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The cost of wood siding varies by the type of wood. Engineered wood siding tends to be in the middle of typical costs ($3 to $7 per square foot for materials). Hardwoods, for instance, can cost $5 to $20 per square foot for materials alone, but cedar wood can be as cheap as $3 per square foot.

Yes, you can shou sugi ban existing siding, but it might pose a hazard to wooden structures, shouldn’t involve treated wood, and must be done by a siding professional. You can not char wood on a house without first removing the boards, so it’s a more complicated replacement project than other siding types.

No, you don’t need to use the same siding around the entire home. Using different siding for different walls can actually increase the soft value of your home. Many homeowners opt to add vinyl siding on the sides of their home not facing the street, opting for higher-end siding materials like stone or wood for the front of the house. Stone veneer siding can be a cost-effective option for homeowners who like the appearance of stone, but not the cost.

You should plan to stain or refinish your home's cedar siding every three to seven years to maintain its appearance and provide maximum protection, though some estimates suggest a range of four to six years. The exact frequency depends on several factors, including your local climate, exposure to severe weather like direct sunlight, rain, and wind, the quality of the initial stain application, the type of stain used, and the overall condition and quality of the wood.

For homes in harsh climates with high humidity and significant sun exposure, you should plan on staining as often as every three years, while those in milder locations may only need to do so every seven years. For the longest-lasting protection in particularly harsh climates, consider using an opaque stain.

If you are looking for a lower-maintenance alternative, you might consider vinyl or aluminum siding. While the initial installation cost can be higher, they do not require as much upkeep and can offer more value over time, especially in areas with excessive rainfall or high humidity.