On top of its durability and aesthetics, buildings with brick masonry can be better at cooling down during hot weather than framed and sided houses. Although brick siding will last the life of the building with very little maintenance, masonry eventually does deteriorate, generally at the mortar joints.

Today’s vinyl siding is weather- and insect-proof, fade-resistant, and virtually indestructible under normal circumstances. It also remains one of the cheapest materials to install, and comes in a range of colors and designs, even wood grain patterns. Vinyl siding does require some maintenance, however, because mold and grime can accumulate.

Made from a mixture of Portland cement, lightweight aggregate and iron-oxide pigments, manufactured stone veneer products have become a popular siding option. While the look is a dead ringer and the cost of installation is considerably less than natural stone, the product does not offer the same durability as the real deal.

Fiber-cement siding—typically made from Portland cement, sand, and cellulose fibers—is impervious to wood-boring insects, rot, deterioration from salt and ultraviolet rays. It also carries a 1A fire rating and is available in a full range of wood-like lap and shingle styles and colors. After about 15 years, refinishing becomes necessary, but maintenance duties are otherwise light.