The popularity of T1-11 siding in the 80s and 90s was unrivaled. Homeowners fell in love with the natural wood finish that it presented after installation.
Today, the popularity of T1-11 siding has declined significantly despite it being cheap, easy to install, and widely available.
Most homeowners currently prefer to explore T1-11 siding alternatives that are more durable and resistant to moisture damage. Below, I have scoured the market and identified the top 5 T1-11 siding alternatives.
1. LP SmartSide
This is the best T1-11 siding alternative in the market. As you may already know T1-11 is made using plywood and OSB.
LP SmartSide, on the other hand, is made using engineered wood. The latter is a type of wood that has been engineered and reformulated to be more durable than the real version.
LP SmartSide was introduced in the 90s. And ever since, it has given T1-11 a run for its money. It looks like T1-11 but it delivers exceptional performance and durability.
Engineered wood indeed looks a bit artificial. But it still has the elegant properties of wood. Besides that, it is available in more than 10 different colors. What I like about LP SmartSide is that it can also be painted to spice up the exterior aesthetics.
Unlike T1-11, LP SmartSide requires minimal maintenance because it’s more resistant to the elements. As if that’s not enough, it’s also resistant to insects and rotting.
You should, however, know that LP SmartSide is a bit pricier than T1-11. But when you factor in the benefits that you’ll be getting, it’s worth every penny!
2. James Hardie Siding
Most people assume that James Hardie only manufactures backer boards. But they also make excellent fiber cement siding which are ideal alternatives to T1-11.
The James Hardie Siding is made out of cellulose fibers, sand, and cement. These three materials contribute to its durability and stunning aesthetic appeal.
Compared to the T1-11, James Hardie is more capable of resisting moisture penetration. This siding can withstand constant exposure to harsh weather and it will still look as good as new.
It’s also worth mentioning that this fiber cement siding is fire-resistant. That can come in pretty handy when you’re negotiating your homeowner’s insurance.
It’s also pet-resistant, low maintenance, and available in a wide range of finishes. It has a thirty-year warranty and from most reviews, this siding can last for decades.
That’s unlike T1-11 which may only give you a decade’s worth of experience at best.
3. Vinyl Siding
In your quest to find the best T1-11 alternative, you shouldn’t overlook vinyl siding. Out of all the other options on this list, vinyl siding is the only one that’s as affordable as T1-11. But it’s more resistant to moisture, insects, and rot.
I’m not going to mention a particular brand because there are so many manufacturers of vinyl siding. However, all vinyl sidings make excellent T1-11 siding alternatives.
First of all, vinyl sidings are available in a wide range of finishes. Did you know that you can get one that closely resembles T1-11? Also, it doesn’t absorb moisture. So, you don’t have to worry about water damage.
The other advantage vinyl siding has over T1-11 is that it requires minimal maintenance. As long as you dust and clean it every once in a while, the only thing you may have to do is paint it when the finish starts to fade.
4. Metal Siding
Metal siding is just like T1-11. The main difference is that the latter is made out of real wood whereas metal siding comprises aluminum or steel.
You should consider this T1-11 alternative if you live in an area that experiences adverse weather conditions. Metal siding is well known for holding its ground against strong winds and storms.
A while back, rust was a big issue for metal siding. But these days, the likes of aluminum siding are highly resistant to corrosion.
Unlike T1-11, metal siding doesn’t expand or contract. And it can last for a very long time. Metal siding is also fire-resistant. That’s a feature you don’t get from T1-11. It’s also easy to maintain.
5. Cedar Siding
In terms of similarities, cedar siding is the next best alternative to T1-11. But there are a couple of notable differences. Cedar gives you a similar natural wood finish as is the case with T1-11.
However, cedar is more water-resistant than plywood. That contributes significantly to its durability. There are also some versions of cedar like the Alaskan Yellow which are also insect resistant.
Therefore, if you are determined to have natural siding on your home’s exterior, cedar siding is a much better option than T1-11.
It will not absorb water as easily as T1-11. That means you can get up to 50 years of service. Please note that cedar siding is equally as high maintenance as T1-11.
Reasons Why You Maybe Interested in T1-11 Siding Alternatives
T1-11 siding is undeniably one of the most aesthetically appealing options in the market. However, its cons outweigh the pros. Here are some of the reasons why people prefer to use its alternatives;
• T1-11 is Highly Vulnerable to Water Damage
Because it’s made out of real wood, T1-11 siding absorbs water easily. Considering that siding is installed on the exterior part of a building, using T1-11 as a siding increases its risk of water exposure.
As a result, the water damages the structural integrity of the plywood or OSB. The water damage on T1-11 is more severe in homes that are constantly exposed to rain and snow.
• T1-11 is Highly Flammable
Unfortunately, T1-11 is a flammable material. Homeowners who are interested in enhancing the fire safety ratings in their homes are forced to explore alternatives such as fiber cement or metal sidings which are non-flammable.
• It’s Easily Affected by Insects and Pests
Another issue homeowners with T1-11 siding have to face is infestation from pests and insects. With such a siding, termites and woodpeckers will be your regular guests.
But with T1-11 alternatives such as LP SmartSide and John Hardie siding, this will be the least of your worries.
• It Needs Regular Maintenance
The modern homeowner has no time to stain or repaint their siding every year. And this is what makes most people reluctant to install T1-11 siding in their homes.
The good news is that many T1-11 alternatives do not need regular care or maintenance.
• T1-11 is Not Durable
When sourcing building materials, longevity or durability is usually a key factor to consider. T1-11 siding has a lifespan of 15 to 30 years. It is the least durable siding on the market.
The likes of engineered wood or fiber cement siding can serve you for more than 50 years with minimal maintenance. So, the other reason why people explore T1-11 alternatives is to get a durable material.
Factors to Consider When Comparing T1-11 Siding Alternatives
As you browse through various T1-11 siding alternatives, here are a few things that you should keep in mind;
• Aesthetics – T1-11 siding looks amazing. So, if you prefer a natural wood finish, you can go for an alternative such as engineered wood or a vinyl siding with a wood finish.
• Cost – T1-11 siding is quite affordable. And if you’re on a budget, you should stick to alternatives that are at the same price level like vinyl siding.
• Ease of installation – I would heavily recommend going for a siding alternative that is equally easy to install. Because that will save you the labor costs of hiring an expert contractor.
• Durability – Never overlook the importance of durability. A good T1-11 siding alternative should last longer and offer you better value for your money and this won’t be much of a problem since nearly all other types of siding are more durable than T1-11.