Every homeowner asks themselves; which is the best siding material for their home. There are various differences such as vinyl siding, fiber cement siding, and metal siding. Each offers distinct benefits and disadvantages. The selection of the cladding material for your home’s exterior necessitates the careful consideration of many variables. There is, of course, the look. Aluminum siding will have a different appearance than painted wood planks, which will have a different appearance than cedar shake shingles.
Yet there are also other things to take into account. The material’s durability comes first. The second factor is how much upkeep your siding will need to remain neat and new-looking.
The price is third. Finally, consider the siding’s eco-friendliness, energy efficiency, and how well it will insulate your home from heat and cold.
As a professional, licensed, and bonded contractor in Connecticut specializing in siding installation, rely on us to offer the best choice for your home.
Vinyl Siding vs. Fiber Cement Siding vs. Metal Siding
Vinyl and fiber cement are two siding options that are more frequently used in modern residences. Read this quick guide to the features and benefits of each siding material to see which could be best for you.
Vinyl Siding
Vinyl siding is firmly fastened to the outside of your home, enabling it to expand and contract in response to changing temperatures. Vinyl siding is largely constructed from PVC, a tough plastic material. Data from the US Census Bureau show that vinyl has been the most popular external wall material for 20 years.
In small homes or apartment buildings that need weatherproofing, this sort of plastic siding is widely employed (especially in areas that get lots of precipitation and storms). It is a lovely exterior option because it comes in various colors.
Vinyl siding is a comparatively inexpensive choice. Installation expenses for a typical 2,000-square-foot single-family home range from $6,150 to $15,900.
Vinyl siding is virtually fire-resistant since it is constructed of polyvinyl chloride or PVC. PVC will not catch fire until it reaches a temperature of roughly 750 degrees Fahrenheit, which is incredibly high. Moreover, PVC has a particularly high oxygen requirement for continued burning. Therefore, it is more difficult for fires to start and far more difficult for them to stay burning.
Fiber Cement Siding
Wood pulp, fly ash, Portland cement, and water is combined to create fiber-cement siding, which is then shaped into long boards or shingles. It is nailed straight into your house.
Fiber cement siding is a great option for people searching for outside siding that will last at least 30 years because it is strong and long-lasting. People in tough climates would benefit most from fiber cement siding because it can withstand stormy weather conditions like hail and strong winds.
Although it gives versatility in looks, cement’s durability is maintained. Wood is one of many siding material choices for fiber cement siding. The main obstacle to fiber cement siding is the installation cost. This is because setting up a new system requires a lot of labor and time. Because installing fiber cement siding probably necessitates hiring a professional, be prepared to suffer some financial setbacks.
Metal Siding
One of the first substitute siding materials to be created was metal, which gained favor in the 1950s due to the need for extensive upkeep and the dwindling high-quality wood’s availability suitable for siding. Even today, steel and aluminum are often used to make lap siding planks and various shingle/shake style siding products.
The first material to satisfy the requirements was aluminum siding, which evolved into a siding choice for recently constructed homes requiring very little care. The availability of inexpensive steel from other sources has led to an increase in the use of steel siding in recent years.
With an interlocking edge at the bottom to defend against the elements and a mounting flange at the top for nailing, horizontal aluminum, and steel siding is available in strips that imitate wood lap siding. It could be challenging to distinguish between wood and metal siding from a distance.
This siding often includes a factory-applied coating to ensure optimal corrosion protection. Steel panels that are unfinished and plain are typically galvanized to prevent corrosion. Some recent goods feature a vinyl or plastic coverings that protect against fading and corrosion.
Metal siding is typically more suitable for commercial applications, and it can be a more pricey siding option in comparison to the aforementioned materials. However, the durability of the material makes it a convincing choice.
Vinyl vs. Fiber Cement vs. Metal Siding – Pros and Cons
Finding a reputable siding installation contractor can be difficult and stressful. Like most of us, your home is the biggest investment you make in your life. Therefore, we need to preserve it and extend its life. Your home’s siding should be in good condition to assist shed water and prevent rot, mold, and other water damage.
Let us look at the pros and cons of vinyl, fiber cement, and metal siding options.
Vinyl Siding
Pros
Cheapest type of siding
Extremely robust; some models come with 50-year warranties
Allows rapid professional installation
Cons
Cold weather may make it more prone to cracking
The only solution for damaged planks or panels is a replacement
Fiber Cement Siding
Pros
A product with a 50-year warranty is quite durable
Resists being harmed by dampness and insects
Flame and heat-resistant
Cons
A moderately pricey siding option
Heavy materials; challenging for do-it-yourselfers to install
Metal Siding
Pros
Low-maintenance
Numerous available styles
Extremely durable—sometimes covered by 35-year warranties
Cons
Prone to dents
A fairly pricey siding option
Older products’ finishes may fade or become chalky
Picking the Right Siding Material
If you have the money, fiber cement is a fantastic option. Although it is difficult to tell this product apart from real wood, it will be significantly less maintenance-intensive than natural wood siding and resistant to fire and heat harm. The only maintenance required is possibly repainting it every 10 to 15 years. At Coastal Construction, we have extensive experience installing James Hardie, Nichiha, and Allura brands of fiber cement siding. Contact us for professional installation.
For commercial and some residential use cases, we recommend upgrading to metal siding. It looks great, requires low maintenance, it’s durable and fireproof. If the budget can afford it, we highly recommend this route. If you’re looking for a professional and licensed contractor in Southington (and surroundings Connecticut cities), give us a call.
For more thrifty households, vinyl siding is a good, long-lasting choice for a siding material. Vinyl is more affordable, readily available, and we have years of experience installing it professionally. If vinyl is your choice, don’t hesitate to get a free estimate from us today!
Bottom Line
If you do not have anything chosen or need assistance, we will come out to your property after your initial contact with us, measure, and help you choose the finest product. Following that, we will obtain a free estimate and submit a proposal to you. If you choose to proceed, we will sign a contract so you will have proof that the contractor you have hired is properly qualified, insured, and able to work in your area.
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