Top 7 Cheapest Siding Options for Your Home

Why Cheap Siding Matters

Balance Cost and Value
You want your home to look great—but you shouldn’t have to overspend on siding material to get there. Whether you’re renovating a starter home or revamping an older property, cheap siding options let you:

• Protect your exterior from weather and pests

• Boost curb appeal without a major financial burden

• Save on maintenance with easy-to-clean, long-lasting side materials

Think Long-Term
While “cheap” focuses on the upfront price, consider how maintenance, lifespan, and repair costs add up over time. Vinyl siding, for instance, might cost a bit more than a low-grade wood side, but can save you money on repainting and pest treatments. The key is finding the best balance between immediate budget and long-term value.

Factors That Affect Siding Cost

Material vs. Labor
It’s easy to focus on the per-square-foot price of the side material itself, but installation can be just as significant. Vinyl side panels, for example, are typically simpler to install than fiber cement side products, meaning labor costs could be lower if you hire a pro—or easier if you tackle a small area yourself.

Regional & Climate Considerations
If you live in an area prone to wildfires, choosing fire-resistant siding like fiber cement can be a smart, cheap side decision. In humid climates, a resistant side material can help you avoid rot or mold. Always factor in your local weather before finalizing a siding choice.

Maintenance & Upkeep
Some types of side options—such as board and batten wood siding—require frequent sealing or paint touch-ups. Meanwhile, vinyl side products or fiber cement side options tend to be more low maintenance. Paying a bit more for a durable material often means fewer headaches (and costs) down the road.

Energy Efficiency
Well-insulated siding can reduce energy bills, so your upfront costs might be offset by lower heating and cooling expenses. If insulation matters in your area, look for siding products with a higher R-value (a measure of insulation) that help preserve your home’s exterior side.

Top 7 Cheap Siding Options

Below, you’ll find some of the most budget-friendly siding choices. Each one has unique benefits and drawbacks—review them to decide which best suits your home’s needs.

Vinyl Siding

Vinyl is one of the most popular cheap siding options for a reason: it’s affordable, low maintenance, and widely available.

Pros

• Cost-Effective: Vinyl often offers the lowest per-square-foot price.

• Easy to Clean: A quick rinse with a garden hose removes most dirt and grime.

• Weather-Resistant: It won’t rot or warp in moisture-heavy environments.

Cons

• Susceptible to Dents and Cracks: Severe hail or impact can damage the panels.

• Less Fire-Resistant: Not recommended for areas with high wildfire risk.

Engineered Wood Siding & Composite Wood Siding

Wood siding or engineered wood siding combines real wood fibers with bonding materials to create a product that looks like real wood but usually costs less.

Pros

• Natural Look: Get a rustic, wood-like appearance without paying a premium.

• Resistant to Pests and Rot (more so than raw wood).

• Moderate Maintenance: Usually needs repainting every 5–10 years, not every 2–3.

Cons

• Less Durable than fiber cement or vinyl.

• May still require paint or sealant to maximize lifespan.

Fiber Cement Siding

Fiber cement siding is a type of siding that blends cement, sand, and cellulose fibers. Although its initial cost can be higher than vinyl, it remains a solid budget friendly pick when you consider its durability.

Pros

• Highly Durable & Fire-Resistant

• Low Maintenance: Rarely warps, rots, or succumbs to pests.

• Excellent Curb Appeal: Many brands offer realistic wood grain textures.

Cons

• Heavier Material: Installation is more complex, often requiring professionals.

• Costs a bit more upfront compared to vinyl.

Pro Tip: Engineered wood can still be susceptible to moisture damage if the paint or sealant wears off. Keep an eye on exposed edges to avoid damage.

Aluminum Siding

Aluminum siding has been around for decades and is another tried-and-true low cost siding material option, especially if you find a good local deal.

Pros

• Fire-Resistant and does not rust.

• Requires minimal upkeep other than the occasional washing.

Cons

• Easily Dented by hail, rocks, or even a rogue baseball.

• Older finishes can become chalky, possibly needing repainting to maintain appearance.

Steel & Other Metal Siding

While steel siding sometimes comes with a higher price tag, it’s incredibly tough and may pay for itself if you want something that lasts.

Pros

• Excellent Durability against extreme weather, pests, and fire.

• Low long-term costs since it rarely needs major repairs.

Cons

• Heavier and more challenging to install.

• Typically has a bigger initial outlay than vinyl or aluminum.

Board and Batten & Other Wood Variations

If you’re after a rustic or farmhouse exterior, board and batten or cedar siding can be surprisingly affordable under the right conditions.

Pros

• Classic, Natural Look: Perfect for country or craftsman-style homes.

• Can be sourced locally, sometimes reducing low cost shipping fees.

Cons

• Maintenance-Heavy: You’ll likely need to paint or seal every few years.

• Wood is more prone to damage from insects or rot if not well maintained.

Stucco, Brick, and Alternatives

Stucco and brick veneers aren’t always “cheap,” but in some regions they can be cost-competitive and energy-efficient.

Stucco

• Pros: Fire-resistant, good insulation, appealing texture.

• Cons: Higher labor costs; cracks can appear if installed incorrectly.

Brick Veneer

• Pros: Classic, upscale look with great durability.

• Cons: Material costs can be higher, not always “budget friendly.”