I have a 40's Cape Cod w/ original siding in need of either extensive repair, new insulation & paint; or, all new siding & insulation, etc. My first choice would be to replace the siding w/ Hardie, but I can't afford it. I strongly dislike the look of horizontal vinyl siding, even the high quality jobs. But I do like the samples I've see of vinyl shingles. To my eye, they look more like the real thing than the horizontal boards do. They're more substantial and create a crisper profile. I'd be OK settling for vinyl if I could do the entire house (not just a gable or dormer) in vinyl shingle siding. Just looking for anyone w/ experience in using all vinyl shingles to side a house and whether or not there are any drawback aestheitcally or otherwise.

There is no drawback to using vinyl shingles. These come in panels with sizes that varies with each manufacture. Be sure to be sitting down when checking the prices. As these are very expensive as well. The more expensive ones would need to be used if your planning to do the whole house as the cheeper ones will look just that, Cheep. Have you considered using both lap type vinyl siding with the shingle siding along the top gabel ends of the house. Gives it sort of a gingerbread house look. With proper trims around windows and doors your house can look quite nice.