Are Eco-Friendly Siding Materials Worth The Investment For Most Of Today’s Homeowners?

There's no denying that sustainability is a major priority for American homeowners in 2025, and with this increased demand for eco-friendly residential products comes an increased demand for the latest sighting materials.

From biodegradable siding to recycled natural materials, today's market is offering homeowners of all economic backgrounds a wide range of green alternatives. But just like a lot of other eco-friendly residential building products, the big question for today's residential siding materials is: are they really worth the money?

We recently got in touch with the Roof’s by Warrens siding experts in London OH to better understand why some of the most popular eco-friendly siding materials are growing in popularity across the country.

So check out the below sections to learn more about the benefits, drawbacks, and everything that makes these residential home improvements smart (and not so smart) investments!

What Are The Common Qualities Of Eco-Friendly Siding Materials?

Although eco-friendly siding materials naturally entail many vital qualities that homeowners want, here are the some of the criteria that a lot of contractors and homeowners are currently prioritizing in 2025:

• Made from recycled, sustainable and renewable materials

• Long lasting and durable, which reduces the typical waste from more frequent replacement 

• Non-toxic, low VOC emissions

• Energy-efficient and capable of insulating homes, while reducing HVAC needs

• Fully recyclable

Now that you know some of the typical standards that go with eco-friendly siding, let's take a closer look at which trending materials meet the latest homeowner standards!

Fiber Cement Siding

Fiber cement siding is a blend of cement, sand and various cellulose fibers. It's an incredibly eco-friendly siding material because it's durable and capable of lasting upwards of 50 years, it's pet and fire-resistant, it's made from recycled materials, and it usually requires less frequent replacement appointments in comparison to vinyl or wood siding.

Some of the downsides that homeowners should know about in terms of fiber cement siding include that it has an energy intensive manufacturing process, and it's usually heavier than most siding materials. This abnormal weight makes transporting and installing fiber cement siding more complicated.

Our take is that fiber cement siding is definitely worth it for certain homeowners who are looking for a low-maintenance, long-term siding solution that comes with some great eco benefits.

Engineered Wood Siding

Engineered wood siding is often manufactured from wood resins and fibers, and it often features recycled wood content.

This is an eco-friendly siding material because it uses renewable wood materials a lot more efficiently in comparison to traditional wood siding. It's also easier and lighter to install than fiber cement, and homeowners all over the country appreciate its eco-friendly resins.

Some downsides of engineered wood siding include that it's still subject to potential rotting when homeowners don't take care of it properly throughout the course of several years. Engineered wood siding is also known to have a shorter functional lifespan in comparison to some of the other premium siding materials in today's industry.

Our take is that a lot of homeowners who want an aesthetic wood appearance that comes with a much smaller carbon footprint will enjoy engineered wood siding, and this is particularly a good option for properties located in moderate climates.

Reclaimed Wood Siding

Reclaimed wood siding is a very exciting trend within the home construction industry, and this is partly because these siding materials come from old wood that’s been salvaged from factories barns, deconstructed buildings, and many other recycled lumber alternatives.

Some of reclaimed wood siding’s eco-friendly properties include that it requires zero tree harvesting, and it also gives homeowners that unique rustic aesthetic that a lot of people love. There's also far less energy consumption connected to these siding investments when compared to investing in newly milled wood siding.

Some of the downsides associated with reclaimed wood siding include that it might require special finishing or treatments, and it can come at an added cost due to the fluctuating nature of the installation process. 

Our take is that reclaimed wood siding is only sometimes worth it for today's homeowners, and that it's typically best for historic restorations and custom home builds where appearance is a top priority.

Recycled Aluminum & Steel Siding

Most recycled metal siding comes from aluminum or steel, and a lot of eco-conscious homeowners love how this siding option is nearly 100% recyclable, incredibly durable, and capable of lasting over 50+ years.

Metal siding also improves a home's energy efficiency through its reflective nature, and it usually is more low-maintenance in comparison to some of the other options on this list. 

Some drawbacks of recycled metal siding include that it can sometimes dent easily during intense hailstorms and severe weather events. The industrial aesthetic associated with this siding option also doesn't always suit well with every property.

Our take is that recycled metal siding is worth it for most modern homes, and it's also a perfect option for properties located in fire-prone regions and places where harsh weather is consistent.

Natural Wood Siding

Most natural wood siding comes from pine and cedar, but there are truly endless options when homeowners prioritize traditional wood siding that comes from sustainably managed forests.

Natural wood is another eco-friendly option because it's biodegradable, it requires a minimal processing method in comparison to synthetic siding materials, and it comes from FSC-certified renewable resources.

Some downsides of natural wood siding include that it's sometimes vulnerable to rot and insects, it requires regular sealing and maintenance, and it sometimes has a shorter functional lifespan as compared to other green options.

Our take is that natural wood siding is usually only worth it for homeowners who have sourced their wood responsibly and have thoroughly prepared for future maintenance plans.

Our Final Take Is That Eco-Friendly Residential Siding Is Always Worth It—If Homeowners Choose Their Options Intelligently

There's absolutely no denying how eco-friendly residential siding can be a very worthy investment for homes of all sizes, and this is partly because these options are also beneficial for the planet. 

The key to getting residential eco-friendly residential siding investments correct in 2025 is selecting a material that matches your home’s unique design, your region’s climate, and your personal budget.

By going over some of the options we listed in the above sections, homeowners can be more focused on perfectly blending natural siding materials with 21^st-Century home aesthetics.

So, if you're currently hoping to improve your property’s energy efficiency and eco-friendliness, be sure to keep some of these siding products in mind as you speak with your local roofing and siding contractors!

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Our writers like to blog about the latest interior trends. We launched the award-winning Seasons in Colour in 2015 and the luxury property and interior decor blog www.alltheprettyhomes.com in 2024 to cover all your interior design, travel and lifestyle inspiration needs.