Spring and summer are popular for homeowners to start planning their exterior remodeling projects. If you’ve been thinking about replacing your siding in the next few months, one of the first decisions you’ll need to make is which siding material to install. So, what is the best siding for a house? The Aztec Homes team is here to help.
Continue reading this post to learn which siding material is our top choice for Indianapolis homeowners and the pros and cons of other siding materials to help you make the best choice for your home. To talk directly to our team about how the siding process works or to schedule your project, contact us online or by calling 317-279-4268.
The Best Siding for a House: James Hardie Fiber Cement Siding
One of our goals as a company is to provide our customers with the highest-quality products on the market. James Hardie is the leading fiber cement siding manufacturer in the country and is widely recognized as one of the most durable siding materials around.
Benefits of Choosing James Hardie Siding for Your Home
Here are just a few of the benefits you can expect when you choose James Hardie siding for your siding replacement project.
Durability
Here in the Indianapolis area, we’re no strangers to weather extremes like ice, wind, and snow. James Hardie uses the HardieZone® system to create products specifically designed to withstand climate extremes in different areas of the country.
For our customers, we install the HZ5® product line, which is made to hold up in freezing temperatures, snow, ice, and more. The result is a long-lasting material that will look great for years.
Design
James Hardie provides a number of different designs and styles to help you create a modern curb appeal that reflects your personal style. With styles like Hardie® lap plank, shingle, and vertical, there’s a design for everyone. We recommend using the company’s exterior house color visualizer to help you choose the right option for your home.
You can also look through our project gallery for more James Hardie siding design inspiration.
Damage-resistance
When it comes to the best siding for a house, fortitude should be a priority. James Hardie fiber cement siding is resistant to damage from common local pests like woodpeckers, carpenter bees, and termites. These critters can’t penetrate James Hardie siding, so you won’t have to worry about damage to your home’s exterior. As a result, you can expect your James Hardie siding to last upwards of 30 years.
Other Siding Material Options
If you’re not convinced that James Hardie fiber cement siding is the best siding for a house, here are some other siding materials to consider.
Metal Siding for a House
Metal siding can give your home a unique, industrial look. Before choosing this material for your exterior, consider the following pros and cons:
Pros:
- It’s a low-maintenance material, as it won’t absorb water
- It’s a fire-resistant material as it’s non-combustible
- It’s an energy-efficient option, as it reflects heat from the sun
Cons:
- It’s generally more expensive than other siding materials
- It can be easily dented, showing signs of damage more easily than other materials
- It can be more difficult to install, leading to higher installation fees
Vinyl Siding for a House
Vinyl siding is one of the most popular materials for siding replacements across the country. Here’s what to keep in mind if you choose this option for your siding replacement project.
Pros:
- It’s a relatively inexpensive material, so you can upgrade your exterior on a budget
- It’s available in a variety of styles and colors
- It’s a low-maintenance option and most minor repairs can be easily fixed
Cons:
- It will likely fade over time, due to prolonged exposure to the sun
- It’s vulnerable to moisture issues, allowing water to seep beneath your siding
- It’s more susceptible to damage compared to other materials
Wood Siding for a House
Wood siding is popular with homeowners looking to create a rustic look for their home’s exterior. Here are a few pros and cons we consider regarding the best siding for a house.
Pros:
- It can be painted or stained in virtually any color for endless design options
- You can choose from multiple wood types like pine, cedar, and more
- It’s an environmentally friendly siding choice
Cons:
- It attracts pests like termites
- It’s susceptible to water damage and can easily crack, warp, or rot
- It can be more expensive compared to other siding options
Addressing Indianapolis-Specific Factors When Choosing Siding
When selecting the best siding for your home in Indianapolis, it’s important to consider the unique weather conditions, local regulations, and energy efficiency benefits. These factors can impact not only the durability of your siding but also your home’s overall comfort and maintenance requirements.
Weather Conditions in Indianapolis
Indianapolis experiences a wide range of weather conditions throughout the year, from frigid winters with heavy snowfall to hot and humid summers. Your siding should be able to withstand these environmental challenges:
- Winter Resilience: The freezing temperatures and frequent snowstorms in Indianapolis can cause some siding materials, like vinyl, to crack or become brittle. James Hardie fiber cement siding, however, is specifically engineered with the HardieZone® HZ5® formulation, designed to resist freeze-thaw cycles.
- Humidity Resistance: High humidity levels in summer can contribute to moisture damage, mold growth, and warping in certain siding materials, particularly wood. Fiber cement and metal siding offer superior moisture resistance.
- Wind Durability: Strong winds from seasonal storms can rip off lightweight siding materials. Fiber cement and metal siding provide better resistance against high winds, making them excellent choices for Indianapolis homes.
Key Factors for Siding in Indianapolis
Weather Challenges
Indianapolis homes endure freezing winters, humid summers, and strong winds, making siding durability essential.
- Cold Resistance: Fiber cement (James Hardie) and metal siding resist cracking in freeze-thaw cycles.
- Moisture Protection: Wood siding is prone to rot, while fiber cement and vinyl resist humidity damage.
- Wind Durability: Heavier materials like fiber cement withstand storms better than lightweight vinyl.
HOA & Local Rules
Before selecting siding, check for neighborhood restrictions on colors and materials, especially in historic districts or HOA-governed areas. Our team can help ensure compliance.
Energy Efficiency
Siding with added insulation can lower heating and cooling costs.
- Best Choices: Insulated vinyl and fiber cement with an underlayment improve energy efficiency.
- Metal Siding: Reflects heat in summer but needs extra insulation for winter.
Avoid These Common Siding Mistakes
1. Choosing Price Over Durability
Low-cost materials like basic vinyl may save money upfront but require frequent repairs. Investing in fiber cement or metal siding ensures long-term value with fewer maintenance costs.
2. Ignoring Insulation
Many homeowners forget to add insulation under siding, leading to higher energy bills. Opt for insulated vinyl or fiber cement with a house wrap to improve efficiency year-round.
Here to Help You Make the Right Choice
Our team here at Aztec Homes is ready and waiting to help you choose the best siding for a house. To learn more about our siding replacement services or to help you start budgeting for your siding for house cost, contact us to request a free quote.
