Vinyl Siding vs. Fiber Cement Siding: Choosing the Best Option for Your Home

Getting new siding for your home is an exciting proposition. Very few home improvement projects on the exterior of your home can add more of a wow factor than replacement siding.

However, many homeowners experience decision paralysis when choosing between vinyl and fiber cement siding. Of the many siding varieties, these two choices are among the most popular. On the one hand, you can have affordable, highly durable siding. On the other hand, you can have a more premium option with more colors and styles.

Still, Five Star Contractors is here to help you wrestle with the decision between vinyl siding vs. fiber cement siding. Choosing between vinyl and fiber cement siding doesn’t need to be challenging with us in your corner. Let’s get to work!

Siding Materials Comparison

Fiber cement and vinyl siding are two heavyweights in the home improvement world in the battle for siding supremacy. Vinyl siding is one of the most common siding varieties, while fiber cement siding is considered a high-quality option.

Still, it’s nice to have options when choosing the next siding for your home. Let’s break things down further to help you understand the choices.

Vinyl Siding

Vinyl siding has been a trusted siding material for many decades. Homeowners seeking a material that is easy to install and maintain have relied on vinyl as their siding of choice.

Pros and Cons of Vinyl Siding

Those exploring vinyl siding benefits quickly find plenty of reasons to use it for their next siding option.

Perhaps the most significant benefit of choosing vinyl siding over other siding varieties is the price. Because of its ubiquity, vinyl is the most affordable siding option. Homeowners have saved thousands of dollars in costs for different home improvement projects using vinyl.

However, when many people hear a material is affordable, they quickly judge it as a lower-quality product. That’s not the case with vinyl siding. Vinyl is a durable product engineered and tested to withstand the harshest temperatures and climates. It can withstand rotting, warping, moisture damage, and other types of deterioration.

With all the pros, there are many reasons not to choose vinyl over other siding materials.

Vinyl is not a material that lends well to painting, so choosing a color in the beginning is vital. If you painted your vinyl, you could run into chipping and peeling issues, making the product look unkempt.

If you choose vinyl, make sure you’ve chosen a high-quality vinyl. Vinyl does have issues with fading over time. You try standing out in the sun all day and see what happens to you!

Despite the negatives, vinyl is still a reliable option for homeowners seeking an instant aesthetic upgrade for their homes.

Fiber Cement Siding

Fiber cement siding has quickly become a beloved option in siding materials. Because of its construction and engineering, it’s known as a top-tier product that can resist more damage over time than vinyl.

Pros and Cons of Fiber Cement Siding

If you’re seeking fiber cement siding advantages, know that there are plenty of reasons to fall in love with this siding material.

Firstly, fiber cement can make old houses look new again with a bevy of styles and color options. Fiber cement can also mimic the look of more traditional materials like wood, giving you a more durable option.

Fiber cement’s durability is also a significant reason to invest in the product. Because it’s an engineered material, fiber cement can withstand harsh environmental conditions and is fire resistant.

This material can also aid in the battle against pests. It provides near-total protection against vermin and insects. Now, that’s the shielding you want for your home.

Now, if you’re looking for the negatives against fiber cement siding, you need to know immediately that it is a pricier material.

On top of that, labor costs for fiber cement siding can be more expensive. Don’t be surprised you see higher labor prices if you get a fiber cement estimate.

You may also need to paint your siding every few years. Fiber cement is known for fading slowly over time, so get ready to have a professional painter handle this issue.  

Energy Efficiency of Vinyl vs. Fiber Cement Siding

Energy costs will continue rising for the foreseeable future. But what can vinyl or fiber cement siding do to help?

Here is where vinyl siding can be considered the king. Many siding companies offer an insulated type of vinyl siding that includes a layer of foam that adds a higher R-value to the product. As a result, homeowners with insulated vinyl will have lower energy costs.

Maintenance Requirements of Vinyl and Fiber Cement Siding

Vinyl siding is low maintenance but needs occasional washing with soap and water. Fiber cement siding requires more care through annual inspections, periodic painting, and sealing to prevent moisture damage. Both materials are durable, but fiber cement demands more attention to ensure longevity and aesthetic appeal.

Cost Comparison of Siding Materials

Vinyl siding typically costs around $2-$7 per square foot, including installation. Fiber cement siding is pricier at $5-$13 per square foot. While fiber cement offers enhanced durability and fire resistance, vinyl’s lower cost and minimal upkeep make it an attractive option for cost-conscious consumers.

Make a Siding Choice with Five Star Contractors

Of all your siding options, working with Five Star Contractors is the easiest option! With our experience and customer service abilities, Five Star Contractors can make your next home improvement project fun and exciting. We’re your new friends if you need a third party to help you settle the vinyl siding vs. fiber cement siding debate! Contact us today to learn how we can help.