What’s the difference between siding and cladding?

• <div><p>Siding and cladding are two popular exterior wall coverings that protect homes from the elements and provide insulation, but they differ in design and application. Siding is applied directly to a home’s exterior, providing some insulation and basic shielding from the elements. In contrast, cladding is installed indirectly over furring strips, creating a ventilated air gap for enhanced insulation and moisture control. </p></div>

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Q: What is fiber cement shingle siding made from?

• <div><p>Fiber cement shingle siding is made from a blend of common ingredients, including cement, sand, water, and wood or cellulose fibers. The composition of the mixture varies depending on the manufacturer, however, with some makers opting to include special additives to improve longevity and resilience, and some include dyes and pigments to create custom colors that don&rsquo;t require painting. </p></div>

Q: What is the most popular type of shingle siding?

• <div><p>Vinyl is the most common shingle siding due to its rigid PVC design, longevity, affordability, and ease of installation. The next most popular types of shingle siding are fiber cement, which is in the mid-range for prices, and cedar shake, which is the most expensive. Consider the upfront cost, ongoing maintenance costs, and durability in your specific climate before deciding.</p></div>

Q: What maintenance is required for vinyl siding?

• <div><p>Little maintenance is required beyond periodic washing with a garden hose to remove dirt. Avoid using abrasive cleaners or pressure washers that might damage the siding.</p></div>

Q: Does homeowners insurance cover EIFS siding?

• <div><p>Whether or not your homeowners insurance covers EIFS stucco siding depends on the insurance company and the specifics of the policy. Some insurance companies will not cover EIFS due to its susceptibility to moisture damage, and some companies will only cover EIFS manufactured and installed after a certain date, since newer systems mitigate potential damage concerns better than older ones.</p></div>

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Verified Reviews for Siding Service pros in Ottertail, MN

*The Angi rating for Siding Service companies in Ottertail, MN is a rating based on verified reviews from our community of homeowners who have used these pros to meet their Siding Service needs.

*The HomeAdvisor rating for Siding Service companies in Ottertail, MN is a rating based on verified reviews from our community of homeowners who have used these pros to meet their Siding Service needs.

Last update on April 02, 2020

Reviewed in April 2020
Lakeside Plumbing & Heating, owned by Jerame Tysdal, was the plumbing and heating subcontractor on our home building project. We chose Lakeside because we were assured by Jerame Tysdal, who was also the general contractor, that we would receive a better product for a better price than a bid he...
Lakeside Plumbing
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Reviewed in June 2016
We got two different estimates, and Hanson's was much more willing to do an install that fit our needs rather than the needs of the service tech. They ran lines in the attic and worked hard to not have exposed lines or drains on the lake side of the house. The price was very comparable to the...
Hanson Plumbing & Heating
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Reviewed in June 2013
The kitchen was completely gutted on the first day. Amazed at how fast everything went, and the clean up that he completed so that I wouldn't have to walk into a dusty home after plaster and lathe walls were torn down. He raised the doorway heights, and widened out the entries to allow the...
JAKE PALUBICKI CONSTRUCTION
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Reviewed in April 2013
This was the worst experience of our lives. We would NEVER hire Brandon Nelson of BNelson Construction in Perham, MN again. We will never recommend him to anyone. <br /> Contracted with him for a new home construction project. Got the worst experience of our lives. <br /> First thing that went...
B Nelson Construction
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Reviewed in April 2012
They overcharged me for the work done. They also destroyed property and stole some of my belongings out of the garage. My stone grinder had been replaced by an old one. They also replaced the wood that it sits on and destroyed the cord. I had two wooden barrels on each side of my driveway. They...
R & E Custom Construction
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Siding questions, answered by experts

Siding and cladding are two popular exterior wall coverings that protect homes from the elements and provide insulation, but they differ in design and application. Siding is applied directly to a home’s exterior, providing some insulation and basic shielding from the elements. In contrast, cladding is installed indirectly over furring strips, creating a ventilated air gap for enhanced insulation and moisture control.

Fiber cement shingle siding is made from a blend of common ingredients, including cement, sand, water, and wood or cellulose fibers. The composition of the mixture varies depending on the manufacturer, however, with some makers opting to include special additives to improve longevity and resilience, and some include dyes and pigments to create custom colors that don’t require painting.

Vinyl is the most common shingle siding due to its rigid PVC design, longevity, affordability, and ease of installation. The next most popular types of shingle siding are fiber cement, which is in the mid-range for prices, and cedar shake, which is the most expensive. Consider the upfront cost, ongoing maintenance costs, and durability in your specific climate before deciding.

Little maintenance is required beyond periodic washing with a garden hose to remove dirt. Avoid using abrasive cleaners or pressure washers that might damage the siding.

Whether or not your homeowners insurance covers EIFS stucco siding depends on the insurance company and the specifics of the policy. Some insurance companies will not cover EIFS due to its susceptibility to moisture damage, and some companies will only cover EIFS manufactured and installed after a certain date, since newer systems mitigate potential damage concerns better than older ones.

The Ottertail, MN homeowners’ guide to siding services

From average costs to expert advice, get all the answers you need to get your job done.

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Haley Nothstein
•
Mar 18, 2026Mar 18, 2026
How Much Does Fiber Cement Siding Cost? [2026 Data]
Fiber cement siding is more durable and attractive than vinyl. Learn about the cost to install fiber cement siding to see if it’s a fit for your project.
Dan Simms
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Mar 6, 2026Mar 6, 2026
How Much Does Concrete Log Siding Cost? [2026 Data]
Concrete log siding costs more than traditional wood but requires less maintenance. Learn about pricing and upkeep costs to see if it’s a fit for your home.
Kate Fann
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May 30, 2026May 30, 2026
How Much Does Aluminum Siding Cost? [2026 Data]
Aluminum siding costs between $4,500 and $19,000 on average, depending on the style, square footage, and local labor rates. Keep reading to estimate your budget.
Ginny Bartolone
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Mar 6, 2026Mar 6, 2026
Metal Siding vs. Fiber Cement Siding: Costs, Pros and Cons
Compare the costs for standing seam metal siding vs. fiber siding, as well as the perks and downsides of each of these popular materials.
Rachel Hoffman
•
Mar 6, 2026Mar 6, 2026
Fiber Cement Siding vs. Vinyl Siding: Which Is Better?
Knowing the differences between fiber cement and vinyl siding can help you choose the right one for your home. Our guide explores these two siding choices.
Rachel Hoffman
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May 5, 2026May 5, 2026
What Is Siding?
Siding is a critical part of keeping your home protected from the elements and looking great. Learn what siding on a house is, how long it lasts, and what it costs.