New homes in the United States most commonly use vinyl and stucco siding on their exteriors. According to the Census Bureau’s Survey of Construction, 27 percent of new homes in 2017 had vinyl siding, and 25 percent of homes had stucco siding. Brick and brick veneer followed with 21 percent, and fiber cement siding (such as HardiPlank) garnered a 20 percent share.
The Survey of Construction covers new, privately owned residential buildings and collects information on start date, completion date, sales date and price, and physical characteristics for each housing unit. Manufacturers use this data to plan production schedules and establish market shares. Insurance companies use this information to adjust rates and establish replacement costs. Financial institutions use the information to help predict future mortgage demands.
Materials Vary by Region
Although vinyl and stucco dominated new building exteriors, the researchers noted siding preferences varied a great deal by region. On the West Coast, 63 percent of new houses had stucco. Two-thirds of homes in the west south central region of the country were brick. In New England, 72 percent of new homes had vinyl siding.
Although generally considered attractive, rock and stone materials were used on just one percent of all homes. This may be a good thing for homeowners since many home inspectors report nearly all homes with stone veneer siding have it installed incorrectly. Poor installation leads to water seepage, rotting walls, and mold problems that may not be evident until years later.
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