Chicago weather is tough on walls. Snow, wind, and wide temperature swings test seams, fasteners, and paint. Before you choose, compare how house siding materials handle movement, water, and sun over time. The goal is straight lines, dry walls, and color that lasts without heavy upkeep.
Below we show options, costs, and care. We cover lifespan, wind and fire ratings, warranties, and repaint timing with notes for freeze and thaw. Use it to match style, budget, and key details like flashing and rain screens.
Why Chicago’s Climate Changes the Answer
Freeze and thaw cycles move boards and trim. Wind and hail punish corners. UV cooks paint and caulk. Ice dams push water where it should not go. Good jobs plan for all of this with smart seams, strong fasteners, and proven paint systems.
Pro Tip: Ask how each system handles seams, flashing, and paint cycles. Good details beat raw thickness.
Need expert help with siding design or costs? Contact All Star Products for a free consultation.
All Star’s Choice for Chicago Homes
Why Hardie: Fiber cement stays stable in heat and cold, resists fire and pests, and holds finishes well.
Profiles and trim: Lap, panel, board and batten, soffit, and ColorPlus finishes.
See results: Ask us for before and after photos from local jobs.
12 Siding Types Explained
1) Vinyl Siding
Pros: Low cost, many colors. Cons: Seams show, can crack.
Chicago Fit Score: Medium. Maintenance: Low. Best for budget updates.
2) Insulated Vinyl Siding
Pros: Higher R value, less noise. Cons: Needs careful fastening to avoid waves.
Chicago Fit Score: Medium High. Maintenance: Low. Best for comfort boosts.
3) LP SmartSide
Pros: Wood look, strong impact. Cons: Seal cuts and edges, steady paint plan.
Chicago Fit Score: High. Maintenance: Medium. Best for classic style.
4) Hardie Board
Pros: Fire rating, moisture control, stable color. Cons: Heavier boards need pro tools.
Chicago Fit Score: Very High. Maintenance: Low. Best for long-term value.
5) Everlast Composite
Pros: Solid core, fade stable. Cons: Fewer trim systems.
Chicago Fit Score: High. Maintenance: Low. Best for simple upkeep.
6) Natural Wood
Pros: Warm, real grain. Cons: Rot risk without strict care.
Chicago Fit Score: Medium. Maintenance: High. Best for true wood lovers.
7) Wood Composite
Pros: Lower cost wood look. Cons: Needs tight moisture control.
Chicago Fit Score: Medium. Maintenance: Medium High. Best for limited budgets.
8) Metal Siding
Pros: Wind and hail friendly, recyclable. Cons: Can dent and chalk over time.
Chicago Fit Score: High. Maintenance: Low. Best for modern designs.
9) Fiber Cement
Pros: Fire and pest-resistant, many profiles. Cons: Pro install required.
Chicago Fit Score: Very High. Maintenance: Low. Best for most homes.
10) Brick Veneer
Pros: Long life, classic look. Cons: Higher cost and weight.
Chicago Fit Score: High. Maintenance: Low. Best for premium builds.
11) Stone Veneer
Pros: Strong curb appeal. Cons: Needs careful anchoring and weeps.
Chicago Fit Score: High. Maintenance: Low. Best for accent walls.
12) Stucco
Pros: Clean finish. Cons: Needs crack control and drainage.
Chicago Fit Score: Medium. Maintenance: Medium. Best for select designs.
Key Takeaway: When you compare house siding materials, judge the wall as a system. cladding, WRB, flashings, and vents all work together.
Moisture Management That Most Lists Skip
We use a weather barrier, head flashings, kick-out flashings, and ventilated rain screens where needed. Caulk only joints fail. Layered systems work and keep repairs low.
Insulation, Energy, and Noise
Insulated vinyl helps comfort and sound. Fiber cement pairs well with continuous exterior foam for better energy scores on busy streets.
Color and Curb Appeal That Lasts
Dark colors need stable boards and good paint. Hardie ColorPlus® resists fading better than field paint. Trim, soffit, and fascia frame the look.
Lifetime Costs, Not Just the Bid
Think in 10 and 20-year cycles. Add materials, labor, paint, repairs, and resale value. Many clients find fiber cement the cheapest per year.
Next Steps
Our team helps you compare house siding materials side by side and pick finishes that last. Schedule a free estimate with All Star Products. Ask about financing and current promos. Get a clear plan built for Chicago weather and your budget.
