If you’re considering remodeling the exterior of your Louisville home, you have quite a few options for your siding. Currently, the two most popular options in 2021 are vinyl and Hardie board siding. Both of these options are attractive and cost-effective ways to give your home an update, but how do you decide between them? 

Luckily for you, we have put together this extensive blog comparing the pros and cons of each type of siding so you can make the most educated decision!

Hardie Board Pros

#1. Curb Appeal and Increased Home Value

There’s no question that Hardie board is beautiful. The fibrous material the pieces are constructed out of can be shaped to mimic the texture of wood, stone, and other natural surfaces so you can have the appearance of a natural exterior without the cost of actually installing one.

Hardie board siding has a wide variety of design options. You can choose between vertical and horizontal paneling, and different textures such as smooth or rough, and even design choices such as shingles or stucco. This wide variety of options allows homeowners to customize the exterior of their home exactly the way they’d like.

Hardie board does not fade in color and is less likely to scratch. This is because of the ColorPlus technology that James Hardie uses to coat all of his products and extend their longevity.

#2. Durability and Reliability

The most notorious and sought-after feature of Hardie board siding is its durability. Because it is constructed of fiber cement, it is thick enough and strong enough to resist the strain of almost any weather condition or trial of nature. Because of its composition, Hardie board can fit into virtually any climate and withstand the fluctuations between hot and cold with ease.  

Hardie board is fire retardant, waterproof, pest resistant, and weather-resistant, meaning that not only will the siding continue to look great for years upon years, but it will also protect the inside of your home for longer than traditional vinyl siding without breaking or warping.

This siding is so durable that it lasts longer than almost any other type of siding you can select for your home. Hardie board siding typically comes with a 30-50-year warranty, compared to the 25-year average for vinyl.

#3. Cost

The costs associated with installing Hardie board can be viewed as both a pro and a con. The positive aspect is that Hardie board siding can be made to mimic the appearance of traditional wood or stone siding, which are typically quite expensive options to install and maintain. Hardie board is a fraction of the cost of these classic ‘real’ siding elements while still giving the appearance of that natural look.

However, there’s a downside as well.

Hardie Board Cons

#1. Cost

Hardie board is more expensive than vinyl. Not only is the material itself more costly because of its composition and quality, but the price of installation is also higher.  

#2. Difficult Installation

The biggest reason for the price difference between Hardie board and vinyl siding is the challenges that come with installing it on your home. Hardie board is heavier than vinyl, requiring more manpower and precision to install it correctly.

Hardie board is also difficult to cut because of its thickness, meaning that crews that install it need special heavy-duty tools to do it correctly.  

You should never try to install this siding yourself. Not hiring a professional will end up costing you more in the long run in repairs than the upfront cost of just paying for installation.

Let’s move on to vinyl siding.

Vinyl Pros

#1. Cost

The most notable benefit of choosing vinyl siding is that it is significantly cheaper than Hardie board and one of the most affordable options for siding your home. Vinyl is made of thin plastic that can be mass-produced and easily installed. The low price point is attractive and makes re-siding your home attainable for many people.

#2. Low Maintenance

 As the saying goes: “If it’s vinyl, it’s final.” Vinyl has been an appealing alternative to wood because of its durability. Vinyl siding typically comes with a 25-year warranty. Because it is made of plastic, it never needs to be painted and is resistant to the elements. It is also easier to maintain than traditional wood siding, which needs to be treated often. A quick spray from a hose can make vinyl siding appear good as new.

#3. Variety of Styles

Vinyl siding has many different styles to choose from. Its wide variety of colors allows for homeowners to customize the exterior of their home to their liking. You can also pick between horizontal or vertical panels.

Vinyl Cons 

#1. Vulnerable to Changes in Temperature

Cold weather can cause vinyl siding to crack, and hot weather can cause the plastic to warp. Vinyl might not be the best choice for you if you live in a region with extreme temperatures in one direction or the other.

#2. Thin and Brittle

While vinyl is very resistant to wind and rain, it is so thin that it can easily be dented by hail or rocks kicked up by a lawnmower. It becomes more brittle with age and gets weaker over time. 

As you can see, there are plenty of good reasons to choose either siding option for your home. However, we at NLR recommend that you give it a chance if you have the budget to go for Hardie board! It is the industry-recognized superior siding option, even if it is a bit more pricey.

New Look Roof is a local roofing company based in Louisville, Kentucky. Our mission is to provide top-quality service for all manner of exterior home projects, including siding, gutters, roofs, and doors/windows!

If you’re considering starting a new home renovation project, don’t hesitate to call us at (502) 341-4415 to schedule your free no-obligation project evaluation!