Siding plays a huge factor in the curb appeal of your home. Your siding also plays the biggest role in protecting your home from the elements. When it comes to replacing your siding, you want to make sure you make a smart decision with a siding material you can trust. When it comes to choosing the right siding material, two options that often come up are James Hardie siding vs vinyl siding. Both have their own unique features and advantages.
For over 20 years, Thermal King Windows has helped Overland Park and Kansas City homeowners find the best windows and siding to fit their home and budget. In this article, we will dive into the key aspects of James Hardie (Hardie Board) vs vinyl siding so you can make an informed decision about which is the better choice for your home.
Understanding the Basics of Siding
What is James Hardie Siding?
James Hardie or Hardie Board siding, commonly referred to as fiber cement siding, is a durable and versatile material made from a blend of cement, sand, and cellulose fibers. It offers homeowners the look of traditional wood siding with added durability and resistance to various weather conditions. James Hardie siding is known for its longevity and many advantages over traditional siding.
One of the key advantages of James Hardie siding is its resistance to fire, rot, and pests, making it a low-maintenance option for homeowners looking for long-lasting exterior cladding.
Additionally, James Hardie offers a wide range of colors and textures to suit different architectural styles and preferences, providing homeowners with the flexibility to customize their homes to their liking. Certain types of James Hardie siding can also be painted, opening up options for homeowners. James Hardie has an extremely popular Magnolia Home collection that offers classic and contemporary siding options homeowners love.
What is Vinyl Siding?
Vinyl siding is made from polyvinyl chloride (PVC), a synthetic material that provides exceptional durability and low maintenance. It comes in a wide range of colors and styles, allowing homeowners to achieve the desired aesthetic for their homes. Vinyl siding offers resistance to fading, cracking, and warping, making it a popular choice among homeowners.
Another benefit of vinyl siding is its cost-effectiveness compared to other siding materials, making it an attractive option for budget-conscious homeowners. It is also relatively easy to install, saving both time and labor costs during the siding replacement or installation process. With proper care and maintenance, vinyl siding can last for many years, providing a beautiful and protective exterior for residential properties.
Key Features of James Hardie Siding
Durability and Maintenance
One of the standout features of James Hardie siding is its durability. It is resistant to damage from insects, rot, and even fire (the photos speak for themselves!). This durability is achieved through the innovative fiber cement material that James Hardie uses, which is engineered to withstand harsh weather conditions and protect your home for years to come. Unlike other siding materials, James Hardie siding doesn’t warp or crack, ensuring lifelong performance.
Moreover, James Hardie siding requires minimal maintenance. It doesn’t need to be painted frequently and can be cleaned easily with water and a mild detergent, saving you time and money on upkeep.
When it comes to maintenance, James Hardie siding is heads and shoulders above other siding options. Its ColorPlus® Technology provides a baked-on finish that resists fading, chipping, and cracking, ensuring that your home’s exterior always looks fresh and vibrant. This means you won’t have to worry about repainting your siding every few years, saving you both time and money in the long run. Additionally, James Hardie siding is non-combustible, adding an extra layer of protection and peace of mind for homeowners.
Aesthetic Appeal
James Hardie siding, allows homeowners to achieve the timeless and elegant look of wood siding without the associated maintenance issues. It comes in a variety of styles, textures, and colors, allowing homeowners to achieve any desired architectural style or aesthetic. Whether you prefer the classic charm of clapboard or the rustic appeal of shingles, James Hardie siding offers endless design possibilities.
The deep grooves and authentic wood grain patterns of James Hardie siding create a realistic wood look that adds character and charm to any home. Additionally, the ColorPlus® Technology mentioned earlier ensures that the color of your siding stays vibrant and true for years to come, enhancing the curb appeal of your home.
Cost and Value
In comparison to vinyl siding, James Hardie siding has a higher upfront cost. This is largely due to the quality of the material and difficulty of installation. Fiber cement siding must be cut and fitted with a specialty saw and is extremely heavy. Make sure you choose an experienced Kansas City siding contractor to install your James Hardie siding.
For an average size home in the Kansas City area, you can expect to pay between $20,000-$50,000 for a full James Hardie siding replacement. This is a wide range and this number can fluctuate outside of this range. The cost of siding replacement, especially when it comes to James Hardie, is dependent on a number of factors. Namely, the product you choose, installation difficulty, size of your home and more.
Considering the longevity, durability, and low maintenance requirements of James Hardie siding, it offers exceptional long-term value. Investing in James Hardie siding can significantly increase the resale value of your home and provide peace of mind knowing that your siding will stand the test of time. The superior quality and longevity of James Hardie siding make it a wise investment for homeowners looking for a durable and aesthetically pleasing siding option that will enhance the beauty and value of their home.
Key Features of Vinyl Siding
Durability and Maintenance
Vinyl siding is designed with durability in mind, offering homeowners a long-lasting exterior cladding solution. Its composition makes it highly resistant to a variety of environmental factors, including moisture, insects, and rot. This durability ensures that your home remains protected and looking great for years to come.
There are different types of vinyl siding, with each type being graded by their thickness. The advanced manufacturing techniques used in producing vinyl siding have enhanced its resistance to fading. Not all vinyl siding types and brands are not created equal. Be sure to consult with a siding professional on the different types, brands and styles and what would be a good fit for your unique home.
Aesthetic Appeal
One of the standout features of vinyl siding is its versatility in terms of aesthetics. Homeowners have a wide array of options when it comes to colors, textures, and profiles, allowing them to achieve their desired look for their homes. Whether you’re aiming for a sleek and modern facade, a classic and timeless appearance, or a charming rustic style, vinyl siding can cater to your design preferences. Its ability to replicate the look of other siding materials such as wood or stone makes it a popular choice for those seeking a specific aesthetic without the associated maintenance requirements.
Moreover, the customization options available with vinyl siding enable homeowners to personalize their exteriors to reflect their unique style and preferences.
Cost and Value
In addition to its durability and aesthetic benefits, vinyl siding is also known for its cost-effectiveness. Compared to materials like James Hardie siding, vinyl siding typically comes with lower upfront costs, making it an attractive option for homeowners on a budget.
The combination of affordability, durability, and energy efficiency makes vinyl siding a practical and cost-effective choice for homeowners looking to enhance both the appearance and functionality of their homes. Vinyl siding is a great option for homeowners on a budget or who do not plan to live in their current home long term and they won’t be able to reap the benefits of high quality siding.
High Quality James Hardie (Hardie Board) Siding Replacement in Kansas City
Both James Hardie siding vs vinyl siding have their unique advantages and considerations. Your choice ultimately depends on your personal preferences, budget, and specific requirements. Consider factors like durability, maintenance, aesthetic appeal and cost when making your decision. Siding replacement is an important decision. We always recommend getting 2-3 bids for a replacement before making a final decision.
The experts at Thermal King Windows have served the Kansas City area for over 20 years. Our technicians are experts in James Hardie installation. If you are ready to discuss your siding replacement, contact us today for a free estimate and evaluation. We’ll help you decide between James Hardie vs vinyl siding.
