James Hardie vs. Vinyl Siding

Siding Replacement Material Comparison

Old siding can cause damaging moisture penetration, and cost you time and money. Beautiful new siding, from American Way Exteriors, gives your Dayton home great new curb appeal, protection from the elements, and energy-saving insulation. Indoor comfort increases with new siding, and outdoor noise intrusion decreases, giving you an optimal indoor atmosphere.

When it comes to siding replacement materials, James Hardie fiber cement and vinyl siding are two popular options. They both have benefits, but one will meet your long-term performance needs better than the other, so take a good look at the facts about both before determining the best fit for your home.

Facts about James Hardie Fiber Cement Siding

America’s most popular siding replacement product—James Hardie siding—will give you confidence that your home is well protected for decades. Here are some essentials about this amazing siding:

James Hardie siding pros

1. Beauty

When it comes to looks, you can’t beat James Hardie siding. It’s gorgeous, and maintains its beauty for decades, boosting your curb appeal and home value.

2. Durability

James Hardie siding stands up to high winds, the change of temperatures, and debris with ease. You can count on this strong, durable siding to keep your home well protected for up to 50 years.

3. Customization

James Hardie siding comes in popular looks like board-and-batten—perfect for the rustic chic Farmhouse design, or classic HardiePlank lap siding, ideal for a traditional look. Choose from vertical or horizontal planks to get the look you love.

4. Warranty

The 30-year non-prorated, transferable warranty that comes with James Hardie siding gives homeowners confidence in the long-term performance of this outstanding material.

5. Color

The James Hardie company offers ColorPlus® technology which gives you reliable baked-on color to enjoy. Choose from carefully selected color combinations to get the fabulous look you desire. ColorPlus technology comes with a 15-year warranty.

6. Noncombustible

James Hardie siding won’t contribute to a fire, and withstands heat—so you can rest assured that your family is well protected with this outstanding siding product.

7. Pest Resistant

James Hardie siding resists pests like stink bugs, ants, termites and woodpeckers. Avoid the hassles of pest infestation and woodpecker damage by investing in durable James Hardie fiber cement siding.

8. Low Maintenance

The makeup of fiber cement siding (cement, sand, and cellulose) causes it to last with minimal upkeep. Simply clean it twice a year with a garden hose and a nylon, medium bristle brush.

9. Painting

Since the siding is low maintenance, your James Hardie siding can wait 15 years or more before it needs a fresh coat of paint.

James Hardie siding cons

1. The initial investment

The initial investment in James Hardie siding may be above that of vinyl, but it offers so many outstanding features, homeowners can actually save in the long run. Since it lasts up to 50 years, you won’t have to replace it, making it a wise investment.

2. Installation

James Hardie siding is five times thicker than vinyl, and because of its depth and weight, it takes a larger work crew to install than vinyl siding.Impressed by all that James Hardie has to offer? Check out our complete James Hardie Siding Guide for a comprehensive look at America's #1 siding pick.

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Facts about Vinyl Siding

Vinyl siding can be a good fit for rental properties and first-time home buyers. Here are some of vinyl’s characteristics:

Vinyl’s Pros

1. Cost-effective

The primary draw of vinyl siding is its affordability. It’s good looking, and can make siding replacement more feasible for homeowners.

2. Maintenance

Vinyl siding never needs to be repainted. But that means you have to pick a color you’re going to love for the long haul.

Vinyl’s Cons

1. It dents easily

The surprising flick of an unsuspecting piece of debris (such as a small rock) from your lawn mower can dent your vinyl siding and decrease its good looks.

2. It cracks in cold temperatures

Unfortunately, winter temperatures can cause vinyl siding to crack and leave your home vulnerable to the elements. This can lead to costly moisture damage, and the need to reside your home.

3. It won’t stand up to a fire

Vinyl siding is treated with fire retardant, and it will only slow down the spread of a fire. It melts quickly when exposed to a fire.

4. It becomes brittle with age

The 24/7 exposure to wear and tear can cause vinyl siding to become brittle.

5. Weather can be tough on it

Vinyl siding is easily damaged by wind debris, hail, and other weather elements. It tends to crack, warp, or buckle with temperature changes.

6. Its color can fade unevenly

Siding contributes to your curb appeal, and vinyl siding can fade at noticeably different rates and create unattractive color inconsistency.

How to Choose the Best Siding for Your Home

When it comes to siding material selection, before choosing your siding, take a good look at your needs, budget, and long-term goals for your home exterior. Weigh the pros and cons, and the best long term solution for you will stand out. Remember, you’re going to reap the benefits of your siding choice for decades, so consider your options carefully.

The American Way Difference—Siding Installation You Can Trust

At American Way Exteriors, we believe in installing the finest materials with precision. That’s why we install James Hardie fiber cement siding. Get inspired about the possibilities by reading our customer reviews.