Noncombustible and moisture-resistant

Cons:

• Heavier and more labor-intensive to install
• Requires repainting every 10–15 years

Average Lifespan: 40–50 years

Best For: Homeowners wanting a premium, durable siding with a natural aesthetic and long lifespan.

3. Engineered Wood Siding

Engineered wood combines real wood fibers with resins and wax to create a product that looks like traditional wood but resists moisture and pests far better. It offers the warmth of wood without as much maintenance.

Pros:

• Authentic wood texture with added durability
• Less expensive than solid wood
• Eco-friendly and recyclable options available

Cons:

• Must be properly sealed and maintained to avoid moisture absorption
• Color can fade over time without UV protection

Average Lifespan: 30–40 years

Best For: Homeowners who love the look of wood but want a stronger, longer-lasting option.

4. Metal Siding (Steel or Aluminum)

Metal siding is becoming increasingly popular for modern homes and rural properties. Steel and aluminum panels provide exceptional strength, energy efficiency, and fire resistance.

Pros:

• Virtually maintenance-free
• Resistant to fire, pests, and warping
• Reflects sunlight for improved energy performance

Cons:

• Can dent under heavy impact
• Higher initial cost than vinyl

Average Lifespan: 40–60 years

Best For: Contemporary homes or commercial-style designs where sleek, low-maintenance exteriors are preferred.

5. Wood Siding

Wood siding remains a timeless choice for homeowners who want a natural, classic look. Cedar, pine, and redwood are the most common varieties. It requires more care than synthetic materials but rewards you with unmatched charm.

Pros:

• Beautiful, natural appearance
• Easily customizable with paint or stain
• Renewable and environmentally friendly

Cons:

• Requires routine sealing or painting
• Vulnerable to rot, insects, and weather damage

Average Lifespan: 20–40 years (depending on maintenance)

Best For: Historic or craftsman-style homes where authenticity and character are priorities.

6. Stone and Stone Veneer

Stone siding delivers a luxurious, high-end look that lasts for generations. Full stone is extremely durable but heavy and costly, while veneer options provide similar beauty at a lower price.

Pros:

• Long-lasting and weather-resistant
• Adds texture and dimension to your exterior
• Virtually maintenance-free

Cons:

• High installation cost
• Limited insulation properties

Average Lifespan: 50+ years

Best For: Homeowners seeking a premium, timeless design that enhances resale value.

7. Composite or Polymer Siding

These newer materials combine engineered plastics or resins to create panels that resist weather, fading, and cracking. Composite siding is designed for longevity and minimal upkeep.

Pros:

• Lightweight yet durable
• Mold- and moisture-resistant
• Available in a wide range of colors and finishes

Cons:

• Higher upfront cost
• Limited availability depending on brand

Average Lifespan: 30–50 years

Best For: Homeowners wanting a low-maintenance, high-performance material with modern appeal.

Comparing Siding Materials: Cost, Durability, and Care

Here’s a quick side-by-side comparison of popular siding types to help guide your decision.

Siding Type	Average Lifespan	Maintenance	Cost (per sq. ft.)	Notable Feature
Vinyl	25–40 years	Low	$3–$8	Affordable and versatile
Fiber Cement	40–50 years	Moderate	$7–$12	Fire- and pest-resistant
Engineered Wood	30–40 years	Moderate	$6–$11	Natural wood look
Metal (Steel/Aluminum)	40–60 years	Low	$8–$14	Modern, durable finish
Wood	20–40 years	High	$7–$15	Classic, authentic style
Stone Veneer	50+ years	Low	$10–$25	High-end curb appeal
Composite/Polymer	30–50 years	Low	$9–$16	Fade-resistant, modern option

Costs are averages for materials and installation combined and may vary based on property size and location in Mankato and surrounding areas.

Factors to Consider Before Choosing Siding

Selecting siding goes beyond appearance — it’s about performance, maintenance, and long-term value. Keep these factors in mind before making your final decision.

Local Climate

Minnesota’s temperature swings and winter moisture mean siding must resist expansion, contraction, and moisture penetration. Fiber cement and vinyl tend to perform well in these conditions.

Architectural Style

Different homes suit different siding profiles.

• Traditional homes look best with lap siding or cedar shakes.
• Modern homes benefit from vertical panels or metal finishes.
• Farmhouse designs pair beautifully with board-and-batten siding.

Maintenance Level

If you prefer minimal upkeep, vinyl, fiber cement, or metal siding are excellent choices. Wood siding, while beautiful, requires more ongoing attention.

Color and Finish

Lighter shades reflect heat and hide dust, while darker colors emphasize architectural features. Ask for color samples and view them in natural daylight before deciding.

Budget and ROI

Vinyl and engineered wood deliver strong returns for affordability and durability, while premium materials like stone or fiber cement add significant resale value.

Maintaining Your Siding for Long-Term Performance

Proper care helps extend your siding’s lifespan and keeps your home looking its best year-round and, better yet, saves you money in the long run!

Regular Cleaning

Wash your siding at least once a year to remove dirt, mildew, and debris.

• Vinyl and metal: Use mild soap and a soft brush or low-pressure washer.
• Wood and fiber cement: Avoid high-pressure washing — a gentle rinse works best.

Annual Inspections

Check for cracks, chips, or warping, especially after major weather events in Mankato and surrounding areas. Early repairs prevent larger issues down the road.

Repainting or Sealing

• Wood siding should be resealed or painted every 3–5 years.
• Fiber cement may need a fresh coat every 10–15 years.
• Vinyl and metal typically maintain color without repainting.

Gutter and Drainage Maintenance

Keep gutters clear so water doesn’t pool near siding panels. Proper drainage prevents rot, staining, and mold growth.

Ready to Upgrade Your Home’s Exterior?

Siding plays a vital role in protecting your home and defining its character. Whether you prefer the modern look of metal, the timeless beauty of wood, or the versatility of vinyl, today’s options offer exceptional durability and design flexibility.

For homeowners in Mankato and surrounding areas, choosing the right siding can mean decades of lasting performance and style — all while increasing property value. If you’re considering a siding upgrade or want expert guidance on materials and colors, contact us today to schedule a consultation with our experienced team. We’ll help you choose a siding solution that perfectly fits your home, your budget, and your lifestyle.