Vinyl siding vs wood siding New England — which one truly lasts longer? Homeowners across Connecticut, Massachusetts, and Rhode Island face this decision every year. With harsh winters, freeze-thaw cycles, and high humidity, your siding must withstand extreme conditions. At All Site Builders, we’ve installed both materials for over 20 years. In this guide, we’ll compare vinyl vs wood siding in New England to help you choose the most durable, low-maintenance, and cost-effective option.
Homeowners across Connecticut, Massachusetts, and Rhode Island face a tough decision: go with the classic charm of wood siding, or trust the proven durability of vinyl siding?
After 20+ years serving homeowners in the region, we’ve seen firsthand what each material can — and cannot — withstand. The answer might surprise you.
Spoiler alert: Vinyl siding lasts longer in New England — and here’s why.
Why New England’s Climate Is Hard on Siding
Before we compare materials, let’s talk about the enemy: the climate.
New England weather is brutal on exterior finishes:
These conditions don’t just wear down paint — they compromise structural integrity over time.
So which siding holds up best?
Wood Siding: Beauty Comes at a Cost
There’s no denying the timeless elegance of wood siding. It adds warmth, character, and value to historic homes in Cheshire, Wallingford, and beyond.
But in New England, beauty demands sacrifice.
✅ Pros of Wood Siding
❌ Cons in New England
Even premium woods like cedar need constant attention. One missed season of sealing? That’s all it takes for water to sneak in.
«We replaced a cedar shake roof in Middletown after only 12 years — not because it looked bad, but because the backside was completely rotted from trapped moisture.»
Vinyl Siding: Engineered for New England Weather
Once considered “budget-friendly,” modern vinyl siding has evolved into a high-performance exterior solution — especially in our region.
Today’s premium vinyl is thick, impact-resistant, and designed to handle extreme temperatures without cracking.
✅ Pros of Vinyl Siding
❌ Common Myths (Debunked!)
In fact, many homeowners upgrade to insulated vinyl siding specifically for its energy savings and storm resistance.
🔗 Learn more about our Vinyl Siding Replacement Services
🔗 Schedule Your Free Exterior Inspection Today
FACTOR |
WOOD SIDING |
VINYL SIDING |
|---|---|---|
Lifespan | 15–20 years | 30–40+ years |
Maintenance | Annual ($500+/year) | Minimal (<$50/year) |
Repainting/Sealing | Every 5–7 years | Never |
Storm Resistance | Moderate | High |
Energy Efficiency | Good (if sealed) | Excellent (with insulation) |
Total Cost Over 30 Years | $25,000+ | $12,000–$18,000 |
💡 Yes — despite a higher upfront cost, vinyl saves thousands over time by eliminating ongoing maintenance and premature replacement.
The Verdict: Vinyl Wins for Durability in New England
While wood siding offers unmatched charm, vinyl siding lasts significantly longer in New England’s climate — and requires far less effort to maintain.
For homeowners who want:
…modern vinyl siding is the smarter, more durable choice.
And when installed by a trusted contractor like All Site Builders, it performs even better — with precision fitting, proper ventilation, and weatherproof flashing.
🔗 U.S. Department of Energy – Insulation & Siding Efficiency
At All Site Builders, we specialize in premium vinyl siding replacements across Central and Southern Connecticut. As a licensed, insured, and GAF-certified team, we bring the same quality craftsmanship to siding as we do to roofing.
📞 Schedule Your Free Siding Consultation Today
Ready to say goodbye to peeling paint and rotting boards?
📞 Call us now: 203-980-0698 or 860-301-6750
📧 Or fill out our contact form for a free inspection and quote
Let us show you how modern vinyl siding can transform your home — with lasting beauty, superior protection, and zero stress.
Your house deserves to look great — without costing a fortune to maintain.
With Expert Roofing & Exterior Services from All Site Builders
Roofing contractor also specializing in sideng, windows, desks and patios.
Licensed, insured, Owens Corning Preferred & GAF Certified Plus. Quality roofing and exterior services across CT since 2005.
