Your siding will set the aesthetic for your home and have the biggest and most direct impact on your curb appeal. For these reasons, you’ll likely want to make this choice based on several factors rather than what’s trending, since siding is meant to last anywhere between 10–50 years depending on the type you choose. Here are some points to factor into your selection:

Repair Potential: When selecting your siding, keep in mind what it will take to repair a section if necessary. Does the way it’s installed make for an easy swap out of a section or two or will an entire replacement be necessary?

Energy Efficiency: How good an insulator or not is the type you like? Even if a style looks good, if it doesn’t at least contribute to your home’s temperature control, you may spend a lot of money heating and cooling your house. It’s a good idea to research your siding’s R-value and whether it uses an insulating underlayment.

Maintenance: This will be a huge determining factor. Many homeowners love the look of wood siding, but don’t have the time to upkeep it. It’s best to have a thorough understanding of the upkeep requirements before choosing.

Resale Value: Aside from good looks, some siding, especially if it’s particularly energy efficient, made to last 40–50 years, or is long-lasting and low maintenance, can impact resale value in a positive way.