If you’re looking for siding, there are plenty of options to choose from, such as vinyl, fiber cement, metal and hardee. Each of these materials has its advantages and disadvantages, so the decision as to which to use is not an easy one. You’ll have to weigh your options carefully and evaluate a couple of factors, not just how they look, but also their cost, durability and more.
The two most popular siding options for a commercial building are fiber cement and vinyl, so let’s take a closer look at them and compare them.
What You Need to Know About Fiber Cement Siding?
If you want something that looks like wood (so you have a more natural look), fiber cement siding is a good way to go. However, don’t be fooled by its appearance – fiber cement siding is anything but wood and you certainly won’t have any termite problems if you install it.
The material itself is very durable and is easy to install, meaning the cost of installation and maintenance is significantly reduced. In addition, it is also resistant to heat and moisture, so it’s a good choice for a variety of weather and climate conditions.
What You Need to Know About Vinyl Siding?
Vinyl siding is a bit more pricey, but it compensates this thanks to its durability, so it will probably last you for years and years. It is made of PVC – a type of rigid plastic that is fixed to the building’s exterior in such a way that it allows the material to contract or expand, depending on the temperature conditions outside.
Vinyl has been around for a while now, since the 1960s and is currently the most popular exterior wall material.
Comparison
Let’s put these two against each other.
Look
First off, how they look. In this category, vinyl siding takes the prize over not just fiber cement, but other siding options as well, since none other can provide the range of looks that it can – from a modern-looking to a historical-looking façade, as well as a wide variety of colors and styles to choose from. Fiber cement itself is good, but it takes second place to vinyl.
Durability
Both materials are very durable and certainly a better option than wood. However, vinyl is yet again the superior option. The reason for this is that fiber cement can absorb water over time, which allows the walls to rot. Plus, vinyl is also highly resistant to cracks, while fiber cement is very rigid, so it’s not uncommon for the material to show cracks here and there.
Maintenance
Again, vinyl edges its opponent simply because it doesn’t need constant repainting. With fiber cement siding, the paint will fade over time. In addition, you’ll also have to make sure that the caulking in the joint has not lost its integrity or water may intrude. • Cost Finally, we’ve come to the category that probably interests customers the most – cost. Installing these two will cost you almost the same, although once again, vinyl could save you a few bucks here as well. The cost of installed siding per 100 square feet is where vinyl wins. Whereas fiber cement can reach $300 per 100 sq. feet, vinyl siding is about a hundred dollars less.
