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Comparing James Hardie, Vinyl, Aluminum, and LP Siding – Which is Best for Your Oakland County Home?

If you live in Southeast Michigan, you know our weather is no joke. From freezing winters to hot, humid summers, your home’s siding needs to handle it all while keeping your house looking sharp.

As the best siding company in Oakland County, we’ve worked with all major siding materials. Let’s compare Siding Options so you can choose what’s right for your home.


1. James Hardie Siding (Fiber Cement)

Pros:

  • Extremely durable in Michigan’s snow, rain, and wind

  • Fire resistant, won’t ignite or melt

  • Upscale look that mimics natural wood

  • Long lifespan (30–50 years)

Cons:

  • Higher cost than vinyl or aluminum

  • Heavier material requires longer installation

Best For: Homeowners wanting a premium, long-lasting siding that handles Michigan weather well.

james-hardie-siding-level-up-improvement


2. Everlast Composite Siding

Pros:

  • Maintenance-free: no painting or sealing needed

  • Ultra durable: won’t rot, fade, or be damaged by insects

  • Weatherproof: perfect for Michigan’s changing seasons

  • Premium appearance with rich, deep colors

Cons:

  • Higher price point among siding options

  • Fewer installers certified to install it

Best For: Homeowners seeking a lifetime, maintenance-free siding in Oakland County.


3. Vinyl Siding

Pros:

  • Budget-friendly, lowest upfront cost

  • Low maintenance, just occasional washing

  • Wide variety of colors and styles

Cons:

  • Can crack in extreme cold or warp in heat

  • Less upscale appearance compared to Hardie or Everlast

Best For: Budget-conscious homeowners in Oakland County who want easy upkeep.

vinyl siding livonia, michigan


4. Aluminum Siding

Pros:

  • Resistant to rain, snow, and insects

  • Fire resistant

  • Durable for the price

Cons:

  • Dents easily from hail or impact

  • Colors can fade in strong sun

Best For: Homes needing durable, fire-safe siding on a budget.


5. LP SmartSide (Engineered Wood)

Pros:

  • Beautiful, warm wood look

  • Treated to resist rot and insects

  • Lightweight and easier to install than fiber cement

Cons:

  • Requires repainting over time

  • Costs more than vinyl but less than Hardie

Best For: Those wanting natural wood appearance with more protection, ideal for Southeast Michigan homes.


Final Thoughts

Each siding type offers different benefits. For affordability and low maintenance, vinyl is great. For premium, long-lasting siding, James Hardie and Everlast lead the way. LP SmartSide is perfect for a wood look with durability, and aluminum offers a solid, fire-resistant option on a budget.

At Level Up Improvement, we can help you compare siding options and we install all these siding types across Oakland County and Southeast Michigan. We’ll help you find the best siding for your home, style, and budget — installed to last through every Michigan season.


Contact the best siding company in Oakland County today for a free estimate and start your home’s siding upgrade!