Converting from traditional aluminum siding to smooth skins?

I very well may just keep the current siding... I just like the looks of the smooth siding so figured I'd ask.

If I did it, I would probably go with 1/4" ply with the seams glassed/doweled and several coats of a high grade epoxy.. then paint. Would still be expensive.. but cheaper then buying panels I'd say.

This all depends on how easy the aluminum comes off.