How Long Does Siding Last?

Are you considering having your home’s siding redone, but want a better idea of how long it will last?  The answer to this question varies dramatically based on the siding material you choose to use and the type of environment it is exposed to.  Wood generally has the shortest lifespan, while fiber cement has the longest.  Of course, rain, heat, hail, rot, insects, winds, and other natural elements can drastically reduce your siding’s lifespan, and some siding materials are more susceptible than others.  Here are some of the most commonly used siding materials on the market and their respective lifespans:

Wood Siding / Cedar Siding

This classic siding material has been favored by homeowners for its beautiful, natural look.  Cedar siding, in particular, is considered a luxury siding material and is used on many high-end homes.  However, wood siding has by far the most upkeep and the shortest lifespan.  Because wood is a naturally porous material, it is particularly susceptible to rot from moisture and damage from insect burrowing.  It is also highly susceptible to sun bleaching, weathering, and color changes.  To maintain wood siding, fresh coats of sealant must be applied at least every five years.  Depending on the amount of wear and maintenance, wood siding can last between 15 and 40 years.

Aluminum Siding / Metal Siding

Aluminum and metal siding has long been considered one of the cheapest options for home siding material and boasts decent durability for its price.  However, aluminum is particularly vulnerable to scratches and dents, so areas that experience hail or homes with heavy tree cover may want to avoid this material.  Aluminum siding is often painted, though the paint rarely survives longer than 15 years before needing to be repainted.  The paint is often an enamel type that eventually fades, becomes chalky, and washes away. Overall, aluminum and metal siding can last between 20 and 40 years.

Vinyl Siding

One of the most popular siding materials of modern-day, vinyl siding is loved for its cost-effectiveness and relative durability.  Made of strong PVC plastic, vinyl siding is generally resistant to most weather conditions, though sun exposure can cause the vinyl to crack or fade; UV-protective paint is often suggested for vinyl siding. For vinyl in particular, the quality of the initial installation job can drastically change its expected lifespan.  Improperly installed vinyl siding may warp or experience water leaks, so it’s important to choose a trustworthy contractor to install this siding material.  Overall, vinyl siding is expected to last between 30 and 40 years.

Fiber Cement Siding

Invented by James Hardie in the 1980s, fiber cement siding is easily the most durable siding material.  It is made using a combination of cement, sand, and cellulose fibers, giving it an impressive ability to withstand damage from the elements.  Fiber cement is also capable of mimicking the look of wood or other siding materials while maintaining its strength.  This material also boasts minimal maintenance requirements; a simple wash now and again and a coat of fresh paint every 15 years will keep it looking new.  The most common issues people experience with fiber cement is due to improper installation; gaps in boards and over-driven nails can compromise its integrity.  For this reason, it’s especially important to choose a quality installation team for fiber cement.  James Hardie siding is one of the most popular brands of siding today and can last between 50 and 100 years.

Choosing The Best Siding For You & Estimating How Many Years It Should Last

If you’re weighing your siding options, reach out to us at TrueBlue Roofing & Siding to get an estimate on your siding replacement costs.  We always suggest our customers use James Hardie siding due to its low cleaning and maintenance requirements as well as its unbeatable longevity.  If you’re looking for a quality contractor specializing exclusively in exterior home renovation, be sure to contact our team.