Your home's exterior is more than an aesthetic — it's also your primary defense against the elements. Siding covers the most amount of surface area on your home and whether you're renovating or replacing damaged siding, durability and low maintenance are top priorities for most homeowners.
The good news? Today's outdoor siding options combine lasting performance with visual appeal, so you don't have to sacrifice style for practicality.
The best siding for your home largely depends on your region and local climate. Different kinds of siding materials offer unique benefits, from weather-resistant trim that stands up to harsh conditions to siding designed to resist fading over time.
Wondering what the best siding for houses in your region is? What's the difference between vinyl siding vs fiber cement? Chat with our team of experts at SuperiorPRO and find out today!
The Top Two Most Durable Siding Materials
When it comes to choosing outdoor siding options that can stand up to the elements while requiring minimal maintenance, two materials consistently rise to the top: vinyl siding vs fiber cement siding. These options are engineered to maintain their appearance and performance for years, all while requiring minimal maintenance — saving you time, money, and stress in the long run.
Vinyl and fiber cement siding offer a strong balance of durability, visual appeal, and long-term value, but each differs in important ways.
Vinyl Siding: Affordable Durability
Vinyl siding continues to be a go-to choice for homeowners looking for a low-maintenance and affordable exterior option. Known for its durability and resistance to weathering, vinyl requires very little upkeep, with an occasional rinse with a hose or pressure washer all that's needed to keep it looking fresh.
One of its biggest advantages of vinyl siding is its versatility. Available in a wide array of colors and styles, vinyl can mimic the look of wood, stone, or other high-end materials, making it easy to match your siding to your home's aesthetic.
In addition to being easy to maintain, vinyl siding is also one of the most budget-friendly options available. It offers a relatively low upfront cost, and its long-term durability makes it a cost-effective investment.
However, vinyl siding can be vulnerable to extreme temperatures, potentially warping or buckling in very hot or cold climates. Vinyl is also prone to impact-damage, and weather events involving heavy hail or flying debris can crack or dent the material. Fortunately, repairs are often simple and affordable, with impact and temperature resistant vinyl options available for homes in harsher environments.
Vinyl siding is an excellent choice for homeowners seeking a balance of style, affordability, and minimal maintenance. With its low maintenance and wide design range, vinyl makes a practical solution for many residential needs. Compared to more premium materials like fiber cement or brick, vinyl has a shorter lifespan, but with proper care, it can still last for decades.
Fiber Cement: Long-Lasting Resiliency
Fiber cement is engineered from a composite of cement, sand, and cellulose fibers and offers a unique combination of strength and resilience. Siding made from fiber cement stands up exceptionally well to harsh weather and is resistant to rot, fire, and pests.
The composite of cement, sand, and cellulose fibers in fiber cement creates a strong, crack-resistant siding product, even in regions with extreme temperatures.
The cement provides rigidity and durability, while the preserved wood fibers help prevent rot and microbial growth. Unlike wood or vinyl, fiber cement is unaffected by temperature swings, which means it won't expand or contract, helping paint last longer and reducing the risk of gaps or buckling.
Similarly to vinyl, one of the biggest advantages of fiber cement siding is its versatility of style, though in a more premium fashion. Fiber cement can replicate traditional planks, shingles, and large-format panels, allowing homeowners to mimic the look of wood, stone, or even stucco without the same upkeep. Thanks to its stability, painted finishes on fiber cement can often last a decade or more before needing a refresh.
However, one thing to note is fiber cement's maintenance requirements. Fiber cement siding requires proper installation and routine inspection to maintain its performance. Due to its density, fiber cement is also heavier than materials like vinyl, which may increase labor costs or require additional structural support during installation.
Despite a slightly higher initial investment, fiber cement siding offers excellent long-term value. It delivers the look of high-end materials with far less maintenance, while providing decades of reliable protection against the elements. For homeowners who want a durable, attractive siding solution that stands the test of time, fiber cement is well worth considering.
Choosing Between Fiber Cement and Vinyl Siding
Both fiber cement and vinyl siding offer strong advantages for homeowners seeking durable, low-maintenance exterior solutions, but they cater to different priorities.
Vinyl siding is ideal for those who want an affordable, easy-to-maintain option with a wide variety of colors and styles. It's lightweight, cost-effective, and resistant to moisture and pests, making it a practical choice for many climates.
Fiber cement siding, while more expensive and heavier, delivers superior durability and a more premium appearance. It's highly resistant to fire, pests, and weather extremes, and it holds paint exceptionally well, reducing long-term maintenance needs.
Professional Siding Installation with SuperiorPRO
The best choice for siding comes down to your specific needs, budget, and aesthetic preferences. If cost and convenience are your top concerns, vinyl may be the way to go. If you're investing in long-term value, enhanced curb appeal, and maximum durability, fiber cement is likely the better option.
Looking for a professional opinion? Our team at SuperiorPRO is ready to help you design the perfect siding for your home. Call us today for a free consultation!