Wood is one of the most popular siding options available in the U.S. Known for its distinct appearance and natural durability, wood siding is an excellent choice for those looking to enhance their curb appeal with stunning, natural details.

While you may be set on using wood siding for your home, you may still have questions about what type of wood siding will provide both the look and lasting power you’re after. There are thousands of different wood species out there, however, some may not be suitable to use for the shell of your home. To help you narrow it down, here are five of the most common species used for wood siding.

Cedar

Oftentimes when we think of wood siding, we think of cedar. Cedar is known for its stability and natural rot and insect resistance. Cedar siding comes in all different shapes and forms but is most often seen taking the form of shakes and shingles. Because of its generally straight grain, cedar is less likely to cup, swell, or split, making it an excellent choice for exterior applications where moisture levels fluctuate greatly.

The downside to this siding option is the price point. On average, cedar siding costs about $6- $12 per square foot, making it a more costly option than pine or fir.

Douglas fir

Douglas fir is the unsung hero of wood siding options. While Douglas fir is a softwood, it is one of the most durable softwoods on the market, making it the go-to choice for many builders. Douglas fir is known to be easy to work with and has an even grain that makes finishing a breeze.

Overall, Douglas fir is a fairly durable species, especially when it comes to drier climates. With proper installation and upkeep, Douglas fir siding can last for decades. If you’re looking to get the best bang for your buck with the peace of mind to know your home is going to be protected for many years, Douglas fir is the way to go.

Redwood

Redwood is one of the most preferred species when it comes to wood siding. Redwood is extremely durable, with natural insect-repellant and rot-resistant properties. It requires very minimal upkeep and accepts finishes easily. It is considered a very stable wood that does not tend to move and shrink much, meaning less of a risk for cupping and warping.

Despite its glowing report card, redwood can be difficult to come by if you are not building in the Western U.S.

Pine

Pine has been a long-standing competitor when it comes to wood siding. This softwood is easy to come by, making it a very inexpensive option, on average. Despite its popularity, many builders are wary when it comes to using pine for siding, despite its enticing price point. While pine finishes well, it can be prone to splitting, cupping, and checking. Additionally, pine is not naturally rot-resistant, so making sure it is protected and well-maintained is a must.

Spruce

Spruce is a member of the pine family and is often substituted for pine on the East Coast. Like pine, spruce is not naturally rot-resistant or insect-repellant, so it is crucial to be sure it is well-treated upon installation. Even with proper installation, spruce requires much more time and energy to maintain than one of the more durable wood siding options.

While there are many different types of siding out there nowadays, you can’t go wrong with a classic wood siding. At Marks Lumber, we are known for our beautiful, circle sawn Douglas fir sidings. Contact our qualified sales team today to learn more about our rough cut sidings.