One of the many decisions to make when building or remodeling a home is which house siding to use. Most homeowners usually start with big ideas only to be hit by reality that cost would be the biggest factor on how they decide which material to go with.
When it comes time to replace your exterior siding, many homeowners can be confused by the different choices. The most popular choice in siding in many parts of the country is vinyl because it is cheap to source and install.
However, when you look at longevity, maintenance, and long-term costs, vinyl siding may not be the best option. We at PSC almost always recommend James Hardie fiber cement siding (Hardieboard) over vinyl as the best choice for homes in the Bay area. When you look at other factors besides short-term outlay, it’s a clear winner.
To help you understand why HardieBoard is our siding of choice, we have come up with this guide to compare the two options:
Choosing House Siding: Vinyl Siding vs James Hardie Siding
Created as an alternative to aluminum siding, vinyl siding is made from polyvinyl chloride, or PVC plastic. In the U.S. it is found on twice as many homes compared to any other siding material.
Introduced by James Hardie in the 1980s, fiber cement siding is commonly known as HardieBoard, and it comes in planks, shingles, or panels. HardieBoard is composed of cement reinforced with cellulose fibers.
Vinyl vs HardieBoard: A Side-By-Side Comparison
Invest in Quality, Durability, and Visual Appeal
Ultimately, even though James Hardie fiber cement siding will cost a bit more on initial installation, we often recommend it because its longevity, durability, and superior protection for your home will make up the difference. In addition, HardieBoard adds beautiful real-wood look to the exterior of your home, greatly increasing the curb appeal and overall value of your home.
If you’re confused about whether you should choose vinyl or fiber cement siding, give us a call. Our experts are available to answer any questions you may have, and we’d love to hear from you. Contact us today!