Replacing your home’s siding is one of the few upgrades that can improve energy efficiency, boost curb appeal, and increase resale value all at once. The wide variety of aesthetic, quality, and price options can make the choice feel overwhelming, so we’ve created this helpful guide to help.
Inside, you will find the popular siding options we install and a comparison of the five key factors to choosing the right one for you. These include:
- Cost
- Curb Appeal
- Maintenance
- Pros
- Cons
By the end, you’ll have a clearer idea of which siding makes the most sense for your Central Kentucky home.
Vinyl Siding
Cost: Lower
Maintenance: Medium
Curb Appeal: Flexible styles and colors
Vinyl siding remains one of the most common choices for homeowners because it is versatile and typically more affordable than other types. It can be installed horizontally or vertically and is available in a wide range of colors. Vinyl can be painted, though painted vinyl will require more upkeep over time.
Pros
- Most budget-friendly siding option
- Lightweight and can be installed over existing materials like brick or stucco
- Wide range of styles and colors available for any look
Cons
- Can dent from hail or impact
- Expands and contracts with temperature swings, which can cause warping or gaps over time
- Individual panels may need replacement over time
Recommended Manufacturers: Alside, Norandex
Insulated Vinyl Siding
Cost: Medium
Maintenance: Low
Curb Appeal: More substantial look than standard vinyl
Insulated vinyl siding looks similar to traditional vinyl but includes built-in insulation bonded to each panel. This adds rigidity, improves energy efficiency, and gives the siding a luxury appearance.
Pros
- Improved insulation and energy performance
- More impact-resistant than standard vinyl
- Added insulation helps reduce exterior noise
- Treated to resist insects
Cons
- Requires skilled installation to ensure proper sealing
- High-moisture areas should be monitored to prevent mold
Recommended Manufacturers: Alside
Fiber Cement Siding (James Hardie)
Cost: Higher
Maintenance: Very low
Curb Appeal: High-end, wood-like appearance
Fiber cement siding is one of the most durable and realistic siding options available. It mimics real wood while outperforming it in most categories, especially in Kentucky’s fluctuating weather conditions.
For Fiber Cement we exclusively install James Hardie products because of their proven quality, manufacturing standards, and long-term performance.
*Image credit to James Hardie
Pros
- Extremely durable (40–50 year lifespan)
- Resistant to rot, water damage, termites, and woodpeckers
- Color technology resists fading, cracking, and chipping
- Minimal ongoing maintenance
Cons
- Higher upfront investment
- Not intended for short-term or budget repairs
Recommended Manufacturer: James Hardie
Cellular Composite Siding
Cost: High
Maintenance: Extremely low (lowest of all options)
Curb Appeal: Premium, wood-like aesthetics
Cellular composite siding is a newer innovation designed for homeowners who want maximum performance with low upkeep. It delivers the look of real wood without painting, caulking, or rot concerns.
Pros
- Highest energy efficiency (best R-value among siding options)
- Resistant to mold, mildew, insects, and moisture
- Interlocking joints improve durability and weather resistance
- Long warranties with some finishes covered for 25 years
- No repainting required
Cons
- Premium pricing
- Best suited for long-term homeowners, not quick fixes
Recommended Manufacturer: Alside
How to Choose the Right Siding for Your Home
The “best” siding depends on how long you plan to stay in your home, your budget, and how much maintenance you want to handle over time. In Central Kentucky, durability and proper installation matter just as much as material choice.
No matter which option you choose, working with an experienced siding contractor makes all the difference. Proper installation protects your home and your investment.
Siding replacement also delivers a strong return on investment. This is often around 70% or more when selling your home, with premium options performing even better over time.
If you’re ready to explore siding options for your Central Kentucky home, connect with AIC Roofing & Construction to schedule a siding consultation. We’ll help you weigh your options, understand the trade-offs, and choose a solution that fits your home and your future.
Siding FAQs for Central Kentucky Homeowners
What is the best siding for homes in Central Kentucky?
The best siding for Central Kentucky depends on your goals. Homes here face hot summers, cold winters, humidity, hail, and temperature swings, so durability matters. Fiber cement and cellular composite perform best long-term, while vinyl remains a solid, budget-friendly option.
Which siding option lasts the longest?
Fiber cement and cellular composite siding typically last 40–50 years or more when properly installed. Vinyl siding has a shorter lifespan but can still perform well with proper maintenance.
What siding requires the least maintenance?
Cellular composite siding requires the least maintenance overall. It does not need repainting or re-caulking and resists mold, mildew, insects, and moisture.
Is insulated vinyl siding worth it?
Yes, especially in Central Kentucky. Insulated vinyl improves energy efficiency, reduces outside noise, and is more impact-resistant than standard vinyl, making it a strong mid-range option.
Can siding really improve energy efficiency?
Absolutely. Insulated vinyl and cellular composite siding both increase your home’s thermal performance. Cellular composite offers the highest R-value, meaning better temperature control and lower energy bills.
What siding holds up best against hail and storms?
Fiber cement and insulated vinyl perform better against hail and impact than standard vinyl. Cellular composite is also highly impact-resistant and weather-stable.
Can siding be installed over existing materials?
In some cases, yes, especially with vinyl siding. However, best practice depends on your current exterior condition. A professional inspection ensures moisture issues or damage aren’t trapped underneath.
Why does siding installation quality matter so much?
Even the best siding will fail if installed incorrectly. Proper flashing, sealing, and spacing are essential, especially in Kentucky’s expanding-and-contracting climate. That’s why working with an experienced contractor like AIC Roofing & Construction is critical.