Choosing the right siding isn’t just a home improvement task. It’s a chance to show off your style and boost your curb appeal in one fell swoop. If you’re drawn to that classic, warm look, professional wood siding installation is where timeless beauty meets endless possibilities. With so many textures and tones to choose from, you can shape the entire vibe of your home, whether you’re going for a cozy cabin or a polished farmhouse.
Before you settle on a style, it’s worth exploring your options. Each type of wood siding has its strengths, quirks, and costs. A little insight now means fewer regrets later, so let’s learn about seven varieties of wood siding and which is best for you.
1. Cedar Siding
It’s the durable classic. Cedar siding is often the first choice for homeowners who want beauty and resilience rolled into one. You’ll love how cedar naturally resists rot, decay, and insect damage, making it a durable option even in damp or humid climates. But cedar’s real charm? That warm, eye-catching color range, from golden honey tones to deep, earthy reds. It can be a showstopper for any exterior.
Cedar is also a chameleon. Let it age into a silvery gray, stain it to bring out the grain, or paint it for a bold, custom look. Whether you’re aiming for a rustic, charming cottage or a polished, modern cabin, cedar gives you the creative freedom to bring your vision to life.
2. Redwood Siding
Want your home to stop traffic in the best way? Redwood siding has a serious wow factor. Known for its vibrant color and straight grain, redwood has a high-end look that’s hard to beat. But it’s not just a pretty face. Redwood also holds up beautifully against moisture and insects, making it as practical as it is striking.
Thanks to its natural beauty, you won’t need heavy stains or paints to make it shine. A simple, clear sealant enhances its appearance while protecting it from the elements. Redwood is a standout contender if you’re after siding that turns heads while standing up to Mother Nature.
3. Pine Siding
When affordability and versatility are high on your list, pine siding delivers. Pine is easier on the budget than many hardwoods and is suitable for various siding styles, including clapboard, board and batten, and shiplap.
While pine doesn’t have the natural resistance to decay that cedar or redwood boast, siding companies in Salt Lake City and beyond can treat it with preservatives and finishes to significantly extend its lifespan. With the right treatments and finishes, it can last for years. Pine’s smooth texture and light color make it easy to customize with paint or stain, so you can switch from one style to another without missing a beat.
4. Douglas Fir Siding
Douglas fir brings strength, stability, and a clean aesthetic to your siding project. Its straight, uniform grain gives homes a sleek and polished appearance, ideal if you prefer a refined, understated style. Fir’s natural tones—light browns with subtle orange hints—work beautifully with transparent finishes that highlight the wood’s character.
But Douglas fir’s merits go beyond the surface. It holds its shape like a champ, meaning less maintenance in the long run, especially compared to other woods. So, if you want strong, stylish siding that won’t throw you curveballs down the road, Douglas fir has your back. It’s a low-maintenance option, but it still offers that perfect warmth of real wood.
5. Cypress Siding
Consider something a little different from the usual suspects. Cypress isn’t as commonly discussed as cedar or pine, but it deserves your attention if you want a siding material built to last. It contains a natural preservative called cypressene, which helps it stand firm against insects and decay without constant babysitting.
What sets cypress apart is its unique grain pattern. It’s bold and eye-catching, setting your home apart from the neighbors’. For a home exterior that feels a little different, cypress offers that one-of-a-kind appeal. It’s particularly well-suited for humid climates and coastal areas where other woods might throw in the towel. Take a second look at cypress if you’re looking for durability with a twist of personality.
6. Engineered Wood Siding
If you love the charm of natural wood but not the upkeep that comes with it, engineered wood is your siding soulmate. Engineered wood combines real wood fibers with resins and waxes to create a product that mimics the appearance of solid wood while boosting resistance to weather, pests, and moisture.
It’s often easier to install and lighter on the walls (and wallet!) than traditional hardwood options. Plus, many engineered wood siding products come pre-primed and ready to paint, so you can customize them without the hassle of prep work. Engineered wood checks your boxes if you’re after that sweet spot between beauty and practicality.
7. Reclaimed Wood Siding
If sustainability is important to you, reclaimed wood siding allows you to give new life to old materials. Salvaged from barns, warehouses, and historical buildings, reclaimed wood carries a rich history and offers unique textures and weathered finishes that you simply can’t replicate with new materials. All that character makes your home tell a story before guests even step through your door.
Reclaimed wood is a smart pick for anyone who values sustainability since it gives new life to old materials and helps reduce deforestation. Be aware, though, that it often requires extra preparation and treatment to make it structurally sound for modern applications. But the payoff is well worth it for homeowners who value authenticity and sustainability.
Siding Styles
Selecting the right wood siding is only half the battle. How you style it makes all the difference. Your siding pattern should highlight your home’s personality and play nice with its architecture. For example:
- Lap or clapboard works beautifully with colonial or traditional-style homes.
- Board and batten brings a charming, rustic farmhouse vibe to life.
- Shingles add texture and depth, perfect for coastal cottages or craftsman homes.
No matter which wood you choose, pairing it with the right style brings everything together, giving your home a cohesive and polished look.
Make Your Choice with Confidence
Wood siding stands out as one of the most beautiful and versatile choices for personalizing your home’s exterior. Whether you’re captivated by the timeless beauty of cedar, the luxury of redwood, or the unique character of reclaimed wood, there’s a perfect fit waiting to bring your home to life.
Explore your options carefully and work with a trusted contractor. You’ll upgrade your home’s look and make a wise, lasting investment in its value and protection at the same time. The right wood siding lets your home tell your story like no other material can. So go ahead and make your pick and watch your home shine.