We bought a 5 acre property and have the floor plan figured out but still have many other aspects to iron out before the builder can get started.

One area that we need to decide on is what materials to use for the exterior. I am leaning towards brick or rock or fake rock siding on some parts (mainly the lower part) and possibly board and batten vinyl siding or vinyl shakes type siding.

I am curious if any of you have knowledge of the fake rock and vinyl shake type siding in particular. Are there quality products available? Anything good to consider or should we steer clear?