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Fiber cement siding is the best siding to install over stucco because it offers many of the same benefits for homes where stucco is common, including fire resistance, insect resistance, and good insulation. Fiber cement siding is also rigid, so it won’t warp over time like vinyl siding might if installed over furring strips.

There are several highly durable types of siding that you can build right on top of without removing it, with wood being one of them, provided it's in excellent condition. However, a common reason for siding replacement is to eliminate materials that are in poor condition, making installing new wood siding over old not recommended. Additionally, the cost of adding siding over existing siding can increase costs to between $7 and $13 per square foot.

While almost nothing is completely fireproof, metal siding is extremely fire-resistant. It’s non-combustible so while it may eventually melt in extreme temperatures, it won’t actually light on fire itself. This can add a layer of safety to structures that wood or vinyl siding can’t, making it attractive for industrial use. Metal siding can significantly slow down the spread of a fire, giving extinguishers and firefighters a much better chance at saving the structure and containing the blaze. 

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.