In Rhode Island, siding does more than just look good. It is your home’s first line of defense against salt air, nor’easters, wind-driven rain, and humid summers. If you are planning a renovation in East Greenwich, North Kingstown, or Warwick this year, you are probably debating between three main choices: vinyl, polymer composite (cedar impressions), or natural cedar.
At Mighty Dog Roofing of Rhode Island, we believe an educated homeowner is our best customer. Here is how the 2026 options stack up.
1) The “Smart” Standard: High-Performance Vinyl
Gone are the days of flimsy plastic siding that cracks in winter. Modern systems like CertainTeed Monogram (our “Best” vinyl package) are engineered for the New England climate.
The pros: Cost-effective, low maintenance (typically a garden hose wash), and available in heavier-gauge panels designed to handle high winds.
The look: With 5-inch clapboard reveals and deeper colors like Midnight Blue or Barn Red, it can mimic the look of painted wood without the peeling.
Best for: Homeowners in Warwick and Cranston who want strong curb appeal with minimal maintenance.
2) The “Coastal” Look: Polymer Cedar Impressions
If you love the look of cedar shingles but do not love the idea of mold, algae staining, and wood rot, polymer shake (often called cedar impressions) is a popular 2026 solution.
The pros: Many polymer shake products are molded from real cedar textures, giving a more authentic look than flat panels. Because the material is non-wood, it is far more resistant to moisture-related deterioration.
The ROI: This is a common choice for capital-improvement upgrades in coastal and high-income towns like Narragansett and Barrington, where the “shingle style” exterior is part of the local aesthetic.
Best for: The East Bay look without the East Bay maintenance headaches.
3) The “Historic” Standard: Natural White Cedar
For homes in historic districts (like Providence’s East Side) or for true coastal purists, nothing beats the character of real wood.
The reality: Real cedar is a lifestyle choice. It requires stewardship, and the installation details matter.
The system: We install natural cedar with a rain screen system (such as Slicker Classic mesh) that lets the wood breathe and drain from the back. Without a rain screen and proper detailing, modern cedar can trap moisture and deteriorate far faster than homeowners expect.
Best for: Historic preservation and homeowners who want the real-wood look and are willing to maintain it.
The “Hidden” Layer: Why Insulation Matters
No matter which cladding you choose, 2026 energy costs make the most important layer the one you do not see.
We often recommend upgrading the underlayment with rigid foam or fanfold insulation under the siding. This can help smooth out wall imperfections (common in older Rhode Island homes) and add a thermal break that helps keep conditioned air inside.
Quick Buyer Checklist (2026)
- Do you want zero maintenance, or are you okay with periodic upkeep?
- Are you in a coastal or salt-air zone where materials take more abuse?
- Is your home in a historic district with style or approval requirements?
- Are your walls uneven (common in older homes), making insulation/underlayment more important?
- Are you planning other exterior work (roofing, gutters, windows) that should be coordinated?
Rhode Island Service Locations:
Ashaway, Barrington, Bradford, Bristol, Carolina, Central Falls, Charlestown, Chepachet, Clayville, Coventry, Cranston, Cumberland, East Greenwich, East Providence, Exeter, Forestdale, Foster, Glendale, Greene, Greenville, Harrisville,Hope,Hope Valley, Hopkinton, Jamestown, Johnston, Kenyon, Kingston, Lincoln, Little Compton, Manville, Mapleville, Middletown, Narragansett, Newport, North Kingstown, North Providence, North Scituate, North Smithfield, Oakland, Pascoag, Pawtucket, Portsmouth, Providence, Riverside, Rockville, Rumford, Saunderstown, Shannock, Scituate, Slatersville, Smithfield, Tiverton, Wakefield, Warren, Warwick, West Greenwich, West Kingston, West Warwick, Westerly, Wood River Junction, Woonsocket, Wyoming
FAQ
How much does new siding cost in Rhode Island?
In 2026, siding replacement varies by material, wall complexity, and trim details. High-quality vinyl often starts around $12.50 per sq ft installed, while composite and natural cedar packages can range roughly from $25.00 to $45.00 per sq ft installed.
Is vinyl siding good for Rhode Island winters?
Yes, if you choose a heavier-gauge panel from a reputable manufacturer and it is installed correctly to allow for expansion and contraction. Budget-grade vinyl can become brittle and crack in extreme cold.
What siding is best for coastal Rhode Island homes?
It depends on the look you want and how much maintenance you are willing to do. Many homeowners choose polymer shake for a coastal shingle-style appearance with lower moisture risk than real wood.
Do I need a rain screen behind cedar siding?
In many cases, a rain screen is strongly recommended because it creates a drainage and drying space behind the wood, helping reduce moisture buildup and premature rot.
If you are planning a siding renovation in East Greenwich, North Kingstown, Warwick, or anywhere in Rhode Island, call (401) 425-4108 to schedule an inspection and get a clear “good, better, best” siding recommendation for your home.