Choosing siding is about more than finding a color you like. The material you put on your home’s exterior affects its appearance, maintenance requirements, durability, and how it holds up to the weather over time.
Two options that come up frequently in residential construction and remodeling are fiber cement siding and advanced composite siding. Both can deliver a durable, attractive exterior, but they have some important differences.
At All South Building Center, we carry cement siding and Everlast Advanced Composite Siding and work with homeowners, builders, and contractors throughout Anderson and Upstate South Carolina. Here’s what to consider when comparing the two.
What Is Fiber Cement Siding?
Fiber cement siding is made from a combination of cement, sand, and cellulose fibers. It has become a popular choice for homeowners and builders because it can provide the look of traditional wood siding while offering a durable exterior material.
Fiber cement is available in a variety of profiles, textures, and finishes, making it possible to achieve everything from a traditional exterior to a more modern look.
It’s also a familiar material to many contractors, particularly for new construction and replacement projects.
What Is Composite Siding?
Advanced composite siding is manufactured using engineered materials designed specifically for exterior applications.
Everlast Advanced Composite Siding, which All South carries, uses a proprietary composite substrate and a UV-resistant acrylic capstock. According to the manufacturer, its construction is designed to resist moisture, rotting, warping, corrosion, and insect damage.
Everlast also uses its CedarTouch finish to create a wood-like appearance and is available in profiles including lap and board-and-batten styles.
For homeowners looking for the appearance of traditional siding with less ongoing maintenance, composite siding can be an option worth considering.
How Do Fiber Cement and Composite Siding Compare?
The biggest differences come down to installation, maintenance, moisture resistance, and the look you’re trying to achieve.
Installation
Fiber cement is a heavier material that can require specialized tools and handling during installation. Composite siding is lighter and more flexible, which can make it easier for crews to handle and install. Everlast also uses EZStack joinery designed to simplify installation.
For builders and contractors, the installation characteristics of a siding product can have a practical impact on labor, handling, and project timelines.
Maintenance
Maintenance is another important consideration.
Fiber cement siding may require periodic painting or sealing to maintain its appearance and protect against the elements. Joints and seams may also require attention over time.
Everlast’s composite siding is designed as a low-maintenance option. The manufacturer states that it does not require painting or sealing and can generally be maintained with an occasional rinse.
For homeowners who would rather spend less time maintaining their exterior, that’s an important distinction.
Moisture and Durability
Both materials are designed for exterior use, but they respond differently to moisture.
Everlast states that its composite siding is resistant to moisture, rot, warping, corrosion, and insect damage. Its water-resistant construction is one of the primary performance characteristics the manufacturer highlights.
Fiber cement is also a durable siding material, but proper installation, sealing, and maintenance are important to its long-term performance.
Regardless of the siding material you choose, proper installation and water management around the home remain critical.
Appearance
You don’t necessarily have to sacrifice design flexibility with either option.
Fiber cement can be manufactured in wood-grain and smooth finishes and is available in profiles such as lap, shingle, and vertical panel siding.
Everlast offers wood-inspired textures as well as smooth finishes, with options such as clapboard, Dutch lap, and board and batten. Its CedarTouch finish is made from an imprint of real rough-sawn cedar to create a more authentic wood appearance.
The best choice often comes down to the architectural style of the home and the look you’re trying to achieve.
Which Siding Is Right for Your Home?
There isn’t one answer for every project.
Fiber cement may make sense if:
- You want a proven siding material with a wide range of styles
- You’re comfortable with periodic maintenance
- You’re working with a contractor familiar with fiber cement installation
- You want a traditional wood-look exterior
Composite siding may be worth considering if:
- Low maintenance is a priority
- You want a wood-like appearance
- Moisture resistance is important
- You want a lighter, easier-to-handle siding material
- You’re interested in profiles such as lap or board and batten
The right decision depends on the home, the project, the budget, and how much maintenance you’re willing to take on over time.
Choosing Siding Is About More Than the Siding
Your siding is one piece of a much larger exterior system.
Windows, exterior doors, roofing, trim, and other materials all contribute to how a home looks and how well it performs. That’s why it’s helpful to consider the entire exterior when selecting siding, not just the individual product.
At All South Building Center, our team works with homeowners, builders, and contractors throughout Anderson and Upstate South Carolina to help with siding and other exterior building materials. We carry cement siding and Everlast Advanced Composite Siding, giving customers the opportunity to compare different solutions based on the needs of their project.
If you’re planning a new build, renovation, or siding replacement project, talk with All South Building Center about your siding options and find the material that’s right for your home.