When durability is the main priority with a new siding project a foam-backed siding is the answer.  This family had wood siding that was getting weathered and beaten up by woodpeckers; we replaced the siding with a foam-backed vinyl siding in a Dutchlap style.  The contrasting corner pieces and trims help the color of the siding really pop.  The custom-built flower boxes were wrapped in aluminum to make them maintenance free for the homeowner.