Vinyl Siding vs. Fiber Cement: Why We Choose Fiber Cement
Fiber cement proves to be a better siding choice over vinyl due to its durability and high returns in investment. It can make your home’s exterior have a more natural feel for ages. To make you understand why fiber cement is superior to vinyl as a siding material, here’s a detailed guide:
Sidings made of fiber cement are often referred to as “Hardie board” or “Hardiplank” to reflect the popular fiber cement siding brand, James Hardie. The planks mimic the appearance of traditional wood siding, thus an excellent choice for Seattle Washington historic homes. You can also install them in the same way as wood siding.
On the other hand, vinyl (made from PVC) is a firm plastic material that can contract and expand as the surrounding temperatures change. It’s lighter than fiber cement and a cheaper alternative to siding in residential properties. Unlike fiber cement siding, vinyl sidings are securely fixed with an underlayment on the wall to allow them to contract and expand.
Siding Thickness And Texture
Vinyl sidings are thinner than fiber cement ones since they are 0.040 to 0.046-inch thick. They are about 2 ½ times smaller in thickness than fiber cement sidings. Once installed with insulation or foam sheathing, it’s quite difficult to tell the siding’s total thickness.
Since sidings made of fiber cement are thicker, they have a deep texture compared to vinyl ones. Their thickness also allows them to have a uniform embossing that adds curb appeal to your home.
Vinyl sidings are too thin to have a deep texture found on fiber cement sidings. They have a smooth, artificial feel that wouldn’t be ideal for a historic home.
Sidings made of PVC are more prone to extreme heat and fire than those made of fiber cement. Though manufacturers may treat them with fire retardants, they can still catch fire. The sidings can easily warp when exposed to heat and pose put your home at risk of damage.
James Hardie fiber cement planks are ideal for exteriors if you live in an area that’s prone to wildfires. You can also install them on walls lying next to a barbecue grill without worrying about damage. On the other hand, vinyl sidings melt when exposed to concentrated light from window panes or mirrors.
Vinyl siding costs are quite affordable than those of fiber cement planks. However, a house with this type of siding will have a lower resale value.
Fiber cement sidings are ideal for remodeling projects since they have a higher return on investment. You’ll recoup the money spent on buying and installing the planks when selling your home. That’s because most buyers’ interests are in homes with natural-looking upgrades over artificial ones.
Remodeling a historic home with vinyl sidings may be a bad idea if you’re planning to sell it. Buyers prefer a historic home with accurate building materials. Vinyl may even be seen as a cheap, inferior siding choice by potential buyers who would undervalue your property.
Fiber cement planks don’t melt or warp when subjected to extreme conditions, unlike vinyl ones. They can withstand pressure and resist UV light, fire, and water.
Vinyl and cedar siding can easily tear up when hit with a shovel or lawnmower. They can also crack in low temperatures and warp in extremely high temperatures. You can’t have them near your barbecue grill or areas around your house with high heat.
Most architects recommend this type of siding since it holds down siding costs without compromising your home’s aesthetics. Vinyl sidings may give you the look and feel of a modern home, but they can’t protect your exterior walls from damage. While it may be tempting to go for a cheaper siding option (vinyl), your home risks having a low resale value.
Get A Fiber Cement Siding Installed Today
Count on KV Construction for home improvements, windows, and siding installation in Seattle WA. We use high-quality siding products sourced from James Hardie Siding with product and workmanship warranties. Be sure to schedule a siding installation with us today.