Beauty is in the eye of the beholder. It’s a statement that can be agreed upon by many homeowners around the US. The look of your residence depends on many factors, like landscaping, colors, shingles, and even the decision between vinyl siding or fiber cement. You want something that is going to look amazing but also fits within your budget.

That’s why A & B Vinyl Siding Contractors have come up with a guide to help you choose between vinyl siding and fiber cement siding, the two most popular choices available for your home.

What is Fiber Cement?

Based on the popular brand manufactured by James Hardie, Hardie board or Hardiplank is also known by the generic name of fiber cement. The planks are made from a mixture of sand, Portland cement, and natural wood fibers that can give it a wide range of patterns and looks. Fiber cement is attached directly to a house with nails.

Fiber cement can resemble stone, wood, cedar shingles, wood shake siding, and logs convincingly. The thickness of the cement aids in the imagery.

Visual Appeal

Both types of siding come with innumerable options. The color varieties for both fiber cement and vinyl are endless. You are sure to get the color you want; and even if you can’t get the color you want, both materials can be painted without problems.

Fiber cement tends to fade with time. You will have to repaint the surface every 5-10 years to keep the vibrancy of the color. Periodic caulking is also required to prevent rot and moisture damage. This preventative maintenance can become time-consuming and costly.

Installation

Fiber cement is a heavy material that can be difficult to handle. One hundred square feet of Hardiplank weighs about 300 pounds, while vinyl siding of the same amount weighs only about 65 pounds. Fiber cement can break easily if not handled correctly. Because of this, professionals are required to install fiber cement correctly.

Environmental

For those who are concerned about the environment and saving money on their utility bills, fiber cement could be the better choice. Unlike vinyl siding which is made from PVC plastic, fiber cement comes from natural sources and is inert—meaning it won’t give off harmful chemicals. PVC, if burned, releases poisonous dioxins.

Both types of siding are efficient at keeping heat, cold, and the elements from affecting the interior of your home. You might think that because vinyl is thinner, it would be worse at insulating your house than fiber cement.

Durability and Maintenance

One factor you should prioritize when determining the best siding option for you is durability, and to a lesser extent, longevity of the purchase. You want to know that you’re getting your money’s worth.

1. Stand up strongly to fire, harsh and extreme weather conditions. Fiber cement is also mold, rot, and pest resistant.
2. Hardiplank is thick, with the average being around 5/16 of an inch to ¼ of an inch.
3. The only disadvantage is that fiber cement can crack during settling and installation.
4. Comes with a warranty that lasts 30-50 years. Hardie board has a peeling and paint warranty of 15 years.
5. Can be power washed.
6. With proper care and upkeep, fiber cement can last for 100 years.
7. Requires repainting and re-caulking every 5-10 years