Below is an in-depth look at both Hardie board and vinyl siding, along with tips to help you decide which best fits your project.
1. Hardie Board (Fiber Cement) Basics
What Is It?
Hardie board is a brand of fiber cement siding made from cement, sand, water, and cellulose fibers. It’s known for its durability, fire resistance, and ability to imitate various materials, including wood.
Key Characteristics
- Longevity: Often lasts 30–50 years with proper care.
- Fire Resistance: Considered highly fire-resistant compared to many other sidings.
- Low Maintenance: Requires periodic cleaning and repainting every 10–15 years.
- Versatile Aesthetics: Can mimic wood grain, cedar shake, or smooth panels, and is easily painted in any color.
2. Vinyl Siding Basics
What Is It?
Vinyl siding is a PVC-based material introduced in the 1950s as an affordable, low-maintenance alternative to wood. Modern vinyl siding comes in an extensive range of colors and textures.
Key Characteristics
- Budget-Friendly: Typically less expensive than fiber cement in terms of both materials and labor.
- Minimal Maintenance: Often just requires occasional cleaning with mild detergent or a garden hose.
- Color Variety: Available in numerous hues; color is infused into the material, reducing the need for repainting.
- Durability: Though it can crack under extreme temperature shifts or heavy impact, premium vinyl tends to be long-lasting.
3. Side-by-Side Comparison
3.1 Durability and Lifespan
- Hardie Board
- Resistant to rot, insects, and temperature extremes.
- Lifespan of 30–50 years with recommended upkeep.
- Fire-rated and non-combustible.
- Vinyl Siding
- Generally lasts 20–30 years, with fewer maintenance demands.
- Can warp or crack in harsh weather or if struck by debris.
- Will self-extinguish if ignited, but is not as fire-resistant as fiber cement.
Verdict: Hardie board is the sturdier option overall, though vinyl holds up well when properly installed and maintained.
3.2 Maintenance
- Hardie Board
- Occasional cleaning with a brush or low-pressure wash.
- Repainting every 10–15 years; some factory finishes extend this interval.
- Minor repairs (e.g., filling chips or cracks) typically require paint touch-ups.
- Vinyl Siding
- No painting required, as color is integrated into the material.
- Routine cleaning is straightforward—often just a quick hose-down.
- Damaged panels are relatively easy to replace, though color-matching older siding can be tricky.
Verdict: Vinyl siding usually demands less ongoing maintenance. However, Hardie board’s upkeep is still modest compared to materials like wood.
3.3 Aesthetics
- Hardie Board
- Paintable for complete color freedom.
- Can imitate wood, cedar shake, and stucco textures.
- Premium look and feel; often considered an upgrade over vinyl.
- Vinyl Siding
- Available in a wide variety of preselected colors and finishes.
- Some vinyl textures replicate wood grain, although less convincingly under close inspection.
- Painting is possible but may void the warranty.
Verdict: Hardie board offers unparalleled versatility in terms of texture and color. Vinyl, however, has enough styles to satisfy most aesthetic preferences.
3.4 Installation and Cost
- Hardie Board
- Heavier, requiring specialized cutting tools and experienced installers.
- Typically costs more due to material expense and labor intensity.
- Proper installation is critical to avoid moisture issues.
- Vinyl Siding
- Lighter and simpler to install, sometimes suitable for DIY.
- Lower overall cost for both materials and labor.
- Quick installation can shorten project timelines.
Verdict: Vinyl siding is more budget-friendly, but Hardie board may offer better long-term value, especially if you consider resale potential.
3.5 Environmental Impact
- Hardie Board
- Made from plentiful raw materials (cement, cellulose, sand).
- Its long lifespan can minimize waste over time.
- Heavier shipping weight increases transportation emissions, but the material itself is considered relatively eco-friendly.
- Vinyl Siding
- Produced from PVC, a petroleum-based product that is not biodegradable.
- Some vinyl products use recycled content.
- Disposal can be more challenging from a sustainability standpoint.
Verdict: Hardie board generally scores higher for green-minded homeowners, but new developments in vinyl manufacturing are improving its environmental profile.
3.6 Resale Value
- Hardie Board
- Seen as an upscale option that enhances curb appeal.
- Often associated with premium custom builds.
- Can fetch a better price upon resale.
- Vinyl Siding
- Provides a clean, well-maintained look.
- May not command as high a resale value as fiber cement.
- Still a popular choice for homebuyers seeking affordability.
Verdict: Hardie board often increases perceived quality. However, vinyl is widely accepted in many markets and remains attractive to cost-conscious buyers.
4. Regional Factors and Climate
Climate plays a major role in siding selection. Hardie board stands up to extreme temperature changes, storms, and wind-driven debris without warping or cracking. Vinyl can perform well in moderate climates but may become brittle in very cold weather or susceptible to warping in intense heat. Local building codes and HOA guidelines can also influence your choice—for instance, some communities require higher fire-resistant materials, in which case Hardie board may be a necessity.
At Long View Custom Homes, we’ve tackled projects in diverse climates. Our team is happy to advise on local considerations and regulatory requirements. Read more about our residential home design here.
5. Curb Appeal and Style Considerations
Your siding choice should complement your home’s overall aesthetic. Hardie board suits both modern and traditional styles because of its customizable finishes. Vinyl is ideal if you find a factory finish you love and prefer not to paint. Think about how your siding color and texture blend with other exterior elements—like roofing, trim, or stone accents—to create cohesive curb appeal.
For design inspiration, visit our Portfolio to see how we’ve married different siding materials and architectural styles in previous builds.
6. Maintenance Tips for Both Siding Types
No matter which material you choose, regular upkeep extends the life of your siding and protects your investment:
- Routine Inspection: Check for cracks, loose boards, moisture accumulation, and mildew.
- Cleaning:
- Hardie Board: Clean with a soft-bristled brush or low-pressure washer.
- Vinyl: Rinse with a garden hose, especially after storms or in pollen-heavy seasons.
- Repainting (Hardie Board Only): Expect to repaint every 10–15 years to maintain vibrancy.
- Minor Repairs:
- Hardie Board: Patch small chips or cracks with exterior-grade filler, then repaint.
- Vinyl: Replace individual panels if damaged; keep spare siding if possible for easy matching.
7. Budgeting and Financing
Finances often guide siding decisions. Hardie board’s upfront costs are higher, but many homeowners appreciate its durability and fire-resistant properties, which may offer peace of mind and stronger resale value.
Vinyl siding can be installed for less and still maintains a neat exterior with minimal fuss. Ultimately, weigh initial expenditures against long-term performance, potential repairs, and resale value.
At Long View Homes we believe in Cost Plus financing so you are in charge of the material choices for your home. Here you can learn all about Cost Plus Construction.
8. Sustainability and Green Building
If eco-friendliness is a key concern, Hardie board generally outperforms vinyl due to its natural raw materials and lengthy lifespan. However, some vinyl products feature recycled components, and properly installed vinyl can also last decades. Selecting siding that endures means fewer replacements over the life of your home, reducing landfill waste and material consumption.
9. HOA and Code Restrictions
Local building codes or HOA guidelines may dictate or restrict your siding choices. In wildfire-prone areas, fiber cement siding may be mandatory. Some HOAs prefer cohesive neighborhood aesthetics and might prohibit certain vinyl profiles. Before investing in one material, ensure you’re compliant with community or municipal regulations.
Have questions about these restrictions? Explore our FAQ or contact us directly.
10. Making the Final Call
Which siding should you choose? It hinges on your individual priorities:
- Hardie Board (Fiber Cement)
- Ideal for longevity, fire resistance, and upscale curb appeal.
- Requires a higher initial investment but may yield stronger resale returns.
- Suits homeowners who value customization and are willing to repaint as needed.
- Vinyl Siding
- Typically more affordable with minimal ongoing maintenance.
- Numerous factory-applied colors and textures.
- Well-suited to those who want simplicity and less frequent upkeep.
11. How Long View Custom Homes Can Help
At Long View Custom Homes, we believe in a personalized approach to custom home building. From architectural design to exterior finishes, our team is dedicated to aligning your vision with your budget, lifestyle, and local requirements. Siding is a significant investment in your home’s appearance and durability, and we’re here to ensure you make the choice that’s best for your circumstances.
Ready to start your custom home journey?
- Visit our Services page to learn more.
- Check out our Portfolio for design ideas.
- Contact us via our Contact page for a one-on-one consultation.
Whether you choose Hardie board or vinyl, you’ll be one step closer to achieving the custom home of your dreams.