But with so many materials to choose from—vinyl, fiber cement, composite, and more—many homeowners wonder: What is the best siding to increase home value? Let’s take a closer look at why siding matters, what ROI you can expect, and how to choose the right option.
The ROI for new siding varies depending on the material. According to the 2024 Cost vs. Value Report, fiber-cement siding adds an average of $18,230 to a home’s resale value nationally. The same report states vinyl siding adds an average of $13,957 nationally. These figures highlight why siding replacement is consistently ranked among the top home improvement projects.
Replacing siding is one of the smartest investments you can make, especially if your current siding is showing signs of wear. Not only does it make your home look better, but it also assures potential buyers that they won’t have to budget for costly exterior repairs soon after purchase.
New siding also improves energy efficiency, protects your home’s structure, and enhances curb appeal. In general, enhanced curb appeal is one of the most influential selling points for a home. In fact, about 48% of top real estate agents cited it as one of the strongest features that helps sell properties, according to a 2024 report.
Composite siding is a rapidly growing category with no mainstream ROI data yet reported in the Cost vs. Value Report. However, it often outperforms both fiber cement and vinyl in real-world applications. It offers exceptional durability, versatile design options, and easier installation.
Homeowners and contractors alike are increasingly turning to composite siding for its balance of long-term value and aesthetic appeal. Here’s how these popular siding materials compare:
| Feature | Vinyl Siding | Fiber-Cement Siding | Composite Siding |
| Durability | Moderate; can crack or warp | High; resistant to fire, insects, rot | Excellent; resists moisture, pests, impacts |
| Maintenance | Moderate; needs occasional washing to prolong life | Low; may need repainting or restaining | Very low; easy cleaning, minimal upkeep |
| Installation | Easy; lightweight | Labor-intensive; heavy panels | Easier than fiber-cement |
| Appearance | Many colors, limited realism | Mimics wood but may show seams | Realistic wood textures, fewer seams |
| Weather Resistance | Good but prone to melting/buckling | Strong but can crack in freeze/thaw cycles | Excellent; handles extreme weather well |
| Cost | Affordable | Mid to upper range | Mid to upper range |
Fiber-cement siding is tough and versatile but its heavier weight adds to labor costs and installation time. Composite siding, in contrast, often comes in longer panel lengths, requiring fewer seams for a cleaner, modern finish. It’s also easier to install, saving on labor expenses.
Vinyl siding remains a popular choice for its affordability and low maintenance needs. However, it’s less durable and prone to impact damage, warping, or even melting in extreme heat. Composite siding lasts longer under harsh conditions and offers a more natural, high-end look.
Absolutely—especially if your current siding is showing signs of wear. Damaged, faded, or outdated siding can drag down your home’s value and deter buyers. Here are some signs it might be time to consider replacement:
If you see these issues, or if you’re simply planning to sell soon, investing in new siding is one of the best ways to make your home market-ready.
So, why is composite siding the ideal choice, whether you’re selling or planning to stay for decades? Here are a few standout reasons:
Composite siding is engineered for long-lasting performance. It is constructed with wood fibers bonded with resins and protective coatings, creating a strong, weather-resistant material. Specifically, LP® SmartSide® products incorporate zinc borate, waxes, and resin coatings to resist moisture, fungal decay, and pests. This means no warping, swelling, or rot—even in wet or humid climates. Plus, it’s unable to be infiltrated by termites and other pests.
Unlike traditional wood siding that requires regular scraping, painting, and sealing, composite siding needs only occasional cleaning with soap and water. This low-maintenance approach appeals to busy homeowners who want a polished exterior without the hassle.
Composite siding offers unmatched versatility in style, color, and texture. LP SmartSide’s range of products makes it easy to match any architectural style, from rustic farmhouse to modern minimalist. They offer sleek contemporary profiles, prefinished color options, and cedar-like textures. Composite siding from LP SmartSide effectively replicates authentic grain patterns and textures of real wood without the drawbacks.
Thanks to advanced engineering, composite siding holds up in even the toughest climates. It resists high winds, heavy rains, hail, and extreme temperature fluctuations without cracking or breaking. Whether you live in a hurricane zone or an area with harsh freeze-thaw cycles, LP SmartSide composite siding remains stable and protective.
Compared to fiber-cement’s heavy panels that require more labor, composite siding is lighter and available in longer lengths. This makes installation faster and more efficient, saving time and potentially reducing costs.
Many composite siding products use sustainable manufacturing practices, recycled materials, or renewable resources. They’re a greener choice for environmentally-conscious homeowners.
While composite siding falls in the mid-to-upper price range for materials, the labor savings compared to heavier materials like fiber cement can help offset some of that cost. Plus, it’s important to consider the long-term savings compared to less durable materials like vinyl. No matter the material you choose, keep in mind that installation costs will vary based on your home’s size and complexity.
Ultimately, composite siding’s superior durability and low maintenance reduce the need for frequent repairs or replacements, saving you money over time. Plus, manufacturers like LP® SmartSide® back their products with robust warranties—offering a 5/50-year limited warranty that covers materials and labor fully for five years, and materials on a prorated basis for 50 years after that. That kind of warranty offers real peace of mind.
Additionally, the 2024 Cost vs. Value Report indicates that homeowners recoup an average of 80% of the cost of new vinyl siding and 88% of the cost of fiber-cement siding in resale value. While composite doesn’t have a reported average yet, its performance and premium appeal suggest ROI likely aligns closely with (or exceeds) these figures.
Composite siding from LP SmartSide is hard to beat if you want the best siding to increase home value. Available at Zeeland Lumber & Supply, their siding features advanced engineered wood technology designed for exceptional durability. Their proprietary SmartGuard® manufacturing process protects each strand of wood for maximum resistance against:
This combination of strength and beauty makes LP SmartSide siding an excellent choice whether you live in a cold northern climate with freeze-thaw cycles, a hurricane-prone coastal region, or anywhere in between. It also stands up to the sun’s harsh rays, preventing issues like warping or paint chipping over time.
At Zeeland Lumber & Supply, we’re dedicated to helping you elevate your home’s curb appeal and increase its resale value with the highest quality products available—including industry-leading composite siding options like LP SmartSide. But siding is just the start. We’re your one-stop shop for all your exterior upgrades, home builds, and renovation projects.
Whether you’re looking for expert advice, product recommendations, or a custom quote, our team is here to help. Get in touch with us today to explore siding options and start planning your next home upgrade. Together, we’ll make sure your home looks beautiful, stands strong, and delivers outstanding value for years to come.
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