Fiber cement and vinyl are some of the most popular siding options in America today. They share many desirable qualities; they both emulate the look of authentic timber and require little maintenance for years. Vinyl has the upper hand, however, when it comes to popularity because it’s the most economical material on the market. In most cases, the minimum you expect to pay for fiber cement siding is the maximum for vinyl.
Still, vinyl’s edge in affordability doesn’t necessarily make it the cost-effective choice. If you look at the bigger picture, fiber cement is the better replacement siding material because it’s:
More Realistic as a Wood Alternative
Most home improvement experts, including Twin Cities Siding & Roofing, would attest that fiber cement replicates the appearance of genuine wood better than vinyl does. The former has superior thickness, allowing it to have deeper grooves and better mimic wood-grain textures.
On the other hand, vinyl looks like a cheap knock-off of wood on closer inspection. If you’re aiming for a classic look, you’re less likely to achieve your goal with vinyl.
More Resistant to Fire
Fiber cement is one of the few siding options that resists fire. As a non-combustible material, it won’t go up in flames and is impervious to extreme heat.
In comparison, vinyl melts in response to high temperatures. It can severely warp even when a neighboring burning house is up to 60 feet away. Sometimes, even the reflection of solar heat off energy-efficient windows can noticeably deform vinyl siding.
More Durable
Unlike vinyl, fiber cement won’t crack from the elements. It can withstand extreme conditions and preserve its structural integrity for a longer period.
In fact, James Hardie® siding products come with a 30-year, non-prorated, transferable warranty. And if you hire Twin Cities Siding & Roofing for your project, you can benefit from our own 10-year workmanship guarantee.
Vinyl may cost less, but the intangibles fiber cement provides are priceless. To talk about your needs and learn about our financing options, call us at (651) 571-9557 today for your FREE, in-home estimate in St. Paul.
