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Choosing the Right Siding for Rainy Kent Weather

Published on: July 24, 2025

Best siding for rainy Kent weather must withstand an average of 45 inches of annual precipitation in Kent, Washington. Measurable rainfall is recorded 150-190 days out of the year. 

All that to say, homes in the Pacific Northwest must be outfitted with quality materials that can withstand this type of rainfall. Choosing quality siding is one of the most important decisions that a homeowner will make.

2FL Windows, Siding and Roofing knows the immense challenges of protecting homes in Kent. That’s why we’ve put together a guide to help your home withstand the precipitation, wind and mildew that the area subjects your home’s exterior to. When done right, you won’t have to worry about precipitation inside your home.

Why Quality Siding is Essential in Rainy Climates

Siding is not just the element that provides curb appeal for your home, though of course you want that too when replacing your home’s siding. Your siding also protects against the elements. 

Some reasons you should choose your siding carefully are because poor siding or poorly installed siding can result in:

  • Water damage
  • Mold and mildew growth
  • Warping
  • Rotting
  • Increased energy bills
  • Expensive repairs

While less expensive siding may offer some savings now, it will ultimately cost you far more throughout the life of your home due to increased energy costs and potentially costly repairs resulting from water damage later. 

Siding Materials Ideal for Rainy Climates

When evaluating Kent siding, the first step is to decide on what material. Once you’ve decided on the material, you can choose a manufacturer, features, colors, etc. Here’s a look at the primary siding materials we install on Kent homes, thanks to their moisture resistance and durability.

1. Fiber Cement

2FL is an Elite Preferred Contractor for James Hardie, a fiber cement manufacturer we trust and recommend to our clients.

The main reasons why we recommend James Hardie fiber cement siding are:

  • Durability
  • Minimal maintenance
  • Impressive moisture resistance

Not only is fiber cement effective at moisture resistance, but it is also insect and fire-resistant. That’s because of the material that this siding is made from. It is a mixture of sand, cement and cellulose fibers.

Fiber Cement Pros for Kent Homes

  • Won’t warp or rot, even when subjected to wet conditions
  • Long-lasting, up to 50 years
  • Resistant to termites and other pests
  • Various styles available, such as lap, board and batten, shingle

Fiber Cement Cons for Kent Homes

  • More expensive
  • Heavier than vinyl siding
  • Requires contractors with specialized skills
  • Must be painted every 10-15 years

James Hardie has designed and engineered its siding for climates just like what your home will be subjected to in Kent. 

2. Vinyl Siding

There’s a reason why so many homes have vinyl siding. It’s mainly because of the affordability and availability of this siding. Some reasons to consider vinyl siding include:

  • Minimal maintenance
  • Low upfront cost
  • Design options

Vinyl siding performs well in wet climates, so long as it is professionally and properly installed. While it isn’t completely waterproof, it will perform well for a few decades so long as it isn’t damaged, warped or sagging.

Vinyl Siding Pros

  • Affordable material and installation cost
  • No painting required throughout the life of the siding
  • Available in many colors and style options
  • Rot-proof and not attractive to pests

Vinyl Siding Cons

  • Extreme cold can lead to cracking, though Kent is not known for extreme cold
  • Can trap moisture when drainage is not installed correctly
  • Suffers damage when subjected to impact

A major reason your 2FL team recommends vinyl siding is because of its moisture control features. When installed well and paired with quality underlayment and effective flashing systems, you’ll be pleased with its protective measures for your home.

best siding for rainy Kent weather

3. Engineered Wood

When you love the look of wood but don’t want the maintenance requirements of wood, engineered wood can offer a good solution. We recommend this siding less frequently than fiber cement, though because it still requires more maintenance and if damaged, is susceptible to rot, decay and other moisture problems.

However, some reasons why homeowners choose engineered wood siding are:

  • Appearance of natural wood with better home protection
  • Greater moisture protection when compared with real wood
  • Lighter than fiber cement

A popular manufacturer of engineered wood siding is LP SmartSide. It mimics the appearance of real wood, with all its natural designs and beauty. As you decide whether this might be right for you, here’s a look at some common considerations for whether it is right for you.

Engineered Wood Siding Pros

  • Looks like real wood for ultimate curb appeal
  • Is finished with a treatment that is moisture, pest and mold resistant
  • Easy to install
  • Can be painted if you choose to adjust your home’s appearance later

Engineered Wood Siding Cons

  • Still has maintenance requirements, though not as involved as real wood
  • More expensive when compared to vinyl
  • Shorter life when compared to fiber cement

Choosing Siding Color in Rainy Kent

When selecting your Kent home siding, consider the color. Some colors will show water spots and algae more than others. 

The lighter the color, the less likely it is to show water spots and algae. Using a textured finish can also mask dirt, especially if you’d like to clean your siding less frequently.

Weather is not the only consideration when choosing your siding color, however. You should also evaluate your home’s architecture style as the color can make your home’s style come to life. Not sure what color is style appropriate? Your 2FL team can help guide you toward an ideal color based on your preferences.

Why Proper Installation is Just as Important as the Material

Regardless of the siding material you go with for your replacement project, you should carefully choose the installation team. That’s because the installation quality is just as important – if not more important – than the material itself.

Contractors who use poor flashing, improper nailing techniques or cut corners on moisture barriers can lower the effectiveness of even the highest-quality, most expensive siding.

2FL is committed to:

  • Installing advanced moisture management systems
  • Using only certified siding products from leading brands
  • Offering customers quality installation warranties that they can rely on
  • Protecting homeowners by carrying the proper licensing, insurance and bonding

Allow the Professionals to Do It

Final Thoughts on Choosing Appropriate Siding for Kent Homes

We’ve outlined a variety of tips and insights on ideal siding for Kent homes. As you make your checklist for your home’s siding, include these elements.

  • Moisture resistance: Kent homeowners should prioritize moisture resistance when selecting their siding to provide the greatest protection for their homes.
  • Durability: Think about how long you want your materials to last or when you want to have to replace your siding again. Part of this is the maintenance required over the life of the siding.
  • Appropriate design based on home style: Give your home’s curb appeal major consideration. You want your siding style to match your existing home features unless you plan to complete an entire exterior renovation.

Upgrade Your Home’s Exterior Protection

Get started now with protecting your home by upgrading your home’s siding. 2FL Windows, Siding and Roofing is your reliable, knowledgeable Kent siding company. Schedule your free estimate now to take an important step toward protecting your home from moisture.

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