There are many choices when replacing the exterior of your house. One of the most controversial is vinyl siding or stucco. Which is better for your home and why?

Both options look great from the outside. But, for Midwest homeowners, one is better.

What's Stucco?

Before we can say which is superior, you might wonder what stucco looks like. It's made by combining cement or earth with lime and silica. This produces a strong, durable material many homeowners choose to use as their exterior.

But, is it able to compete with America's most loved home cladding, vinyl siding? We're about as close to finding out as you are!

Stucco siding will make you pay way more.

Many homeowners decide on their home based solely on the price. While it's not something we recommend as the main factor, it's important. Stucco siding will be more costly than vinyl siding.

Stucco, which costs $6-$9/square ft, is the most expensive type of home cladding. Vinyl siding prices can vary greatly, but the best option isn't nearly as expensive.

So stucco costs more. This is a big disadvantage. However, it might be worth it if the product is better. You may be surprised to learn the answer.

Both options are energy-efficient, but only one is better.

Both stucco and vinyl siding are efficient for your home. They retain the heat and cool in your home, making it more comfortable in whatever season.

It's not just energy-efficient home cladding; it can also help you reduce your energy costs. Your furnace will use less energy because your furnace and air conditioner are able to trap the heated and cool air within your home. This will be shown on your monthly bill.

Both are excellent options, but vinyl siding is the better. Vinyl siding also includes foam insulation that's placed underneath the panels. It acts like a huge blanket that wraps around your house. Your home is completely sealed off from the outside.

Vinyl siding is simpler to maintain.

One major difference between stucco vs. vinyl is how much maintenance it requires. Stucco's colors fade over time. Your home will need to have its colors repainted to preserve its beauty.

Vinyl siding does not fade, and you don't have any worries about that. This is because the colors are baked into the siding panels when they are made. Vinyl siding that has been exposed to the sun's harmful radiations won't fade and will continue to look just as beautiful as when it was installed.

Vinyl siding will only need to be cleaned one time per year. It's easy to do in 45 minutes.