By Omer Okic, owner of Ultimate Exteriors · 28 years on Des Moines homesOriginally published August 2021 · Updated November 2026
Vinyl is the most affordable and lowest-maintenance siding, foam-backed vinyl looks and performs better for a bit more, engineered wood and fiber cement give a painted-wood look with more upkeep, and brick and stone are the premium end.
- Vinyl: lowest cost, no painting
- Foam-backed vinyl: stiffer, straighter, more durable
- Engineered wood and fiber cement: real-wood look, periodic paint
- Metal, wood, brick and stone: specialty and premium choices
There are a lot of siding choices, and each one handles Iowa weather and your budget differently. Here's a quick tour.
Vinyl siding
Vinyl is the most popular siding for its price and low maintenance. It never needs painting and comes in horizontal lap, vertical board and batten and shake styles. Thin, builder-grade vinyl can crack in hail or extreme cold and may show waves on the wall.
Foam-backed vinyl
Foam-backed vinyl, like CertainTeed CERTAplank, adds a rigid foam backer to a thicker panel. It lies flatter, looks more like painted wood and holds up better to bumps. It's our most popular siding because it gives a premium look at a mid-range price. See our siding cost guide.
Engineered wood (LP SmartSide)
Engineered wood gives a real wood look with better impact resistance than vinyl. It comes prefinished and needs repainting every several years.
Fiber cement
Fiber cement is heavy, durable and won't burn. It's more expensive to install and needs repainting periodically.
Metal siding
Aluminum and steel siding stand up to weather, insects and fire. Steel resists dents better than aluminum. Metal is more common on modern designs and outbuildings in Iowa today.
Wood siding
Natural wood like cedar is beautiful and renewable, but it needs regular painting or staining and attention to rot and pests.
Brick and stone
Brick and stone last for generations and need little maintenance, but they cost the most. Manufactured stone veneer is a popular accent on lower walls, porches and columns paired with vinyl or engineered wood.
For a deeper comparison of the three siding types we install most, read vinyl vs. fiber cement vs. LP siding for Iowa homes.
Quick answers
What is the best siding for Iowa weather?
For most homes, foam-backed vinyl or engineered wood offers the best mix of durability, looks and cost. Fiber cement is excellent if you don't mind periodic painting.
What is the cheapest siding option?
Standard vinyl is usually the most affordable. Foam-backed vinyl costs more but looks and performs noticeably better.
Choosing siding?
See siding replacement and repair, or get a free siding estimate and see samples on your home.