Here at E.M. Snow Inc we offer two kinds of siding: James Hardie’s Fiber Cement siding, and CertainTeed’s Vinyl siding. If it’s time to replace your siding, you may be comparing your options, but are still unsure of which one you should use for your home. Both kinds of siding offer distinct advantages over one another, and this guide will help you explore which option is best for your needs!
Fiber Cement Siding
When it comes to customization, there are few better options than fiber cement. It can be designed to look like wood or stone, among other materials, which makes it a very versatile option.
Fiber cement is also more fire resistant than vinyl siding because it’s made from a mixture of cement and cellulose fibers. This makes it harder to burn or melt than vinyl siding. Fiber cement is also far more impact resistant than vinyl siding, which is very thin and easy to puncture.
The other major advantage that fiber cement offers over vinyl siding is it’s eco-friendliness. Whereas vinyl sidings creation process requires the use of fossil fuels, fiber cement is made of more sustainable materials, making it the more eco-friendly option.
Vinyl Siding
While fiber cement is slightly more customizable, vinyl siding also offers the opportunity to customize its appearance to resemble other siding materials. However, fiber cement is still the more durable option, and if you are trying to give your home siding that resembles stone or brick, fiber cement will look far more realistic than vinyl.
One major advantage that vinyl siding offers over fiber cement is its energy efficiency. While it is a close competition between the two, vinyl siding edges out fiber cement due to the fact that vinyl siding can be fitted with extra insulation, although it’s not a standard option on all vinyl siding. However, if you opt to get the siding that comes fitted with it, it will be more efficient than fiber cement.
Finally, when it comes to cost, vinyl siding is certainly the more economical option. If you are trying to replace your siding on a budget, vinyl siding is a better option than fiber cement. While fiber cement arguably looks better than vinyl siding does, it is considerably more expensive, which can make vinyl siding the more attractive option for homeowners.
Which One Should I Choose?
Both fiber cement and vinyl siding offer advantages over the other. Vinyl is more affordable and has the potential to be more energy efficient, while fiber cement is more visually appealing and environmentally sustainable. Ultimately, both options are great choices to re-side your home. The option you choose is mostly dependent on your budget and aesthetic tastes. If you need more help deciding which one is right for you, reach out to our team at E.M. Snow Inc at (781) 893-4546 to discuss the options we have available! Our highly-skilled team will be happy to provide you with more direction to help you make sure you’re thrilled with the product you decide upon!