Vinyl vs. Cedar Shake: Choosing the Right Siding for Long Island Winters

Driving through South Farmingdale, you see a distinct mix of architectural styles. You have the classic post-war Capes, the sprawling Ranches, and the stately Colonials. But regardless of the shape of the house, the “skin” protecting it is what matters most.

Your siding is the first line of defense against our brutal Long Island weather—from the salt air coming off the South Shore to the freezing nor’easters that batter us in February. When it’s time to re-side your home, you are faced with the classic Long Island debate: The timeless beauty of Cedar Shake vs. the modern durability of Vinyl.

At Lee Home Improvement, we install both. We know that the “right” choice depends entirely on your budget, your patience for maintenance, and the look you want to achieve.

The Contender: Vinyl Siding

Vinyl has come a long way since the shiny, brittle plastic panels of the 1970s. Today’s “architectural” vinyl is thicker, textured, and designed to mimic the grain of real wood.

The Pros: Low Cost, No Stress

The biggest advantage of vinyl is that you can install it and forget it. It never needs painting. It doesn’t rot. Termites hate it. For a busy family in Farmingdale, washing it down with a garden hose once a year is all the maintenance it requires.

The Cons: The “Plastic” Factor

Even the best vinyl can still look synthetic up close. If a panel cracks during a storm, you often have to replace the whole section. Also, standard vinyl offers very little insulation value unless you opt for the insulated “foam-backed” variety.

The Classic: Cedar Shake

Nothing says “Long Island” quite like Cedar Shake. It is the quintessential coastal look, offering a rich, warm texture that vinyl simply cannot replicate. It naturally resists insects and rot (to a degree) and weathers into that beautiful silvery-grey tone over time.

The Pros: Unmatched Beauty & Value

A home clad in real cedar instantly commands a higher resale value. It adds character and depth to the curb appeal that flat siding lacks.

The Cons: High Maintenance & Cost

Beauty has a price. Cedar is significantly more expensive to purchase and install. It requires regular staining or sealing every 3-5 years to prevent it from turning black or curling. If neglected, it can rot, absorb moisture, and become a haven for woodpeckers.

The Comparison: What Fits Your Life?

Here is a breakdown of how they stack up for a typical Nassau County home:

The “Best of Both Worlds”: Composite Siding

If you love the look of cedar but hate the idea of painting, Lee Home Improvement offers a third option: Composite (Polymer) Shakes.

Brands like CertainTeed or James Hardie offer “cedar impression” siding. These are molds taken from real wood shingles but cast in durable polymer or fiber cement. From the street, you cannot tell the difference. Up close, they feel solid. They offer the aesthetic of the Hamptons with the maintenance schedule of vinyl.

Upgrade Your Curb Appeal Today

Your siding is the face your home presents to the world. Don’t let cracked vinyl or rotting wood drag down your property value.

Not sure which style is right for you? Call Lee Home Improvement at (516) [Insert Number] for a free consultation. We’ll bring samples right to your driveway.