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Building Contractors’ Siding Options

Monday, July 14, 2025

When building a model or a spec home, general contractors face crucial decisions that affect not only construction costs but also curb appeal, durability, and buyer interest. One of the most important elements is siding, which protects the home from the elements while playing a major role in aesthetic appeal.

Choosing the right siding option involves balancing initial costs, maintenance requirements, longevity, and market expectations. Below is a cost-benefit analysis of the most common siding materials used in model home construction.

Vinyl Siding

Cost: $3 to $6 per square foot (installed)

Benefits:

• Low initial cost: One of the most affordable siding materials.
• Low maintenance: No painting required; easy to clean.
• Versatile aesthetics: Comes in a wide range of colors and styles.
• Durability: Resistant to rot and insect damage.

Drawbacks: Can crack in extreme cold and is not as premium in appearance as other options.

Best for: Entry-level to mid-range model homes targeting cost-conscious buyers.

Fiber Cement (e.g., Hardie Plank)

Cost: $5 to $13 per square foot (installed)

Benefits:

• High durability: Resists fire, insects, and weather damage.
• Low maintenance: Holds paint longer than wood.
• Upscale appearance: Mimics wood or masonry at a lower cost.

Drawbacks: It is heavier and more labor-intensive to install and has a higher upfront cost than vinyl.

Best for: Mid-range to high-end homes; good return on investment (ROI) due to its aesthetic appeal and longevity.

Engineered Wood Siding

Cost: $6 to $12 per square foot (installed)

Benefits:

• Natural wood appearance: Offers real-wood aesthetics at a lower cost.
• Durability: Engineered to resist moisture and pests.
• Ease of installation: Lighter and easier to work with than fiber cement.

Drawbacks: Requires painting or sealing and is not as fire-resistant as fiber cement.

Best for: Homes where natural aesthetics are a selling point, especially in suburban or semi-rural settings.

Traditional Wood Siding (Cedar, Redwood)

Cost: $6 to $12+ per square foot (installed)

Benefits:

• Timeless look: High visual appeal and premium feel.
• Customizable: Can be stained or painted in any color.

Drawbacks: High-maintenance siding that requires regular painting or sealing and is prone to rot, pests, and weathering.

Best for: Luxury or custom homes in premium developments.

Stucco

Cost: $7 to $15 per square foot (installed)

Benefits:

• Durable: Excellent in dry, warm climates.
• Energy-efficient: Provides good insulation.
• Modern look: Popular for Southwest or Mediterranean styles.

Drawbacks: Can crack in areas with significant freeze-thaw cycles and is less versatile in colder or wetter climates.

Best for: Regionally appropriate designs, especially in the Southwest U.S.

Brick Veneer

Cost: $40 to $60 per square foot (installed)

Benefits:

• Classic appearance: Long-lasting and attractive.
• Low maintenance: Very durable and resistant to elements.
• Strong resale value: Often seen as a high-end feature.

Drawbacks: High upfront cost and requires skilled labor for proper installation.

Best for: High-end model homes or developments emphasizing timeless style and durability.

Conclusion: Strategic Siding Selection

General contractors should align their siding choice with the target market, regional climate, and price point of the model home.

Here’s a quick summary guide:

Ultimately, the siding material not only affects construction cost but also the perceived value of the home. A well-chosen siding can lead to faster sales and higher buyer satisfaction, especially when model homes are used as marketing tools for larger developments.