When it’s time to side your home, you have many options from which to choose. The two most popular options for long-lasting effectiveness are vinyl and fiber cement. Each brings its own positives and negatives to the table. The one that’s right for you will depend on your climate, house style, budget, preference, lifestyle, and maintenance wishes.
Here’s a quick recap of the composition of each:
- Fiber-cement siding results from a blend of wood pulp and Portland cement. The mixture can be formed and hardened into long boards that attach directly to the home using nails.
- Vinyl siding is made of PVC, attached to the exterior in such a manner that it will be able to expand and contract with extreme temperatures. Vinyl is the most common type of siding.
Let’s review the features of each material, both of which should only be installed by qualified siding contractors.
Energy Efficiency
Both: Vinyl and fiber cement are relatively thin and thus they aren’t very good insulators on their own. They are both effective at protecting a house from the elements.
Vinyl: Because you can choose an insulated version for more consistent interior comfort and reduced energy bills, vinyl jumps ahead in the pro column in terms of energy efficiency. That’s because insulated vinyl brings up the insulating ability (also known as the R-value) of your walls, blanketing the studs. As such, vinyl helps with thermal bridging and ensures you remain cooler in summer because it blocks the sun’s heat.
Strength
Fiber cement: This is the leader in terms of strength and durability. That’s due to its composition of cement-like materials and wood fibers, which make it stronger than vinyl. Also, it’s not as vulnerable to wind or weather damage, and won’t melt, burn, or warp when exposed to heat, which is a risk with vinyl.
Fiber cement may last up to 50 years with proper care, while vinyl can last between 20 and 40 years provided it’s high in quality and is maintained well.
Texture
Fiber cement: This material most closely resembles the authentic texture of real wood or stone, so if you want a textured look to your exteriors, fiber cement is the way to go.
Vinyl: This material is available in a textured version resembling a wood grain, but the most common form of vinyl is a smooth finish. This tends to look more manufactured than fiber cement does.
Pricing
Vinyl: Initially, vinyl costs less than fiber cement.
Fiber cement: This material lasts longer than vinyl, so you will get more out of your investment.
Advantages: Fiber Cement
Here’s a quick rundown of the pros of fiber cement siding:
- Many types of trim and accessories to choose from
- Resistance to fire, rain, wind, and insects
- Environmentally friendly
- Rugged, durable surface
- Wide selection of colors and designs
- Technologically-advanced materials
- Adds beauty and value to exteriors
- Good for color durability and fade resistance
- No fading or flaking
- Moisture resistant
- Traditional look of natural wood siding with no vulnerability to rot
- Available in smooth or wood-grain finishes
- Available in four- to 12-inch widths
- Great in all climates
- Resists salt air and high humidity
Advantages of Vinyl Siding
Vinyl siding also earns high marks for the following reasons:
- Affordable
- Retains lasting color
- Low in maintenance
- Easy to clean
- Mildew and mold resistance
- Won’t rot
- Enhances curb appeal
- Wide selection of colors, styles, trim, and accessories
- Durable
- Easy to install
When it comes right down to it, you just have to do your homework and make comparisons between the two to decide on the right option for you and your home.
Contact Allstar Construction for Siding Installation
If you’re still not sure which siding type you should choose, call our roofing contractors or complete our form for an online quote and consultation. We can show you samples of each, in a variety of colors, styles, and textures, and can advise you on the best material for your home, budget, and needs.
