Siding Material Comparison
Are you looking to replace your home’s exterior? Vinyl Siding and Fiber Cement Siding are the two most popular options. But which one is right for you?
The siding of a house is one of the most important aspects of the structure. It can be difficult to select the most appropriate siding. When making a decision, there are various things to consider, such as; durability, wearability, a distinct appearance, and cost-effectiveness. Because of this, determining which style of siding is most appropriate for your home becomes more complicated.
Keep reading to learn more on which is better between the two types of siding, Vinyl Siding vs. Fiber Siding, based on the materials used and the features they offer.
Vinyl Siding Material
Vinyl siding is one of the most affordable options, and it comes in a range of colors and profiles to match your home’s needs. Vinyl is a synthetic substance composed of polyvinyl chloride (PVC) that is durable, low-maintenance, and long-lasting.
Vinyl siding is also easy to install and replace since it is lightweight and moldable. It is resistant to hail and other roadside debris, and regular inspections for damage or wear can increase the life of this type of siding.
Fiber Cement Siding Material
Fiber cement siding is made using Portland cement, sand, cellulose fibers, or cotton linters. It comes with a steeper cost than vinyl siding since it is more expensive to manufacture, but it is also highly durable and long-lasting.
Fiber cement is also one of the most durable materials available for exterior applications. This siding will provide your home with the look of wood without having to deal with problems like rot, insects, and mildew.
Siding Features Comparison: Vinyl Siding vs. Fiber Cement Siding
Durability
Vinyl sheet is not as strong and durable as fiber cement. Fiber cement has high durability in extreme weather conditions, does not break or crack over time, and can last up to 40 years or more.
Fiber cement siding lasts longer than vinyl siding and is more resistant to insects since it is constructed of natural materials and does not come into touch with the soil. As a result, it is the ideal option in locations with harsh winter or summer temperatures.
Cost-Effectiveness
Vinyl siding has a lifespan of around 20 to 40 years before it has to be repaired or replaced. However, unless it has been damaged by harsh weather conditions such as heat, cold, rain, or hail, fiber cement will often endure for more than 30 to 50 years without needing to be repaired or replaced.
Though homeowners often choose vinyl because of its low cost compared to fiber cement. The energy efficiency of vinyl siding, on the other hand, is very poor; in fact, it is nearly two times less efficient than fiber cement siding. As a result, vinyl siding requires additional insulation to adequately protect your home from rising energy expenditures.
Wearability
Both vinyl and fiber cement have similar wearability, but fiber cement siding is more resistant to wear and tear than vinyl. It does not warp, fade, or dent easily and is less likely to crack as a result of freezing temperatures. As such, it won’t need a replacement for many years and can be maintained easily.
On the other hand, vinyl siding tends to become brittle and crack under abrasive conditions where fiber cement is more resistant, especially after it has been painted, improperly installed, or used low-quality material. The paint on vinyl can wear off, exposing the material underneath, which can be unsightly over time.
Distinct Look
The two materials also differ in appearance. Vinyl siding has a lighter appearance and is more reflective, resulting in a different look than fiber cement. It is available with specific finishes that mimic wood or stone for an added layer of control of the look of your house.
Fiber cement tends to have a flatter, solid color that does not reflect as much light as vinyl. It also comes in lighter colors which work better for those who want their home to blend into the neighborhood. However, Fiber cement siding comes with a natural look that can’t be matched by vinyl. It is rich-looking and does not emit the same plastic-like feel as vinyl.
Maintenance
Both materials necessitate maintenance but in different ways. Vinyl may be less expensive, but it has a shorter lifespan and will require maintenance and frequent replacement, as well as regular painting, to keep it looking new.
Fiber cement, on the other hand, only needs to be cleaned on a regular basis to prevent dirt buildup. It also has a more significant insulation effect and is more sturdy and durable, making it more resistant over time.
How to Choose Between Vinyl and Fiber Cement Siding?
Depending on the homeowner’s preference, each material has its own set of pros and cons. Fiber cement siding is a better choice in terms of long-term value for your money based on durability, cost-effectiveness, wearability, distinct look, and maintenance requirements. It is also considered green material because it uses all-natural materials and does not emit toxic fumes or pollutants.
However, vinyl still deserves credit for its impressive market share and its benefits, including the affordable cost per square foot. Installation is also easier with vinyl siding than fiber cement which requires more knowledge and special tools. Vinyl also comes in more colors and patterns, giving homeowners more choices for their home exterior.
Conclusion
By learning about the benefits of each option, you are closer to making the right decision on what kind of siding works best for your home. Both materials offer amazing benefits and can even be used in combination with each other if desired.
Some homeowners choose to install both materials on different sides of their house to get the look they want while still taking advantage of each material’s benefits. Choosing one over the other is ultimately up to you, but make sure you weigh all your options before making a final decision.
If you’re not sure which material is best for your home. Seeking the assistance of trustworthy specialists like siding contractors who can aid with exterior remodeling and restoration projects is quite beneficial and can make the process convenient and easier to manage.