The Basics of Siding Replacement – Part 2: Vinyl & Fiber Cement – Popular Siding Options

Are you sold on siding replacement? There will be several options available to you. To help you narrow them down, it is a good idea to take stock of your needs and preferences. Another way to whittle down your list is to take a look at popular options. Certain siding materials are popular for a reason. And if those reasons coincide with what you’re looking for, then you have the ideal siding replacement material for you.

Vinyl Siding

Vinyl has been around for a while and it remains one of the most popular siding options today. According to the Vinyl Siding Institute, statistics from the U.S. Census Bureau show that homeowners have preferred vinyl over other materials since 1995. Why this preference for vinyl siding? It may have to do with the siding option’s many benefits, which include:

• Durability. Vinyl resists rain, snow and other threats well.
• Aesthetic appeal. Vinyl comes in a range of colors and finishes, allowing you to choose a siding option that will complement your home best.
• Installation ease. Vinyl is lightweight, making it easy to handle, which facilitates installation and cuts down on labor costs.
• Maintenance ease. Vinyl doesn’t require routine painting, making it easy to care for.

Fiber Cement Siding

Fiber cement is a relative newcomer to the siding scene, and has become one of the most popular options today. This material also offers a number of benefits, which is why more and more homeowners are looking at fiber cement for siding replacement. These benefits include:

• Realistic wood appearance. Fiber cement can imitate the appearance of wood, making it an ideal alternative for anyone interested in the charm of wooden siding without the inherent weaknesses.
• Superior impact- and thermal-resistance. Fiber cement is tough and can withstand strikes and hits, as well as constant changes in temperature.
• Resistant to rot and insects. Fiber cement is not porous like wood, so it can handle repeated exposure to moisture without rotting. And because it cannot rot, the siding material does not promote insect activity.
• Holds paint well. Fiber cement siding features factory-applied colors and finishes that last a long time. It is likely a paint job will be needed only once every 10 years.

Siding replacement is an investment. Make sure you make the most of it by ensuring your siding is cared for. Check out Part 3 for some maintenance tips.