Choosing the Best Siding Material for Your Pacific Northwest Home
Choosing new siding is one of the most important decisions you’ll make for your home. This choice impacts everything: your home’s aesthetic style, its defense against the elements, your long-term maintenance workload, and your overall budget. Here in the Pacific Northwest, where our homes face a unique combination of persistent rain, humidity, and temperature swings, selecting the right material is absolutely critical.
This guide is designed to be your expert resource. We’ll break down the top siding materials suited for our climate, comparing their strengths and weaknesses to help you make an informed, confident decision for your home’s future.
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Key Factors to Consider When Choosing Siding
Before falling in love with a particular look, it’s helpful to evaluate each material based on these four key criteria:
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Durability & Weather Resistance: How well does it stand up to moisture, wind, and impacts? Is it resistant to rot, pests, and fire?
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Maintenance: How much time and money will you need to invest to keep the siding looking great and performing its best? This includes painting, staining, and cleaning.
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Aesthetics & Style: Does the material complement your home’s architecture? Does it come in the colors and textures that match your personal vision?
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Cost & Return on Investment: What is the upfront cost of the material and installation? More importantly, what is its lifespan and long-term value? A higher initial investment can often lead to a greater return through durability and low maintenance.
A Comparison of Top Siding Materials for Our Climate
Fiber Cement Siding
Often considered the all-around champion for the Pacific Northwest. Made from a composite of cement, sand, and cellulose fibers, it is engineered to be virtually indestructible. It can be manufactured with a smooth finish or a convincing wood-grain texture.
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Best for: Homeowners seeking maximum durability, minimal long-term maintenance, and a high return on investment.
Learn more about Fiber Cement Siding
Natural Cedar Siding
The classic choice for timeless Pacific Northwest beauty. Cedar contains natural oils (tannins) that make it inherently resistant to rot and insects. Nothing can truly replicate the authentic warmth and elegance of real wood siding.
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Best for: Homeowners who prioritize natural aesthetics and are prepared for the regular maintenance (staining or sealing every 3-5 years) required to keep it protected and beautiful.
Learn more about Natural Cedar Siding
Engineered Wood Siding
A smart and innovative alternative that combines the beauty of wood with modern technology. Made from wood strands and resins, it’s treated to resist fungal decay and pests. It provides the look of traditional wood siding with significantly more stability and less maintenance.
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Best for: Homeowners who love the look of wood but desire a lower-maintenance and often more budget-friendly option than natural cedar.
Learn more about Engineered Wood Siding
Siding Materials: At-a-Glance Comparison
Making the Right Choice for Your Home
There is no single “best” siding material—only the best material for your specific home, budget, and lifestyle. Our role is to act as your expert consultant, providing honest advice and detailed information to help you navigate this important decision.
We can bring samples to your home, discuss the pros and cons in the context of your property, and provide a clear estimate for your preferred options. When you’re ready to explore your options further, our team is here to help.