Is Composite Siding Better Than Vinyl?

If you’re thinking about replacing the siding on your house, you may be wondering which is the better option: composite siding or vinyl siding. One of the most popular types of composite siding is fiber cement siding, which is made from a mixture of wood pulp, cement, water, and filler (often silica sand or fly ash). Vinyl siding, on the other hand, is made using polyvinyl chloride (PVC).

Neither type of siding is markedly better than the other. Both are durable, aesthetically pleasing, and customizable. Each siding material offers its own set of advantages, and the one that’s better for your home will depend on your own personal preferences.

Advantages of Composite Siding

Fiber cement siding is a great choice for homeowners concerned with fire resistance because it’s more flame-retardant than vinyl. Hardie Board fiber cement siding, in particular, is non-combustible and won’t ignite even when directly exposed to flames. Vinyl siding can melt when exposed to excessively high temperatures, so if you go with this option, you’ll need to keep outdoor grills, cigarettes, and other heat sources away from the side of your house to avoid warping and discoloration.

If you’re looking for an environmentally friendly option, fiber cement siding may be the better choice. It’s made from more sustainable materials than vinyl siding, and it doesn’t require the use of fossil fuels during the manufacturing process. On the other hand, because fiber cement siding is considerably heavier than vinyl siding, more fuel may be required to transport it to your home.

Advantages of Vinyl Siding

If energy efficiency is a primary concern, you may want to opt for vinyl siding. Vinyl siding is generally more energy efficient than fiber cement siding to begin with, and it’s fairly common to find vinyl siding with insulated foam backing. Ply Gem, for instance, manufactures ClimaForce insulated vinyl siding. If you choose to go with fiber cement siding, make sure to choose an insulated option. James Hardie®, for instance, offers HardiePlank® lap siding with insulation.

Homeowners seeking a low-maintenance option may want to have vinyl siding installed. Vinyl siding never needs to be painted, while many types of fiber cement siding have to be repainted every few years. It’s important to note, however, that certain brands of fiber cement siding are specially designed to resist fading. Hardie Board siding, for example, is available with ColorPlus® Technology, which helps it retain its color longer than traditional house paint. This special finish is cured in between coats to prevent cracking, chipping, and peeling.

Composite & Vinyl Siding in Tampa, Orlando & Fort Myers

If you’re in need of siding in Tampa, Orlando, Fort Myers, or a surrounding area, you can turn to the home improvement experts at Morgan Exteriors. We proudly carry Hardie Board fiber cement siding and Ply Gem vinyl siding, and our knowledgeable associates can help you select the option that’s best for your specific needs. Contact us today to learn more and to set up a complimentary in-home consultation.