If you’re considering new siding for your home, you may be wondering what the best option is.
There are a lot of choices out there, but two of the most popular are vinyl siding and Hardie board.
So, which is the better option?
Let’s take a look at vinyl siding vs. Hardie board to see which one comes out on top.
An Overview of Vinyl Siding and Hardie Board
Have you ever heard the terms “vinyl siding” or “Hardie board” but weren’t sure what they meant?
In the world of home remodeling, these two materials are becoming increasingly popular.
Let’s dive into what vinyl siding and Hardie board are so that you can make an informed decision on which one best fits your needs.
Vinyl Siding
Vinyl siding is a synthetic material made from polyvinyl chloride (PVC). It was invented in the 1950s as a cheaper alternative to wood siding and has since become one of the most popular forms of exterior siding for homes across America.
Vinyl is lightweight and easy to install, making it a great choice for DIYers. It also requires very little maintenance, making it an attractive option for homeowners looking to minimize their upkeep costs.
The main drawback of vinyl siding is that it isn’t as durable as other materials like brick or stone. It can fade over time and be damaged by hail or strong winds.
Additionally, some people find its appearance too artificial-looking compared to natural materials like wood or stone.
Hardie Board
Hardie board is a brand of fiber cement siding created by James Hardie Industries in Australia in the early 1980s.
Hardie board is made from a combination of cellulose fibers and cement, unlike vinyl siding, making it incredibly durable and resistant to wear and tear from weathering. It also provides excellent insulation for homes during extreme temperatures, helping homeowners save money on energy costs throughout the year.
While Hardie board has many advantages over traditional vinyl siding, it also comes with a few drawbacks. For starters, it is much heavier than the vinyl, so installation can be more challenging and expensive if professional assistance is required.
Additionally, due to its cement composition, Hardie board tends to be more expensive than other types of exterior siding available on the market today.
Vinyl Siding vs. Hardie Board: Which is Best for Your Climate?
Are you considering replacing the siding on your home and deciding between vinyl siding and Hardie board?
Both are popular options, but there are a few key factors to keep in mind when making your decision.
One of the most important factors is climate; some materials may not be suitable for certain climates. Let’s take a look at how climate can affect the performance of vinyl siding and Hardie board.
Vinyl Siding in Cold Climates
Vinyl siding is an affordable option that’s easy to install, and it’s generally quite durable. However, in cold climates, it may not be the best choice. That’s because vinyl isn’t as resistant to extreme temperatures or moisture as other materials.
In fact, if temperatures drop too low—below zero degrees Fahrenheit—vinyl can become brittle and even crack or break off in chunks. It also has a tendency to warp or sag due to ice dams forming on its surface.
If you live in a cold climate, you may want to consider alternatives such as Hardie board instead of vinyl siding.
Hardie Board in Hot Climates
Hardie board is made from cement fibers that have been bonded together with Portland cement and water-resistant resins.
This makes it incredibly durable and weather-resistant, making it perfect for hot climates where intense sunlight can cause other materials to fade over time. The material is also fire-resistant, so it won’t catch fire easily like wood or vinyl siding might if exposed to flames from nearby fires or heaters.
Plus, Hardie board comes pre-painted in an array of colors that won’t fade over time as paint applied directly onto wood or vinyl siding will eventually do.
And if you ever need to make repairs or replace sections of your Hardie board installation, all you need is a few specialized tools and some extra pieces of Hardie board—no painting necessary!
Comparing the Costs of Vinyl Siding vs. Hardie Board
When it comes to choosing a siding material for your home, there are several options available. You can choose between vinyl siding, wood siding, brick, stone, and Hardie board.
Each has its own advantages and disadvantages in terms of cost and other factors. In this blog post, we’ll be taking a look at two popular choices: vinyl siding and Hardie board.
Let’s delve into the specifics of each option to determine which one is right for you and your budget.
Vinyl Siding Cost & Advantages
Vinyl siding is one of the most common choices for homeowners looking to update the exterior of their property.
It’s relatively inexpensive compared to some other materials, such as brick or stone, but it still provides a great level of protection from the elements.
The average cost per square foot ranges from $2 – $7, depending on your type of vinyl siding.
Additionally, vinyl siding is easy to install and maintain; it’s lightweight, so it doesn’t require additional support structures like heavier materials do; and it comes in many colors, so you can easily customize your home’s aesthetic appeal without breaking the bank.
Hardie Board Cost & Advantages
Hardie board is another popular choice when it comes to home exteriors.
It’s made from fiber cement, making it more durable than traditional wood or vinyl siding options. It’s also fire-resistant and insect-proof, making it an ideal choice for more extreme climates where heavy rains or high temperatures could cause damage to other materials over time.
While Hardie board tends to be more expensive than vinyl (averaging around $8 – $12 per square foot), its superior durability means that it will last longer with fewer repairs, which makes up for its higher initial cost over time.
Conclusion
There are many things to consider when you’re trying to decide which type of siding is right for your home.
Weigh the pros and cons of each option and think about what’s important to you in terms of aesthetics, durability, and maintenance. If you need help making a decision or want more information about our vinyl siding and Hardie Board offerings, get in touch with us.
We’d be happy to chat with you about your options and help you find the perfect solution for your home.