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Home : Products & Materials : Vinyl Siding vs Fiber Cement
Vinyl Siding vs Fiber Cement
Let's compare vinyl siding vs fiber cement and dig into the pros and cons (and costs) of these very popular cladding materials. Most industry insiders would say that these two options are the most popular siding materials on the market today. Certainly, that's one of the reasons why this topic is so interesting to consumers and homeowners alike. Scroll down to see our categories and how we score each material.
Bill - Site Editor - Page Updated in 2025
Basics On Each
Certainly the biggest difference between vinyl siding and fiber cement siding is the actual material(s) used to formulate these popular cladding options. So let’s start out by simply explaining what each of these exterior claddings is made from.
Vinyl siding is made from PVC, which stands for polyvinyl chloride. Essentially, this is a form of hard plastic, although over the decades, manufacturers have modified the chemical makeup to incorporate the ideal mix of rigidity and overall strength for an effective exterior cladding.
Conversely, fiber cement is made from a combination of sand, cement and cellulose fibers, which is then mixed with water. The mixture or slurry is then poured into sheets, which are subsequently rolled into specific shapes (shingles or planks), and/or different thicknesses. From here, the sheets are cured using a high pressure technique that hardens and strengthens the fiber cement. Finally, the boards are cut to size and shape, packaged, and shipped off to the stores.
Advantages Of Vinyl Siding Cost vs Fiber Cement
Certainly, the cost of vinyl siding is its biggest advantage over fiber cement. The reasons for the cost difference is simple - VS is cheaper to make and distribute. Another advantage is the weight - VS is much lighter than FC. This makes it easier to work with, cut, and install. Cutting fiber cement boards can be a messy business that certain installers are very hesitant to deal with. The overall advantage here is a significantly lower cost. Generally, consumers can expect the labor costs to be $2 to $5 less per square foot with vinyl siding vs fiber cement.
Related Topics: Vinyl Siding Calculator
Disadvantages Of Vinyl Siding Cost vs Fiber Cement
Overall, I would say, vinyl siding will not last as long as fiber cement. This is less true of foam-backed vinyl siding, although fiber cement still beats these more expensive vinyl siding options. Also, vinyl siding does not have (as much) long term surface durability as fiber cement. This is a factor for homes that are prone to storms, hail, flooding, etc. Specifically, vinyl siding is more susceptible to dings, dents, and rips.
Advantages Of Fiber Cement
Generally, fiber cement boards are heavier and heartier than vinyl siding. Therefore, they are less prone to dinging, denting, and ripping over time. Additionally, they will typically last longer than vinyl siding and therefore offer better long term value. However, their potential maintenance cost could mitigate some or all of this (see below).
Related Topics: Hardie Siding Calculator
Fiber Cement Disadvantages
Cost, which I mentioned before is an important consideration here. Fiber cement is more expensive to buy and more expensive to install. When improperly installed, fiber cement boards can absorb moisture, which can be a real nightmare. This is where hiring a seasoned installer with plenty of installation experience with fiber cement boards is really important. Finally, fiber cement requires periodic painting to maintain its appearance. This can be an expensive process and one that homeowners should consider prior to purchase when they are considering long term costs.
Related Topics: Fiber Cement Siding Colors
Cost Comparisons
Admittedly, cost comparisons are tricky when it comes vinyl siding vs fiber cement. This is due to the fact that local companies give out price quotes, and these can vary significantly. However, as an average, fiber cement projects will run 30% more than vinyl siding. This is due to the increased material cost, as well as the labor cost increases for the actual work. Here is our best guesstimate as to what consumers can expect when it comes to vinyl siding vs fiber cement project costs.
Related Topics: Fiber Cement Siding Cost Calculator
-- Vinyl Siding Cost Range: $5 to $10 psf fully installed --
-- Fiber Cement Cost Range: $8 to $15 psf fully installed --
A Question Of Aesthetics
On the question of aesthetics, the winner has to be fiber cement boards. FCB are very versatile and can take on the look of cedar wood siding to lap siding or industrial concrete and more. While vinyl siding shakes and shingles do give them a run for their money, I think the clear winner is fiber cement. However, remember that these boards are also more difficult to work with than vinyl so you really need an installer who is a well adept at installing the material.
Top Vinyl Siding Manufacturers
There are quite a few quality vinyl siding manufacturers out there. Here are four of our favorites.
ABTco Vinyl Siding (TimberCrest Premium)
Royal Siding (Duraplank)
CertainTeed Vinyl Siding (Cedar Impressions)
Heartland Siding (CedarMAX product)
Top Fiber Cement Manufacturers
There are far fewer quality fiber cement manufacturers out there. Here are two of our favorites.
Hardie Board (sometimes called Hardi Plank) by James Hardie
Crane Siding (CraneBoard)
Related Topics: Vinyl Shake Siding Prices
* Insulated Vinyl Siding Cost