Choosing the Right CertainTeed Horizontal Siding: Encore, MainStreet, or Monogram
- Staff
- Aug 12
- 3 min read
When it comes to vinyl siding, CertainTeed is one of the most trusted names in the industry. If you’re shopping for horizontal vinyl siding, you’ll likely come across their three main product lines: Encore, MainStreet, and Monogram.
At first glance, they may look similar. All three have CertainTeed’s PermaColor™ Lifetime Fade Protection, meaning the color will last for decades without excessive fading. The real difference comes down to panel thickness—and that difference affects rigidity, appearance, and durability, along with cost.
Model | Panel Thickness | Color & Finish Details | Typical Added Cost vs. Previous Tier | Key Takeaways |
Encore | ~0.040″ | PermaColor™ fade-resistant colors; 13 low-gloss woodgrain finishes | Base price | Entry-level thickness; more prone to waviness and punctures. Best only if budget is very tight. |
MainStreet | ~0.042″ | PermaColor™; 24 colors in woodgrain or brushed finishes | $1,000–$2,000 more than Encore | Mid-grade siding; most common choice for homes. Can still show waviness in darker colors. |
Monogram | ~0.046″ | PermaColor™; up to 40 colors, including deep shades, blends, and rich woodgrain textures | $2,500–$4,500 more than MainStreet | Premium grade with the straightest, most rigid appearance. Minimal risk of oil-canning. |
Monogram XL | ~0.046″ | Same as Monogram, but in longer lengths (16′, 20′, 25′) with 17 colors options | $1,000 - $3,000 more than standard Monogram | Premium look with fewer seams. Ideal for large walls. |
Encore – Construction Grade Siding
Encore is the entry-level option. Best for new construction or extremely tight budgets.
Pros: Still has PermaColor™ fade protection; plenty of color choices.
Cons: Thinnest of the three lines, more prone to oil-canning (ripples) and punctures. Dark colors in direct sunlight will show more waviness. Colors are somewhat limited.
Bottom line: If you really need to save around $1,000 compared to MainStreet, Encore works. Otherwise, it’s worth stepping up.
MainStreet – The Most Common Choice
MainStreet is the mid-grade CertainTeed siding. Best for most residential projects looking for balance between cost and performance.
Pros: Slightly thicker (~0.042″), still affordable, and available in a wide range of colors and finishes.Cons: Can still show waviness in darker colors exposed to strong sunlight. Proper installation is critical to reduce oil-canning.
Cost difference: Typically $1,000 to $2,000 more than Encore for a standard replacement job.
Bottom line: The go-to choice for many homes. A solid step up from Encore without the price jump to premium.
Monogram – Premium Performance
Monogram is CertainTeed’s premium horizontal siding line. Best for homeowners who want the straightest, strongest siding with the richest color options.
Pros: Thickest panels (~0.046″), highest rigidity, best resistance to oil-canning. Up to 40 colors, including blends and bold tones.
Cost difference: Usually $2,500 to $4,500 more than MainStreet for a typical replacement.
Bottom line: The extra investment pays off with a straighter, more durable look that lasts.
Monogram XL – Premium, With Fewer Seams
Monogram XL offers the same quality as standard Monogram, but in longer panel lengths than the standard 12' (16′, 20′, 25′). Best for large walls where minimizing seams improves appearance.
Pros: Same premium thickness and performance, fewer seams for a cleaner look.
Cons: More limited color options than standard Monogram (17 vs 40).
Bottom line: Perfect for high-end projects where a flawless, continuous appearance matters.
Why Thickness Matters
Rigidity – Thicker siding stays straighter and resists bending or warping.
Impact Resistance – Stronger panels withstand hail, windborne debris, and everyday bumps.
Appearance – Less oil-canning and a sharper, more uniform finish.
Longevity – Thicker siding maintains its look and shape for decades.
Final Recommendation
If you absolutely must minimize costs, Encore will do the job—without sacrificing fade protection—but expect more waviness over time. MainStreet is the most common choice for good reason: solid performance, a wide range of colors, and fair pricing.
If you want the best look, longest life, and strongest panels, go with Monogram or Monogram XL. The added investment now will reward you with straighter lines, fewer seams, and better long-term curb appeal.
In the market for new siding? If you live within our service area and want a free consultation about how to maximize your siding replacement project and really stand out from your neighbors, give us a call at (877) 846-9566 or fill out the form below to get started. You can also schedule your free inspection or estimate online.
