ULTIMATE WOOD GUIDE
Wood siding remains one of the most timeless exterior finishes—loved for its natural warmth, versatility, and curb appeal. But in 2025, homeowners face a wide spectrum of choices: traditional cedar, engineered wood, thermally modified timber (TMT), Shou Sugi Ban, and even tropical hardwoods.
This definitive guide compares performance, cost, and maintenance—linking out to detailed resources and calculators so you can make an informed decision.
1. Why Choose Wood Siding?
- Authentic aesthetic: unmatched natural grain and patina over time
- Renewable material: sustainably sourced wood can be low-carbon
- Variety: from rustic cedar shakes to sleek charred finishes
- Flexibility: can be painted, stained, oiled, or left to weather naturally
2. Traditional Cedar Siding
Cedar Siding Cost & Maintenance: Is It Worth It?
Grades: Clear, C&B, Knotty (cost varies $8–$15/sqft material)
Lifespan: 20–40 years with proper care
Maintenance: staining/painting every 3–5 years, regular inspections
Best uses: historic restorations, dry climates, premium design accents
Downside: high upkeep in humid or coastal zones, risk of mold and pests.
3. Engineered Wood Siding
Manufacturing: wood strands + resins, treated with SmartGuard® (zinc borate)
Lifespan: 20–30 years; better than pine/spruce
Pros: lighter, easier to cut, longer boards (16’ vs cedar’s 12’)
Maintenance: repainting every 8–10 years
Best for: homeowners seeking wood look with reduced upkeep.
4. Thermally Modified Timber (TMT)
Process: heat treatment (400°F+) in oxygen-free chambers
Benefits: 50–70% less moisture absorption, excellent dimensional stability
Brands: ThermoWood®, Kebony®
Cost: $12–$20/sqft
Maintenance: light oiling every 5–7 years
Best uses: humid/coastal climates where cedar struggles
5. Shou Sugi Ban (Yakisugi Charred Wood)
Origin: ancient Japanese technique, surface charring preserves wood
Look: deep black to brushed patina, modern & traditional appeal
Durability: char layer resists insects, rot, and UV
Cost: $15–$25/sqft (premium, often custom)
Maintenance: minimal—gentle cleaning, occasional oiling
Best uses: design-driven builds, humid or coastal homes, modern facades.
6. Tropical & Exotic Hardwoods
Best Wood Siding for Coastal Homes
Species: Ipe, Cumaru, Teak
Strengths: extremely dense, 40–70 year lifespan, salt & insect resistance
Costs: $20–$35/sqft
Challenges: heavy labor, pre-drilling required, high upfront cost, not always sustainably harvested
7. Comparative Performance Table
| Material | Lifespan | Cost (sqft) | Maintenance | Climate Fit |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Cedar | 20–40y | $8–$15 | High | Dry / moderate |
| Engineered Wood | 20–30y | $6–$10 | Medium | Versatile |
| Thermally Modified Wood | 25–50y | $12–$20 | Low-Medium | Humid / coastal |
| Shou Sugi Ban | 30–50y | $15–$25 | Low | Humid / coastal |
| Tropical Hardwoods | 40–70y | $20–$35 | Low | Coastal / luxury |
8. Cost Planning & Calculators
Model project cost with the Wood Siding Cost Calculator.
Compare 20-year maintenance timelines: cedar may add $15k–$20k, while TMT or Shou Sugi Ban add < $5k.
Estimate upkeep frequency using real-world data from Exterior Wood Care Guide.
9. Climate-Specific Recommendations
- Humid / Coastal → TMT or Shou Sugi Ban (cedar fails quickly here)
- Cold / Dry → Cedar or Engineered Wood (with proper sealing)
- Luxury & Longevity → Tropical hardwoods
- Budget-Friendly Look → Engineered wood
10. Environmental Impact
Cedar: renewable but high-maintenance chemicals over time
Engineered Wood: uses more of the log, lower waste, resins impact footprint
TMT: chemical-free, carbon footprint mostly energy in process
Shou Sugi Ban: sustainable if FSC wood used, minimal chemicals
Hardwoods: long-lasting but often imported—look for FSC-certified sources
FAQ: Wood Siding & Net-Zero Homes
Q1. Can wood siding work in a net-zero home?
Yes, but pair it with airtight walls, rain screens, and back-ventilation to avoid moisture traps.
Q2. Which wood siding lasts the longest?
Tropical hardwoods (40–70 years) and professionally charred Shou Sugi Ban (~50 years) outperform cedar in harsh climates—maintenance tips found in Exterior Wood Care Guide.
Q3. What’s the hidden cost of cedar?
Staining every 3–5 years can add $3k–$5k per cycle. Over 20 years, maintenance may exceed initial material cost. Reference protection intervals in Deck Care Encyclopedia.
Q4. Is engineered wood really “low-maintenance”?
Lower than cedar, but not zero. Expect repaint every 8–10 years. Full prep and sealing routines described in Wood Restoration Problems.
Q5. Does Shou Sugi Ban need refinishing?
Minimal—occasional oiling to refresh finish. Avoid pressure washing to preserve char layer. Learn more about finish-safe cleaning in Exterior Wood Care Guide.
Final Takeaway
Wood siding is a lifestyle choice.
- Choose cedar for authentic tradition—if you accept maintenance.
- Go engineered wood for affordability with lower upkeep.
- Select TMT or Shou Sugi Ban for coastal resilience and modern aesthetics.
- Invest in tropical hardwoods for luxury and longest life—if sustainably sourced.
Updated 21/10/2025