When it comes to choosing siding for your home, the natural beauty of wood is undeniably appealing. It has a timeless charm and adds warmth to any home exterior. But with modern materials like engineered wood now available, homeowners face a tough decision: Should you go with traditional wood or opt for engineered wood siding? Each option has its pros and cons, and understanding them will help you make the right choice for your home. Let’s break down the key differences to help you make an informed decision.
Composition and Manufacturing
One of the biggest differences between engineered wood and traditional wood siding lies in how they are made.
Engineered wood siding is made from wood fibres and resins, which are pressed together to form a strong, durable material. This manufacturing process gives engineered wood enhanced durability. The combination of materials is specifically designed to resist common issues like warping and splitting. During the manufacturing process, engineered wood is often treated with protective coatings to increase its resistance to moisture, insects, and other elements that can damage traditional wood. Essentially, engineered wood takes the best parts of natural wood and enhances them with modern technology.
Traditional wood siding, on the other hand, is made from solid wood planks, typically from species like cedar, pine, or redwood. While the natural look of traditional wood is hard to beat, it comes with certain drawbacks. Since it’s a solid, natural material, wood is more vulnerable to moisture absorption. This can cause it to warp, crack, or decay over time. Unlike engineered wood, traditional wood is not enhanced with additional treatments during manufacturing, which makes it more susceptible to damage unless properly maintained.
Durability and Strength
Durability is a major factor when choosing siding, especially since it needs to withstand the elements for years to come.
Engineered wood siding is designed for strength and durability. Its construction makes it highly resistant to moisture, pests, and temperature changes. Unlike traditional wood, it’s less likely to warp, crack, or rot over time, making it a great choice for areas with extreme weather conditions. Additionally, engineered wood is often treated with special coatings that protect it from insects and fungal growth, which means it can last longer without needing extensive maintenance.
Traditional wood siding, while beautiful, is more prone to issues like moisture absorption, rot, and insect damage. Wood is a natural material that expands and contracts with changes in temperature and humidity. This can lead to warping or cracking if it’s not regularly maintained. Insects like termites can also pose a threat to traditional wood siding, especially if it’s not treated with insect-resistant coatings. Without proper upkeep, traditional wood can lose its structural integrity more quickly than engineered wood, requiring repairs or replacement sooner.
Maintenance Requirements
The amount of maintenance you’re willing to commit to is another important factor to consider when choosing siding.
Engineered wood siding requires significantly less maintenance than traditional wood. Since it’s treated with protective coatings, it’s resistant to moisture and pests. This means you won’t need to constantly seal, stain, or paint it to keep it in good condition. Many engineered wood products come pre-primed or pre-painted, so they’re ready to go once installed, cutting down on the time and effort you’ll need to invest in future upkeep. Overall, engineered wood offers a hassle-free siding option for homeowners who want durability without constant maintenance.
In contrast, traditional wood siding demands regular upkeep to maintain its beauty and protect it from the elements. Without regular staining, sealing, or painting, wood can quickly deteriorate, especially in areas with high humidity or extreme weather conditions. Homeowners need to commit to reapplying protective finishes every few years to prevent moisture from seeping in and causing damage. While this upkeep helps preserve the natural beauty of wood, it can be time-consuming and costly over the long term.
Aesthetic Appeal
Both engineered and traditional wood have their own unique aesthetic benefits, and your decision may come down to personal preference.
Engineered wood siding is designed to mimic the look of traditional wood, and in many cases, it’s hard to tell the difference at first glance. Modern engineered wood is available in a wide range of styles, textures, and colours, allowing you to achieve the exact look you want for your home. Whether you prefer the appearance of cedar shake, rustic planks, or a more modern, smooth finish, engineered wood can replicate the natural beauty of wood while offering the enhanced durability of a manufactured product.
That said, traditional wood siding offers a level of authenticity that’s hard to replicate. The natural grain, texture, and variations in colour give traditional wood an unmatched aesthetic appeal. For homeowners who love the character and warmth that comes from natural materials, traditional wood is often the preferred choice. It’s the subtle imperfections and natural beauty of wood that make it so desirable, especially for older or more rustic homes.
Environmental Impact
If sustainability is a concern, it’s important to consider how each type of siding affects the environment.
Engineered wood is often made using sustainable practices, with manufacturers using wood by-products that would otherwise go to waste. This reduces the need to harvest large amounts of timber, making engineered wood a more environmentally friendly option. Additionally, the manufacturing process for engineered wood uses fewer natural resources overall. The product itself is designed to last longer, reducing the frequency of replacements and conserving materials.
Traditional wood siding, while biodegradable and renewable, requires cutting down trees, which can contribute to deforestation if not sourced sustainably. However, when wood is harvested from responsibly managed forests, it can be a renewable resource. The key is to ensure that the wood siding you choose comes from certified, sustainable sources, such as those approved by organizations like the Forest Stewardship Council (FSC). While wood is a natural and renewable material, its environmental impact can vary depending on how it’s sourced and maintained.
Cost Considerations
Cost is always a factor when choosing siding, so it’s important to understand how the price of engineered wood compares to traditional wood over time.
Engineered wood siding is generally more affordable upfront than high-quality traditional wood siding, such as cedar or redwood. In addition to the lower initial cost, engineered wood’s durability and lower maintenance requirements make it a cost-effective option in the long run. You won’t need to spend as much on repairs, repainting, or re-staining, which can save you money over time.
Traditional wood siding, particularly when using premium materials like cedar, can be more expensive both upfront and in terms of long-term maintenance. While the authentic beauty of traditional wood is often worth the investment for many homeowners, it’s important to factor in the ongoing costs of upkeep. Regular maintenance is essential to protect traditional wood siding from moisture, pests, and other damage. Neglecting this can lead to costly repairs or replacements sooner than expected.
Installation Process
Another factor to consider is how easy each type of siding is to install, as this can affect both the cost and timeline of your project.
Engineered wood siding is typically easier to install because it’s lighter and more uniform than traditional wood. It can be cut, handled, and fastened with standard tools, which reduces labour costs and shortens installation time. This makes engineered wood an attractive option for homeowners who want a faster, more straightforward installation process.
Traditional wood siding, on the other hand, is heavier and more delicate to work with. The natural planks require more care during installation, as they are prone to splitting or cracking if not handled properly. This can increase the labour costs and time required to complete the installation. While traditional wood offers unmatched beauty, the installation process can be more challenging and expensive than with engineered wood.
Choosing Between Engineered Wood and Traditional Wood: Which Siding is Right for You?
When deciding between engineered wood siding and traditional wood, it’s important to weigh the pros and cons of each. Engineered wood excels in terms of durability, lower maintenance, and affordability, making it a great option for homeowners who want a long-lasting, cost-effective siding solution. Traditional wood, on the other hand, offers a natural aesthetic that’s hard to replicate. However, it requires more upkeep and comes at a higher cost.
Ultimately, your choice should depend on your priorities. If you’re looking for something that mimics the look of wood without the hassle, engineered wood may be the best option. However, if you love the character and beauty of natural wood and are willing to commit to the maintenance, traditional wood siding might be the right choice for your home.
