There are plenty of siding products on the market, although a few manufacturers dominate the nationwide industry. If you're not using cedar siding on your home, you'll usually be selecting between vinyl, engineered wood strand, or fiber cement siding. Each option has advantages and disadvantages, so choosing the best one might seem daunting.

If you aren't sure which is suitable for your home, your best bet is always to consult with a trusted local siding contractor. However, it's still helpful to understand how they differ and which aspects truly matter for your home. This guide will cover three factors you'll want to consider before choosing the best siding product to install.

1. Durability and Strength

Durability is always a concern when installing siding, but the importance of this factor will depend on your personal preferences. In general, vinyl siding tends to be the least durable option, although insulated vinyl can stand up well against hail and other typical damage sources. Fiber cement and engineered wood strand siding tend to be more durable against impacts.

While improved durability is an undeniable advantage, you should consider how often your home may face these threats. If you live in an area without severe storms, vinyl siding may offer sufficient protection. On the other hand, a more durable choice may be worth the added cost if you want to ensure your home's siding continues to look great even when facing dangerous weather.

2. Long-Term Care

Most homeowners don't want to add more maintenance items to their to-do lists, but you shouldn't ignore the necessity of long-term care for your siding. Like your roof, your home's siding is your first line of defense against the elements. Improper maintenance can lead to water infiltration, which can ultimately be a far more costly and frustrating problem to address.

In most cases, vinyl siding requires little maintenance beyond routine cleaning. Other products may require substantially more care, with wood strand-based siding typically requiring the most long-term maintenance. If you're considering one of these alternatives, be sure to discuss its maintenance requirements with your installer before making a final decision.

3. Appearance

Along with your roof, your siding is one of the most visible aspects of your home. When choosing a siding, you should select an option that works with your overall aesthetic, and what makes you happy. Most options include a wide range of color choices, so you should be able to find one for your application regardless of which manufacturer or material you choose.

However, it's also worth considering the durability and warranty of the finish. Vinyl products can fade, so it's worth choosing one that comes with a guarantee that covers this issue. Other products may have separate warranties for their paint, so this is another factor to consider when making your selection. Paying attention to this warranty can help ensure your siding continues to look good for many years.

To learn more information, reach out to a siding contractor near you.