Why More Homeowners Are Replacing Vinyl with Fiber Cement Siding
Vinyl and fiber cement are two of the most popular siding choices for homes. While both options can help enhance curb appeal and energy efficiency, there are key differences that have many of today’s homeowners upgrading their vinyl to fiber cement.
What’s the difference between vinyl and fiber cement siding?
Pros and Cons of Vinyl Siding:
Vinyl siding originally gained popularity among homeowners as a cost-effective and low maintenance option. Traditional vinyl siding comes in a variety of colors and can be upgraded with insulation to improve energy efficiency.
While economical and easy to install, vinyl siding is easily damaged and prone to fading or cracking from extreme temperatures and UV rays. Vinyl siding can even melt onto walls in temperatures over 90 degrees. Consistent color matching can also be difficult when replacing siding that has faded over time. Even siding that appears to be the same color can vary in shade when ordered through different suppliers.
Pros and Cons of Fiber Cement Siding:
Fiber cement siding, also commonly referred to as James Hardie® siding, is made of a mix of cement, wood pulp, and sand. This type of siding is more expensive than vinyl, but also significantly more durable. It can stand up to the harshest weather conditions, making it an ideal choice for homes in the northwestern U.S.
Homeowners choosing to upgrade to fiber cement siding are able to get a look they love with the benefits of increased fire resistance and added protection against the elements. Unlike vinyl, fiber cement won’t melt or release toxic fumes when exposed to extreme heat. Fiber cement siding is also denser than vinyl, giving it stronger insulative properties in cold weather climates.
Fiber cement siding comes in a variety of custom colors and textures, including wood planks, stucco panels, and shingles. Manufacturers often paint this type of siding in-house, or post-installation, guaranteeing a perfect color match every time.
While fiber cement siding does require a bit more maintenance than vinyl, upkeep can be reduced by selecting a high-quality product that resists peeling, chipping, and fading. Fiber cement siding products also typically come with longer manufacturer warranties than vinyl.
Vinyl vs. Fiber Cement Siding:
| Attribute | Vinyl | Fiber Cement |
| Curb Appeal | Available in many colors and styles. Has a plastic look and feel. | Made of premium materials with a natural wood-like look. Can be painted in any color. |
| Durability | Prone to fading, warping, and cracking. | Extremely durable. Weather and fire resistant. |
| Maintenance | Lower maintenance, periodic cleaning. | Moderate maintenance, periodic repainting, and caulking. |
| Installation | Light, easy to install | Heavy, requires specialized tools and certified installers |
| Expected Lifetime | 20-30 years | 30-50+ years |
| Cost | Lower cost installation | Higher cost installation |
Homeowners are increasingly turning to fiber cement for its aesthetic appeal, energy efficiency, eco-friendliness and longevity over vinyl. Some of the primary areas in which fiber cement siding proves superior to vinyl, include:
Curb Appeal
The overall finish of fiber cement siding mimics authentic wood and offers a higher end feel than vinyl. Homeowners looking to increase the future resale value of their home often chose fiber cement to make their homes more attractive to potential buyers.
Durability
For areas with heavy rainfall of high humidity, fiber cement siding offers excellent protection against the elements. The dense makeup of fiber cement siding allows it to repel moisture and keep out pests better than vinyl.
For safety-minded homeowners, fiber cement siding is also naturally fire-resistant and less flammable than vinyl siding, making it an ideal choice.
Eco-friendliness
The cellulose or wood pulp used in making fiber cement siding is both more energy efficient and environmentally friendly than plastic-based vinyl. Crafted from eco-friendly and sustainable materials, fiber cement siding has a lower environmental impact than vinyl siding. Its production isn’t reliant on fossil fuels, and fiber cement doesn’t emit volatile organic compounds (VOCs) into the air.
Lifetime Value
Although material costs and installation expenses are higher, fiber cement offers a stronger value and has a longer expected lifetime than vinyl siding. While vinyl siding often begins to show signs of wear in as little as 10 years, many fiber cement manufacturers offer warranties of 30 years or more.
For these reasons, fiber cement siding is quickly becoming the upgrade of choice for property owners. If you’re a homeowner in Bothell, WA looking for expert high-quality siding and home exterior services contact us today for a free quote. Our skilled team delivers professional, trustworthy, and budget-friendly solutions.