A Coon Rapids Exterior Remodel: Combining Three Siding Materials

Can you combine different siding materials on one home?

Yes, combining siding materials is a smart way to get both curb appeal and lasting value. On a recent exterior remodel in Coon Rapids, Archway Contracting used three: Diamond Kote on the front elevation for a premium, finished look; insulated Polar Wall vinyl (by Norandex) on the sides and rear for durability and added value; and Versetta Stone accents to elevate the entry. Here’s how the project came together, and why the material mix made sense for this home.

The homeowner’s goal: a total exterior remodel, and the right fit

The homeowner wanted a complete exterior transformation, but finding the right contractor took some patience. After two companies that didn’t listen, she connected with Chris at Archway. In her words:

That patience mattered, because a project combining three materials involves real decisions, and the goal was to get them right.

The starting point

The home’s original lap siding was weathered and dated, with the finish worn thin in places. It was sound enough to live with, but it no longer did the house justice, and it was the perfect candidate for a full exterior upgrade rather than a patch.

The material plan: premium in front, value all around

The strategy on this home is one our industry sometimes calls the “Minnesota mullet”: business in the front, party in the back. It sounds like a joke, but the logic is sound:

• Front elevation: Diamond Kote. The front is what everyone sees, so it got Diamond Kote for a premium, crisp, prefinished look that anchors the home’s curb appeal.
• Sides and rear: insulated Polar Wall vinyl (Norandex). The larger side and rear elevations got Polar Wall, an insulated vinyl. Because it’s insulated rather than standard vinyl, it’s a meaningfully higher-value product that adds durability and performance across the biggest areas of the home, with low maintenance.
• Entry accents: Versetta Stone. Stacked-stone accents at the entry add dimension and a high-end feel right where visitors arrive.
  
  

The result puts the premium finish where it shows most, while upgrading the whole envelope with a durable, insulated product, a smart way to balance appearance and budget without cutting corners on performance.

Why mixing materials works

Combining materials isn’t about saving money by going cheap in back. It’s about matching the right product to the right role. A prefinished product like Diamond Kote shines on a prominent front elevation. An insulated vinyl like Polar Wall delivers durability and added value across large side and rear walls. Stone accents add character at the entry. Coordinated by one contractor, the three read as a single, cohesive exterior rather than a patchwork.

What an exterior remodel like this involves

A project like this isn’t just new siding. It included removing the old material, inspecting what was underneath, installing three coordinated siding systems, and finishing the details (soffit, fascia, and trim) so everything ties together. Running it as one coordinated project kept the elevations consistent and the timeline on track.

What should an exterior remodel estimate include?

If you’re planning a similar project, a clear written estimate should spell out the scope by elevation, the specific materials for each area, the trim/soffit/fascia work, how unforeseen conditions (like damaged sheathing) would be handled, the warranty, and cleanup. When each material and area is spelled out, you know exactly what you’re getting, and can compare proposals fairly.

The result

A dated exterior became a cohesive, upgraded home: premium curb appeal in front, durable insulated performance all around, and stone accents that elevate the entry. One coordinated project, three materials, one cohesive look.

frequently asked questions

Thinking about your own exterior remodel?

Whether you want a full transformation or a single-material refresh, we’ll walk you through the options that fit your home and budget.

Request a free siding or exterior estimate for your Twin Cities home.