This guide presents the best siding options for Minnesota homes and businesses to help you make the right decision. Before knowing your options, you should first understand the Minnesota climate, as it directly impacts the siding on any building.
Understanding Minnesota’s Climate
Minnesota’s weather patterns are one of the factors you should consider when looking for the best siding options for your home or office. This is because the state experiences a continental climate with cold, snowy winters and warm, humid summers. Winters can be harsh, with temperatures often dropping below freezing, while summers can bring thunderstorms, hail, and even tornadoes. Plus, the high temperature in summer can greatly impact the siding you have installed. This extreme weather necessitates durable, protective siding to ensure your home remains safe and comfortable.
Factors to Consider When Choosing the Best Siding for Minnesota Homes
A. Energy Efficiency and Insulation Properties:
Considering the energy efficiency and insulation qualities of the siding you choose is essential before buying siding for your home. Energy-efficient siding and effective insulation can maintain the thermal equilibrium in your home or office, reducing the reliance on cooling and heating systems. This not only improves comfort but also helps you save on energy bills.
B. Durability and Resistance To Weather Elements:
For the harsh weather conditions in Minnesota, choosing durable and weather-resistant siding for your home is vital. The siding you select should be able to withstand extreme temperature changes, heavy snow loads, strong winds, and exposure to UV rays. Also, opt for materials that are resistant to fading, cracking, and warping. They ensure the longevity of the siding and minimize the need for frequent repairs or replacements.
C. Maintenance Requirements and Lifespan:
Some materials, such as paint or sealant, may require regular repairs to preserve their appearance and performance. Others, like vinyl or fiber cement, are relatively low maintenance and may only require occasional cleaning. Additionally, assessing the lifespan of the siding is crucial, as it can help you make a cost-effective choice. Long-lasting materials can provide extended protection and reduce the need for frequent replacements.
Now that you know what things you should consider before purchasing siding for your home, check out the seven best vinyl siding options available on the market.
1. Vinyl Siding
Vinyl siding is popular due to its affordability and relatively low maintenance requirements. It is available in a vast array of colors and styles, allowing homeowners to customize their home’s appearance. However, vinyl siding may not be the best option for Minnesota’s climate, as it can crack or warp in extremely cold temperatures. Moreover, its manufacturing and disposal processes are not environmentally friendly.
| Pros | Cons |
|---|---|
| Affordable | Not as durable as other options |
| Low maintenance | Can become damaged in extreme temperatures |
| Wide variety of colors and styles | Not climate conscious |
Cost of Installation
The cost to install vinyl siding in Minnesota depends on the styles of siding, such as board and batten, the labor cost, and the material quality. On average, the vinyl siding costs between $4 to $8 per square foot, not factoring in the cost of labor.
2. Metal Siding
For homes in Minnesota, metal siding is a durable and versatile exterior cladding option offering many benefits. Its sleek appearance and large selection of colors make it a popular choice for modern architectural designs. Because it’s made of stronger materials like aluminum and steel, metal siding offers great protection and timeless aesthetic appeal to your home and office.
| Pros | Cons |
|---|---|
| Long-lasting and resistant to rot, pests, and weathering | Initial installation costs can be higher than other siding materials |
| Low maintenance and easy to clean | Susceptible to dents and scratches |
| Provides excellent fire protection |
Cost of Installation
The cost of installing metal siding ranges from $7 to $13 per square foot, not factoring in the cost of labor. However, it’s important to note that this is a general estimate, and prices can vary significantly depending on the specialization of the installer and the type of metal you choose.
3. LP® SmartSide®
LP SmartSide siding is an engineered hardwood siding known for its durability and comes with a 50-year warranty. This siding option can be repainted, allowing homeowners to match their desired aesthetic. However, LP siding is more expensive than vinyl siding and requires regular maintenance to keep its longevity and appearance.
| Pros | Cons |
|---|---|
| Highly durable | More expensive than other options |
| Can be repainted | Requires routine maintenance |
| Engineered hardwood with a 50-year warranty |
Cost of Installation
Like other siding options, the cost to install LP SmartSide depends on factors such as the size of your home, the complexity of the installation, the specific LP siding product chosen, and local market conditions. It typically ranges from $6 to $12, excluding the cost of labor.
Also read: Revolutionizing Your Home’s Look With Lp Smartside Siding
4. Hardie Board (Fiber Cement) Siding
Hardie board, also known as fiber cement siding, is an excellent choice for Minnesota homes due to its longevity and fire resistance. This siding was developed by James Hardie, has a 30-year warranty, and can be painted or stained to achieve a customized appearance. However, Hardie board is more expensive than both vinyl and LP siding, and its installation requires specific tools and professional expertise.
| Pros | Cons |
|---|---|
| Extremely durable and has a 30-year warranty | More expensive than vinyl and LP siding |
| Fire-resistant | Installation requires specialized tools and roofing experts |
| Option to paint or stain |
Cost of Installation
Hardie board siding is generally considered a premium siding option and is more expensive than other materials. On average, the cost of Hardie board siding installation in Minnesota ranges from $8 to $12 per square foot, excluding the cost of labor. The installation cost can also vary based on your location and the factors mentioned above.
5. Everlast® Composite Siding
Everlast Composite Siding is an exceptional manufacturing choice for homeowners, as the company’s products are incredibly long-lasting and are resistant to moisture, pests, and weather events. Its siding option comes with an ownership warranty, ensuring your investment is protected. However, Everlast Composite Siding only offers a limited choice of color options and is pricier than vinyl siding.
| Pros | Cons |
|---|---|
| Highly durable | Few color options are available |
| Ownership warranty provided | More expensive than vinyl siding |
| Resistant to mold, infestations, and severe weather |
Cost of Installation
On average, the cost of installing siding by Everlast Composite Siding ranges from $8 to $12 per square foot, not including the cost of labor. To obtain a more accurate estimate, we recommend you reach out to local contractors in your area who are experienced in installing composite siding. By accessing your needs, preferences, and location, they will be able to quote the right estimate for your home or office.
6. Natural Wood Siding
Natural wood siding offers a timeless and beautiful aesthetic that many homeowners find appealing. This eco-friendly siding option can be painted or stained to achieve a customized appearance. However, natural wood siding is expensive and requires regular maintenance to prevent pests and weather damage.
| Pros | Cons |
|---|---|
| Beautiful aesthetic | Higher cost |
| Can be painted or stained | Regular maintenance needed |
| Eco-friendly | Susceptible to infestations and bad weather conditions |
Cost of Installation
Natural wood siding offers a range of options, such as cedar, redwood, pine, and cypress, each with its own characteristics and price points, which will influence the overall cost. On average, the cost of installing natural wood siding can range from $8 to $15 per square foot and can vary depending on the wood you choose.
7. Manufactured Wood Siding (Ply Gem® Mastic™)
Manufactured wood siding, such as Ply Gem Mastic, is an affordable alternative to natural wood siding. This material looks like real wood and is available in a wide variety of colors and styles. However, manufactured wood siding is not as durable as natural wood and is susceptible to moisture damage.
| Pros | Cons |
|---|---|
| Looks like real wood at a fraction of the cost | May have issues with moisture damage |
| Low maintenance | Not as strong as natural wood |
| Many colors and styles |
Cost of Installation
On average, the cost of installing Ply Gem Mastic siding ranges from $5 to $10 per square foot. Collecting multiple quotes from reputable contractors will allow you to compare prices, evaluate the services offered, and make an informed decision about installing Ply Gem Mastic siding for your home.
Also read: Ply Gem Vinyl Siding
We Are Here To Help You Install or Replace The Siding On Your Home
Do you want to give your home or business a timeless aesthetic appeal and ultimate protection with the best siding? Don’t let unprofessional or unskilled contractors work on your home, instead, contact Clear Clut Xteriors. We can help you install the most durable and long-lasting siding. As a team of skilled and experienced siding installers, we understand all the ins and outs of siding installation. We can also help you choose the right siding option for your home. Call Clear Cut Xteriors at (651) 340-3410 and speak to one of our professionals about your siding project.
