Should I Choose Fiber Cement or Vinyl Siding?

“Which siding is right for me?” If you’re looking into types of siding, congratulations! You’re at one of the most fun stages of your exterior remodel. Fiber cement, vinyl, and other types of siding all make a massive difference in the appearance and long-term value of your home. 

Your siding selection is a great way to express your style while investing in protection for your exterior. Fiber cement siding and vinyl siding are two of the most popular choices for Pennsylvania homeowners. As Southeastern Pennsylvania’s premier exterior remodeling company, the experts at MHX can weigh in.

Read on to learn the differences between fiber cement siding and vinyl siding…and decide which is right for you.

What is Fiber Cement Siding?

Fiber cement siding combines the durability of cement with cellulose (wood) fibers to create a stunning siding material. While fiber cement siding mimics the appearance of authentic wood, it lasts much longer. With rock-solid durability, it’s hard to beat fiber cement siding for value and strength.

Here at MHX Designs, we’re proud to offer James Hardie fiber cement siding to our customers. James Hardie invented fiber cement siding, and years later, they’re unsurpassed as the leading fiber cement siding brand. With years of experience in Southeastern Pennsylvania, the experts at MHX Designs know nothing stands up better to our chilly winters and hot summers.

Pros of James Hardie Fiber Cement Siding

• It’s resistant to fire, mold, and pests. Talk about hardwearing!
• Who has time to spend hours on siding upkeep? James Hardie siding is extremely low-maintenance. A light wash with a garden hose now and then is all that’s needed to keep it in great condition. Learn more about how to clean James Hardie fiber cement siding here.
• There are numerous colors and styles available! You’re sure to find a siding style that suits your preferences. Whether you’re a traditionalist or you prefer a sleek, modern look, there’s a James Hardie siding option for you. Here are just a few style options James Hardie offers:
  • HardiePlank® Lap Siding
  • HardieShingle® Siding
  • HardiePanel® Vertical Siding
  • HardieTrim® Boards
• There are energy-efficient, insulated options available. Who doesn’t love saving on their utility bill each month? With James Hardie siding, you can seal in the air you’re paying to heat and cool effortlessly.

Cons of James Hardie Fiber Cement Siding

• James Hardie siding is on the pricier side. On average, it costs around $5 – $12 per square foot. But here’s why we’re such big fans of James Hardie: you can anticipate a serious return on your investment. With an average of an 84% return on investment when your James Hardie house goes up for sale, a fiber cement siding remodel is a remarkable way to transform your home and up your resale value.

Did You Know?

• James Hardie was awarded the title of best product for ROI for 12 years by Remodeling Magazine.

The Bottom Line

If you’re in the market for an exceptional investment product that will increase your home’s resale value, James Hardie fiber cement siding is the way to go. 

What is Vinyl Siding?

Vinyl siding is made of plastic, and usually imitates the look of classic wood siding, though other varieties exist.

Pros of Vinyl Siding

• For those on a shoestring budget, vinyl siding is hard to beat. According to The Spruce, 24 pieces of 4 1/2-inch by 145-inch ship lap horizontal vinyl siding will cost around $150 to $200.
• No muss, no fuss, no extra paint. Vinyl siding comes with the color baked in and running all the way through the product. If you’re absolutely certain you’ll never want to paint your home’s exterior, this may appeal to you.
• Like fiber cement siding, vinyl siding is relatively low-maintenance. A low-pressure hose works just fine to rinse away dust, dirt and cobwebs. Your trusty garden hose will work perfectly.

Cons of Vinyl Siding

• Vinyl siding can lower your home’s value significantly. Most vinyl siding lasts for a decade to 15 years, and potential home buyers often consider an impending siding remodel a serious negative when they’re looking to purchase. Be especially wary of vinyl siding if you have a historic home. Anything not in keeping with your home’s architectural integrity will send your home’s resale value plummeting.
• Vinyl siding doesn’t do the best job of keeping out moisture, which is exactly what siding is designed to do. Breathable fiber cement siding allows vapor to escape in the winter. Vinyl siding keeps moisture in your exterior walls, inviting in pests and unhealthy rot.
• Vinyl siding is one of the least environmentally friendly siding options on the market. Because it’s mostly composed of PVC plastic, engineers produce lots of greenhouse gases during the manufacturing process. Plus, vinyl siding is notoriously difficult to recycle. Most recycling centers will not accept it.

The Bottom Line

If you’re looking for a budget-friendly option that will last for over a decade and less than 20 years, vinyl siding might be a great option for you.

Trust Your Siding Remodel to MHX Designs

Here at MHX Designs, we specialize in siding remodels that wow. With hundreds of successful siding remodels and just as many five-star reviews under our belt, we have the expertise to help you bring your dream exterior to life. 

Want to learn more about our siding remodels? Check out our FAQ page!

You can call us at (888)-944-6493 or reach out through our website’s contact form. Let’s create something beautiful together!