Minnesota’s climate presents a serious challenge for any home exterior. With freezing winters, wet springs, and intense summer sun, your siding needs to do more than look good—it must withstand the elements year after year. That’s why choosing the right siding material and brand is one of the most important decisions for homeowners in the Twin Cities.
At Knutson Partners, one of the most trusted siding contractors in Minneapolis, we work exclusively with proven, high-performance brands like LP Smartside, EDCO, and Mitten Siding. Each offers unique benefits tailored to our local climate. But which one is the best fit for your home?
Let’s compare their features, advantages, and performance in Minnesota’s harsh weather conditions.
Why Your Siding Brand Matters in Minnesota
Minnesota homes face:
Below-zero temperatures and wind chills
Ice dams and heavy snow buildup
Freeze-thaw cycles that cause expansion and contraction
Moisture penetration and humidity
Intense UV rays during long summer days
These extremes can cause cheap siding to crack, warp, rot, or fade. That’s why top-quality brands like LP Smartside, EDCO, and Mitten stand out. Let’s look at each.
1. LP Smartside Siding: Strength & Style in One Package
LP Smartside is one of the most popular engineered wood siding products in the U.S., and it’s a favorite for many Minneapolis homeowners. It offers the warm, authentic look of traditional wood—without the maintenance headaches.
✅ Why It’s Great for Minnesota:
Engineered wood technology resists moisture, impact, fungal decay, and pests
Factory-applied SmartGuard® treatment protects against harsh weather
Stands up well to freeze-thaw cycles
Available in lap siding, panel siding, shakes, and trim
Works with almost any architectural style
Ideal For:
Homeowners who want the charm of real wood
Long-term durability with lower maintenance
Eco-conscious buyers (LP uses sustainable wood sources)
Knutson Partners is an experienced installer of LP Smartside siding in Minneapolis, ensuring precision fit and finish with every panel.
Also Read: How Much Does Roof Replacement or Repair Cost in 2025?
2. EDCO Siding: Steel Strength for Northern Climates
EDCO is a Minnesota-based manufacturer that offers steel siding, one of the most durable and weather-resistant options available. Designed for extreme conditions, EDCO products are made to last 50+ years with minimal upkeep.
✅ Why It’s Great for Minnesota:
Steel core resists cracking, warping, and fading
Won’t absorb moisture—ideal for snowy winters and humid summers
Maintenance-free with baked-on finishes
Hail-resistant and Class A fire-rated
Fade warranties up to 30 years
Ideal For:
Homeowners wanting industrial-grade durability
Those seeking a modern or sleek exterior style
Zero-maintenance exterior over the long term
If you want steel siding in Minneapolis, EDCO is the gold standard. And Knutson Partners proudly installs it with factory-certified techniques.
3. Mitten Siding: Vinyl Versatility & Affordability
Mitten Inc., a leading Canadian brand, produces high-quality vinyl siding that offers durability, color variety, and affordability. It’s a great option for homeowners who want a good balance between performance and price.
✅ Why It’s Great for Minnesota:
Premium vinyl formulas designed to handle cold temperatures without cracking
Color-fast technology resists fading in UV-rich environments
Water-repellent surface reduces moisture absorption
Lightweight, flexible, and easy to maintain
Ideal For:
Budget-conscious homeowners
Rental properties or multi-family homes
Traditional and contemporary home styles
As one of the leading siding companies in Minneapolis, we install Mitten vinyl siding with professional precision, offering dozens of styles and finishes to match your home's look.
Performance Comparison Table
| Feature | LP Smartside | EDCO Steel Siding | Mitten Vinyl Siding |
|---|---|---|---|
| Weather Resistance | ★★★★☆ | ★★★★★ | ★★★☆☆ |
| Impact Resistance | ★★★★☆ | ★★★★★ | ★★★☆☆ |
| Maintenance Level | ★★★★☆ | ★★★★★ | ★★★★☆ |
| Style/Appearance | ★★★★★ | ★★★★☆ | ★★★☆☆ |
| Cost Range | $$–$$$ | $$$$ | $–$$ |
| Ideal Climate Match | Excellent | Excellent | Good |
FeatureLP SmartsideEDCO Steel SidingMitten Vinyl SidingWeather Resistance★★★★☆★★★★★★★★☆☆Impact Resistance★★★★☆★★★★★★★★☆☆Maintenance Level★★★★☆★★★★★★★★★☆Style/Appearance★★★★★★★★★☆★★★☆☆Cost Range$$–$$$$$$$$–$$Ideal Climate MatchExcellentExcellentGood
What’s the Best Choice for You?
Want the look of real wood with long-term protection? → LP Smartside
Need maximum durability with zero maintenance? → EDCO steel siding
Looking for affordable style with low upkeep? → Mitten vinyl siding
At Knutson Partners, we guide you through the selection process during your in-home consultation. You’ll get to see and feel samples of each siding type so you can make the right choice with confidence.
Why Choose Knutson Partners?
Licensed & experienced siding contractors in Minneapolis
We install all major brands with a focus on Minnesota-specific performance
Use of locally sourced materials when available
Friendly, detailed consultations with material samples
Full-service support—from removal to finishing trim
We’re not just another name among siding companies in Minneapolis—we’re your local partners in protecting and beautifying your home.
Final Thoughts
Choosing the right siding is more than just picking a color or texture—it’s about ensuring your home is protected against Minnesota’s toughest weather. LP Smartside, EDCO, and Mitten all offer high-performance siding products, and the best option depends on your home’s style, budget, and maintenance preferences.
Ready to upgrade your exterior? Schedule a free consultation with Knutson Partners today and get expert advice backed by real product experience.
Also Read: Transform Your Home with Minneapolis’ Trusted Remodeling Experts
