The Best Siding for
Michigan Homes
Why James Hardie Tops the List
Beyond a siding that looks good, it has to survive blazing summers, heavy snow, freezing temperatures, and constant freeze-thaw cycles. There are so many siding options on the market. How do you know which material will hold up best?
We have installed many different products through the years at Allied Siding and Roofing. Our business model has been built around a custom approach. It has given us a unique insight into the world of exterior cladding products.
What Michigan’s Climate Demands from Siding
Michigan homes see everything: lake-effect snow, ice storms, spring rains, hot sun, and strong winds. Siding here needs to:
Resist moisture and prevent rot or mold growth.
Survive freeze-thaw cycles without cracking.
Handle UV rays and color fading. While there is no perfect solution for this, there are products that fare better than others.
Resist impact from hail, branches, or debris.
Minimize maintenance costs over 30 years.
Not every material checks all these boxes.
Comparing Popular Siding Options in Michigan
Material | Pros | Cons | How It Performs in Michigan |
---|---|---|---|
James Hardie (Fiber Cement) | Long lifespan, fire-resistant, rot & insect proof, holds paint well, excellent warranty | Higher installation cost, heavy material requires skilled crew | Excellent — designed to handle moisture and freeze-thaw cycles |
Vinyl Siding (Mid/High Grade) | Low cost, light weight, easy install | Can warp in heat, crack in extreme cold, fades over time | Fair — budget-friendly but less durable in harsh winters |
Engineered Wood (LP SmartSide, etc.) | Attractive wood look, lower cost than fiber cement | Can swell or fail if moisture protection isn’t perfect | Good if installed with care, but higher maintenance risk |
Brick or Stone Veneer | Extremely durable, low maintenance, strong curb appeal | High upfront cost, heavy installation | Excellent — often used as accents for long-lasting beauty |
Metal (Steel/Aluminum Panels) | Very durable, fireproof, insect-resistant | Can dent, noisy in rain, higher cost | Solid option, especially on modern or rustic designs |
Wood (Cedar, etc.) | Natural beauty, easy to repair | High maintenance, prone to rot/insects | Not ideal unless you’re committed to regular sealing/painting |
James Hardie (Fiber Cement)
Vinyl Siding (Mid/High Grade)
Engineered Wood (LP SmartSide, etc.)
Brick or Stone Veneer
Metal (Steel/Aluminum Panels)
Wood (Cedar, etc.)
Why James Hardie Stands Out in Michigan
1. Built for Freeze-Thaw Cycles - Hardie siding won’t rot, crack, or warp when exposed to water and freezing temperatures. That makes it ideal for Michigan’s wet, cold winters.
2. Low Maintenance - Unlike wood, Hardie doesn’t need constant sealing or repainting. Factory-finished ColorPlus® Technology resists fading and lasts much longer than field paint.
3. Resale Value - Buyers recognize the name James Hardie. It’s one of the few siding products that can actually raise your home’s market value and make it more attractive to buyers.
4. Fire, Insect, and Rot Resistance - Fiber cement won’t burn, warp, or become insect food. That’s extra peace of mind in areas with wildlife or dense tree coverage.
5. Warranty and Longevity - With proper installation, James Hardie siding lasts 30–50 years. It comes with strong warranties, especially when installed by a certified contractor.
Cost and Return on Investment
ROI: According to Remodeling Magazine’s Cost vs. Value report, fiber cement siding consistently ranks among the top home improvements for payback at resale.
Upfront cost: Higher than vinyl or engineered wood, but less than full brick or stone.
Labor cost: Slightly higher due to heavier material and cutting requirements.
Long-term cost: Much lower maintenance and repaint cycles compared to wood or vinyl.
In short, James Hardie isn’t the cheapest siding, but over the decades, it’s one of the most cost-effective choices for Michigan homeowners.
Best Practices for Installing Hardie Siding
To get the full benefit of James Hardie siding, installation matters as much as the product itself:
Hire a Certified Installer – Many new installers do not follow specifications. If James Hardie siding is not installed properly it will fail, and you will void manufacture warranties. James Hardie will go out of their way to take care of homes with manufacturing defects. Please consider using a company with experience, such as Allied Siding and Roofing, which has been in the industry for nearly 30 years.
Use proper flashing and weather barriers – especially around windows, doors, and transitions.
Maintain ventilation and drainage – a rainscreen setup prevents trapped moisture.
Choose durable trim – pair Hardie boards with HardieTrim or other fiber cement trim.
Caulking – Make sure the contractor is using the proper caulking product. OSI Quad Max is one of the approved products. That is what we use.
When Another Option Might Make Sense
Tight budgets: Vinyl may be more affordable upfront, though less durable long-term.
Accent walls: Brick, stone veneer, or cedar can be used for character.
Historic homes: Wood siding may be appropriate if you’re dedicated to upkeep.
Example: A Michigan Home Upgrade
A 2,000 sq. ft. home in Brighton could use:
HardiePlank® lap siding with ColorPlus finish for the main body.
HardiePanel® vertical siding for gables.
Stone veneer along the foundation for accent.
HardieTrim® boards for corners and windows.
This combination delivers a durable, energy-efficient, and stylish exterior that lasts for decades with minimal maintenance.
Call Allied Siding and Roofing for your free estimate today - (248) 814-2852