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If you have stucco on the outside of your home, it’s technically considered cladding and not siding, but beyond that, it’s impossible to tell without a little digging. Without damaging the siding material, expose part of it to see if there’s an air gap between the siding and your exterior wall. If there is, you have cladding. If the siding is affixed directly to the exterior wall, you have a simple siding system.

Vines can cause severe damage to your siding. They can grow underneath and all around siding, which can cause it to pop off or split. Vines also trap moisture, which can damage siding by causing rot. The cost to replace siding may make you consider getting rid of the ivy or adding a trellis or lattice support for it to grow on instead.

Brick and stone are the most durable and longest-lasting siding materials, often lasting for 100 years or more with proper maintenance. Copper is another material known to last over 100 years, though it can develop a greenish patina over time. Zinc is a metal siding that can last 80-100 years. While these options are the most expensive, they offer superior value and longevity. For a more affordable yet durable choice, stucco can last 50 to 80 years in dry climates. Fiber cement siding is another excellent middle ground, offering a lifespan of 50 years or more with low maintenance at a lower cost than stone or brick.

Stucco siding is the most energy-efficient option on its own, but you can choose insulated vinyl, insulated metal, or insulated brick or stone facade siding that improves energy efficiency even further. These options include a layer of foam insulation under the siding to reduce heat transfer between your living space and the exterior. If you live in a particularly sunny climate, a reflective option like insulated steel or aluminum siding can maximize efficiency.