The right siding for your home can vary depending on where you live. People in cold climates
need siding that can withstand harsh winter storms and freezing temperatures. If you live in a
cold area and want to upgrade your siding, check out our list of the best siding for cold climates
to help you find the perfect material for your home.
Why Is Choosing the Right Siding for Cold Climates Important?
The right siding for cold climates impacts your home’s comfort and durability during the winter.
Choosing a material that can withstand cold temperatures ensures your home stays cozy and
resilient to winter storms.
Siding Problems in Cold Climates
If you live in a cold area and don’t have siding that can withstand freezing temperatures, you
may experience some problems. These include cracking, warping, and structural damage
caused by snow and ice buildup.
Best Siding Materials for Wet and Cold Climates
Below, you’ll find our list of the best siding for cold climates and the pros and cons of each.
Fiber Cement
Fiber cement comes from a mix of cement, sand, cellulose fibers, and water. These ingredients
create a durable siding material that can withstand many weather conditions.
Pros
● Very durable
● Resistant to mold and termites
● Can last for 30 to 50 years or more
Cons
● Higher installation cost
● Few color options
Cost
Fiber cement can range in cost from $5 and $14 per square foot.
Composite Wood
Composite wood siding is made from a combination of wood, fiberglass, plastic, and other
synthetic materials. It has a wood appearance but is more durable and resistant to moisture.
Pros
● Low maintenance
● Easy to install
● It comes in various colors and styles
Cons
● Susceptible to impact damage like hail
● The seams between the panels may be noticeable
Cost
Composite wood is one of the best siding options for cold climates if you’re on a budget. It has
an average cost of $2.5 to $7.5 per square foot.
Vinyl
Vinyl may be the best siding for wet climates because of its moisture resistance. It comes from
polyvinyl chloride (PVC), which is non-porous and prevents water absorption. PVC protects the
siding from rot, swelling, and other moisture-related issues.
Pros
● Many color options
● Requires minimal effort to keep it looking new
● Designed to withstand harsh weather conditions
Cons
● Color may fade over time
● If damage occurs, there are limited repair options
Cost
Vinyl siding costs between $4 to $12 per square foot.
Brick or Stone
Brick and stone are the best siding for cold climates if you want a natural option. They’re very
durable and insulating, which provides a barrier against harsh winter weather.
Pros
● Durable and can last for decades
● Adds a timeless aesthetic to homes
● Offers excellent insulation
Cons
● High upfront cost
● The motor joints between bricks or stones may require maintenance over time
Cost
Brick costs around $14 to $30 per square foot, while stone costs $35 to $50 per square foot.
Metal Siding
Metal siding comes from durable and versatile materials like aluminum and steel. It’s known for
resisting cold and wet weather and offers reliable protection against rain, wind, and snow.
Pros
● Resistant to pests and termites
● Won’t warp or rot like many wood siding options
● Lightweight and easier to handle during installation
Cons
● It may be noisy during heavy rainfall
● Susceptible to dents and scratches
Cost
Metal siding costs depend on whether your panels are steel or aluminum. Aluminum siding
costs around $9 to $17 per square foot. Steel siding has an average cost of $7 to $16 per
square foot.
Manufactured Siding
Manufactured siding is made from a blend of several materials, such as cement, sand, and
synthetic materials. It’s designed to look like natural materials like stone or brick. In many cases,
manufactured siding isn’t as durable as these natural options, but they offer exceptional strength
at a lower price point.
Pros
● Lightweight and easy to install
● A budget-friendly option to brick and stone
● Durable and resistant to decay
Cons
● Limited lifespan
● It may lower home resale value
Cost
Manufactured siding can cost between $7 to $22, depending on the type of materials you use.
Siding to Avoid in Wet and Cold Climates
Now that we’ve discussed the best siding for cold climates, it’s worth mentioning the siding to
avoid if you live in a cold area.
Wood
Wood siding is a natural siding option that can come from several types of wood. Because it’s
porous, moisture can easily seep into the wood, then freeze and expand in cold temperatures.
This can damage the siding and turn into rot in warmer weather.
Pros
● Affordable
● It offers a classic aesthetic
Cons
● Prone to damage caused by moisture
● Requires regular maintenance
● May crack or split over time
Cost
Wood siding has an average cost of $3 to $10 per square foot.
How to Choose Between Siding Options
Consider these factors to help you choose a siding for your home.
● Cost. Calculate the upfront cost and long-term expenses, like maintenance, and make
sure it fits your budget.
● Durability. Look for a material that can withstand your climate and offer long-lasting
protection.
● Aesthetics. Decide what look you want for your home and find a material that matches
your preferences.
● Weather. Choose a siding material that can withstand the weather conditions in your
area.
● Maintenance. Evaluate the maintenance requirements for each siding material, and
consider how much effort you want to put into maintaining its appearance and condition.
Best Siding for Utah Homes
Utah has a unique climate that requires siding materials that can handle cold temperatures and
occasional wet weather. The best siding for the cold climate in Utah is vinyl, composite wood, and fiber cement.
Different Grades of Siding Provided by M&M Gutters & Exteriors
At M&M Gutters & Exteriors, we offer a variety of high-quality siding options, including these
grades:
● Prodigy
● Charter Oak
● Odyssey
● Conquest
● Board & Batten
● Ovation
● Carved wood
● Quest
● Board+Batten Designer Series
Our Related Blogs
Check out these blog posts to learn more about siding options, roof melting systems, and roof
damage.
Quote Your Next Project Today!
Ready to upgrade your home’s siding? We can help! Contact M&M Gutters today for a free
quote and expert advice on choosing the best building materials for cold climates.