Siding in the Houston area deals with constant humidity, intense summer sun, heavy rain, and the occasional hurricane. The material you choose decides how often you'll be repainting and repairing.
Fiber cement is the most common choice we install. It doesn't rot, termites don't eat it, it resists fire, and it holds paint well. It's heavier and costs more to install than vinyl, but it lasts much longer in this climate.
Wood lap siding looks great but needs regular painting and caulking to keep moisture out. Vinyl is the least expensive, but it can crack in hail and warp where it gets direct sun or reflected heat.
Signs that your siding needs attention include soft or swollen boards near the ground, paint that peels again soon after repainting, gaps at the corners, and damage after a storm. Check the bottom courses and anywhere a sprinkler hits the wall first.
Whatever you choose, installation matters as much as material. A proper weather barrier, flashing at windows and doors, and the right clearance above the ground make siding last.