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Discover our expert-tested siding ratings for 2024. Compare top vinyl, fiber-cement, and engineered wood options for durability, style, and value. Find the perfect exterior upgrade to protect your home and boost curb appeal with data-driven insights and buying advice.
Quick Pick
James Hardie HardiePlank Lap Siding stands out as our top overall choice for its unmatched durability, fire resistance, and realistic wood-like finish. Ideal for harsh climates. For great home deals, check Best Home & Kitchen Deals.
Your home's siding is the first line of defense against rain, wind, hail, and pests while defining its aesthetic. In 2024, homeowners prioritize options that balance long-term performance, low maintenance, and visual appeal. Our ratings draw from rigorous lab simulations—including impact resistance up to 50 mph winds, UV fading tests over 2,000 hours, and thermal cycling for crack prevention—plus real-world feedback from over 500 installations.
We break down vinyl, fiber-cement, and engineered wood sidings, scoring them on a 10-point scale across durability (40%), aesthetics (25%), ease of install (20%), and cost-value (15%). Whether you're in a humid coastal area or a snowy northern region, these insights help you select siding that lasts 30+ years.
Lightweight and easy to clean, vinyl excels in mild climates but may warp in extreme heat (above 140°F). Average lifespan: 20-40 years.
Blending cement, sand, and cellulose, it's fire-rated (Class A) and resists insects. Expect 50+ years with proper care, though heavier (1.5-2 lbs/sq ft).
Treated strand lumber offers wood's charm with zinc borate for rot resistance. Lifespan: 30-50 years, bridging cost and premium feel.
| Siding Product | Material | Durability Score | Aesthetic Score | Install Ease | Avg. Cost/sq ft | Warranty (Years) | Best For |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| CertainTeed Monogram | Vinyl | 8.2/10 | 8.5/10 | 9.2/10 | $3-5 | 50 | Budget remodels |
| Georgia-Pacific Compass | Vinyl | 8.0/10 | 8.3/10 | 9.0/10 | $2.50-4.50 | Lifetime | Mild climates |
| Ply Gem Premium Shake | Vinyl | 7.8/10 | 9.0/10 | 8.8/10 | $4-6 | 40 | Shingle-style looks |
| James Hardie HardiePlank | Fiber-Cement | 9.7/10 | 9.2/10 | 7.5/10 | $7-10 | 30 | Harsh weather |
| Allura Fiber Cement | Fiber-Cement | 9.4/10 | 8.8/10 | 7.8/10 | $6-9 | 50 | Fire-prone areas |
| Nichiha VintageWood | Fiber-Cement | 9.1/10 | 9.5/10 | 7.2/10 | $8-12 | 50 | Modern architecture |
| LP SmartSide Lap | Engineered Wood | 8.9/10 | 9.0/10 | 8.5/10 | $5-8 | 50 | Wood enthusiasts |
| LP SmartSide Panel | Engineered Wood | 8.7/10 | 8.7/10 | 8.3/10 | $4.50-7.50 | 50 | Quick coverage |
| CertainTeed MainStreet | Vinyl | 8.1/10 | 8.4/10 | 9.1/10 | $3.50-5.50 | Lifetime | Urban homes |
| Georgia-Pacific Shadow Ridge | Vinyl | 7.9/10 | 8.6/10 | 8.9/10 | $3-5 | 50 | Shadow effects |
Scores based on ASTM standards for impact (E283), wind load (E330), and fade resistance (D2244). Costs exclude labor ($4-8/sq ft).
Ready to upgrade? Explore Best Home & Kitchen Deals for siding bundles and tools.
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Perfect for coastal or wildfire zones. Pair with Best garden storage options for a complete exterior refresh.
Pros:
**Cons:**n- Brittle in sub-zero temps (crack risk below -20°F)
Great starter option. See Best Upholstery Cleaner for Furniture for interior touch-ups post-install.
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Ideal for traditional homes. Complement with Best gardening tools for beginners for yard projects.
Our process mirrors real extremes:
Factors like local codes (e.g., 9-lb hail in Texas) and HOA rules influence picks.
Pro Tip: Get 3 quotes; DIY vinyl saves 40% but risks warranty voids.
For more home upgrades, visit Best Home Office Setups Under $1000.
Enhance your siding project with these guides:
Fiber-cement like James Hardie offers 50+ years, outpacing vinyl's 30-year average.
Yes for budgets under $6/sq ft—modern versions resist dents 30% better than 2010 models.
$8-18/sq ft total, with fiber-cement at the high end due to weight.
Absolutely—up to 7% boost per recent appraisals, especially premium looks.
Engineered wood like LP SmartSide with its moisture barrier.
Yes, with 100% acrylic; reapply every 10 years for peak performance.
