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Blog > Siding > Siding Matchup: Hardie Siding vs. Vinyl Siding

Siding Matchup: Hardie Siding vs. Vinyl Siding

When homeowners consider installing siding – for curb appeal, to protect their investment, and to provide energy-saving insulation – their minds automatically jump to vinyl siding, the better-known and more modestly priced choice.

But when it comes to siding installation, you can get much more bang for your buck, with greater durability and better visual appeal, by opting for a James Hardie siding solution. This is a fiber-cement siding that is functional, versatile, and provides great value for your money.

The Hardie line of products includes:

  • Hardieplank siding
  • Hardiepanel siding
  • Hardie Board siding
  • Vertical lap siding
  • Hardieshingle siding
  • A variety of siding, soffit and trim options

Here are four reasons you should choose Hardie siding over vinyl:

1. It Lasts Longer

Vinyl siding can easily melt in a fire. For its part, Hardie siding is non-combustible and resists sagging, melting and warping.

Hardie siding is mostly composed of sand or cement-like materials and only 10 to 15% wood fibers, so it is highly flame retardant. While vinyl siding is often treated with a flame-resistant coating, it will still warp or melt quickly if something catches fire nearby.

2. It Looks Better

Hardie siding is more than five times thicker than vinyl siding, with more pronounced grooves and more realistic wood grain than its plastic rival. This choice for siding installation is much better for a historic home or any home that wants an elegant appeal.

Hardie siding can be made to look like wood materials that include lapboard, cedar shingles, and wood shake siding. Vinyl siding can be painted to look like wood, but its thinness prevents it from having the deep textures found in natural wood or Hardie boards.

3. It’s Weather Resistant

Vinyl siding is more prone to become damaged by the weather, including storm debris and extremely hot or cold temperatures. In contrast, Hardie siding is highly resistant to the cracks and decay that happen over the years. It can even stand proud against the assault of salt spray – an important consideration for oceanfront homes.

4. It Has Color Flexibility

James Hardie Siding can be painted any color and lasts longer than wood. The color of vinyl siding cannot be changed and is susceptible to fading. It’s also hard to match vinyl color when it comes to repairs.

Contact us today for a free consultation and quote. At American Home Contractors, we back up our quality workmanship and materials with extended warranties and a firm commitment to customer satisfaction.