There’s more to choosing siding for your home than improving its curb appeal. You have to consider your budget, preferred aesthetic, and location.
In Edmonton, Alberta, your choice of siding is particularly important, as homes must withstand freezing temperatures, snow, hail, strong winds, moisture, and significant seasonal changes.
If you’re considering revamping your home’s exterior, vinyl siding vs Hardie Board are two popular options. They offer different advantages in cost, durability, appeal, maintenance, and long-term value.
Vinyl Siding vs. James Hardie Siding: At a Glance
Here’s a quick James Hardie vs vinyl siding comparison that may help:
| Feature | Vinyl Siding | Hardie Siding |
| Upfront cost | Generally cheaper | Costs about twice as much as vinyl |
| Material | PVC-based plastic | Fibre cement |
| Maintenance | Low | Minimal upkeep but may require repainting |
| Durability | Good, but can crack or warp when exposed to extreme conditions | Excellent resistance to impact, temperature changes, and pests |
| Expected Longevity | Can last 30 to 40 years when installed and maintained correctly | Can last 30 to 50 years on average |
| Best for | Affordability and low maintenance | Durability and long-term performance |
Let It Flow is a trusted provider of vinyl and James Hardie siding installation, repair, and replacement services in Edmonton, Alberta.
What Is Vinyl Siding?
Vinyl siding is a lightweight exterior cladding option for home siding. Many vinyl siding brands are made from PVC (polyvinyl chloride).
These panels are a great option for installing on your property’s exterior to protect it from the elements and lend an attractive, polished appearance.
One reason for vinyl’s popularity is its relatively lower cost. It’s also available in many colours and profiles, which include traditional lap siding, Dutch lap, board and batten, and cedar shake designs.
With numerous configuration options, homeowners can easily find a style and shade matching their preferred curb aesthetic.
Pros & Cons of Vinyl Siding
Pros:
- A cheaper option with low upfront cost
- Doesn’t require complicated maintenance
- Vinyl colours are solid through the material and don’t need repainting
- The material doesn’t rot or attract pests
- Available in many colours, shapes, textures, and profiles
- Effortless to clean with a garden hose
- Damaged panels are more convenient to replace individually
- Can be insulated to improve thermal performance
Cons:
- Can become brittle and crack in freezing temperatures
- Direct heat or constant sunlight exposure may warp or melt vinyl
- Vulnerable to hail and impact damage
- Some colours may fade over time (depending on the brand)
- Doesn’t provide as much fire resistance as fibre cement
What Is James Hardie (Fibre Cement) Siding?
James Hardie siding, also called Hardie boards, is constructed from a mixture of cement, water, sand, and wood fibres. This composite material is exceptionally durable and flexible, providing a reliable exterior finish.
As they’re made of cement, Hardie boards are rigid and heavy. That means installation requires proper handling and expertise.
The extra weight, however, contributes to the sturdy look that many homeowners prefer.
It’s worth noting that James Hardie is a brand and not a generic name for fibre cement siding. That said, the company manufactures products designed for various climates (Hardiezone system).
They have siding for freezing or wet regions, as well as for dry and humid locations. In Edmonton, where winter can become long and harsh, James Hardie’s HZ5 siding may be suitable.
Pros & Cons of James Hardie Siding
Pros:
- Provides enhanced moisture resistance
- Designed to withstand freezing temperatures, snow, ice, and hail
- Fibre cement composite is non-combustible
- Resists pests, such as termites
- Beautiful, premium-looking appearance mimicking wood grains
- Available in climate-specific modifications to suit your location
- Some products come with decades-long warranties
Cons:
- Significantly more expensive than vinyl siding
- Heavier and may require hiring a professional to install
- Depending on the finish, some fibre cement may need to be repainted
- Fibre cement has low thermal value and acts more as a protective shell
Vinyl Siding vs. James Hardie Board: Key Differences
Either siding material can be an excellent choice for your home. But there are some key differences you should consider before calling a contractor.
Cost
First is Hardie board vs vinyl siding cost.
Vinyl is the more budget-friendly option, with installation costs ranging from $5 to $13 per square foot, labour included. If you own a standard 2,000-square-foot home exterior, you can expect to pay about $10,000 to $30,000.
Some factors that could influence how much you need to invest include the quality and type of vinyl, and your choice of installer. If you didn’t have your old siding removed, it can also add to your overall bill.
Fibre cement siding installation typically costs $10 to $27 per square foot. That’s because they’re heavier, more complex, and labour-intensive than lightweight vinyl.
In comparison, a project involving a typical 2,000-square-foot wall space may cost you around $18,000 to $50,000. Two-storey homes may include scaffolding fees as well.
Durability
Fibre cement is typically more rigid, which means it can resist many forms of impact, including hail and windblown debris.
Alberta, for one, is historically known for its massive hail storms, so if durability is a priority for you, James Hardie siding could be the better choice.
That said, vinyl can still provide substantial protection against your regular weather. Some vinyl formulations also have protective additives to minimize UV damage.
Maintenance
Both vinyl and fibre cement are relatively low maintenance.
PVC vinyl doesn’t need painting, staining, or sealing like wooden siding. Cleaning with water once or twice a year is enough to maintain its appearance.
However, because the material is thin, homeowners must periodically check for cracks and warps. Damaged panels can be swapped out individually, which is convenient.
Similarly, James Hardie siding requires little routine care. Power washing the siding with a low-pressure water hose and a soft brush twice a year is generally sufficient.
The brand’s ColorPlus Technology also helps in averting fading and other common finish issues. But homeowners must inspect caulking and joints annually for damage.
Proper maintenance around exposed edges and similar areas where moisture can be a problem is needed.
Appearance and Design Options
Vinyl has plenty of design and texture options. Modern products can mimic wood grains and come in varying profiles and colours.
On the other hand, James Hardie siding is primarily known for its realistic wood-like aesthetic, suitable for both modern and classical architectures.
Weather and Climate Performance
The City of Edmonton identifies hailstorms, flash floods, freezing rain, high winds, and extreme heat as common climate hazards its residents must prepare for. This is why choosing the right siding material is important.
Vinyl, if installed and maintained appropriately, can provide good protection against the elements—but it has limitations.
For Edmonton homeowners, thicker, gauge vinyls may be a better alternative because they’re more resistant to warping and cracking than standard products.
On the other hand, Hardie boards have an advantage against extreme weather as they’re thicker and less susceptible to impacts.
Lifespan and Long-Term Value
The actual lifespan of either vinyl or fibre cement depends on the product quality, installation, weather exposure, and maintenance.
On average, PVC siding can last anywhere from 20 to 40 years, even longer if insulated and professionally installed.
Fitted by a licensed contractor, James Hardie siding boards can easily serve your home for 30 to 50 years or more. Moreover, the company usually offers a 30-year warranty for its products, including siding.
Which Siding Is Better for Edmonton Homes?
Both vinyl and James Hardie siding can be excellent for your home depending on your needs.
Choose Vinyl Siding If…
If you live in an area with relatively mild weather, opting for PVC can be a great option to keep your renovation expenses at a minimum.
Choose vinyl siding if:
- You prefer a low-maintenance home exterior
- You want to keep cost as low as possible
- You need more colour and profile options
- You’re comfortable with replacing damaged panels over time
That said, we’d still recommend choosing a higher-quality vinyl brand, such as insulated or thicker panels, and finding a reliable installer to set up the siding.
Choose James Hardie Siding If…
What makes James Hardie siding attractive is its durability and reliable performance against harsh weather and fluctuating temperatures.
Choose James Hardie siding if:
- You’re okay with investing more in installation and replacements
- You live in an area that’s frequently exposed to strong wind, hail, and other severe weather
- You live near wildfire-risk areas and fireproofing your home is a major priority
- You prefer its premium, wood-like aesthetic
Is James Hardie Siding Worth the Extra Cost?
The higher cost of James Hardie siding can be worth it—but it ultimately depends on what you’re looking for.
If the goal is simply to improve your property’s curb appeal, then vinyl can still be an attractive choice. No need to pay a premium for features you won’t need.
However, if durability and protection against Edmonton’s moody weather are more important, then spending more may well be worth the additional investment.
Which Siding Should You Choose?
Choosing between vinyl and James Hardie siding can be challenging, especially when both products have their advantages.
Before committing, ask yourself a few questions:
What is your budget? Are you just looking to improve your curb appeal? How much maintenance are you willing to handle? How concerned are you about your area’s weather?
Depending on your answers, you’ll have a better idea of which siding best suits your home.
Some homeowners may find vinyl the better choice because it’s affordable and easier to maintain, offering superb value for their money. Others may want to invest in premium durability with James Hardie.
Get Expert Siding Installation with Let It Flow Exteriors
Choosing between vinyl vs Hardie board siding is only the first step. Next, you want to find a reliable installer to make sure you get the most out of your curb investment.
Let It Flow offers expert vinyl and James Hardie siding removal, installation, and replacement services in Edmonton, Alberta, and the surrounding communities. We have served hundreds of satisfied homeowners and offer a five-year workmanship guarantee.
Request a quote and give your home a fresh look today!
FAQs
Is James Hardie siding better than vinyl siding?
Yes, James Hardie siding is generally sturdier than lightweight vinyl, but it typically costs more because it’s more complex to install.
Is James Hardie siding more expensive than vinyl?
Hardie boards cost more per square foot than vinyl siding, but your overall expense can vary based on the quality of material and size of your home.
Which siding requires less maintenance?
Vinyl is easier to maintain, but James Hardie siding generally lasts longer.
Which siding is better for Edmonton weather?
Edmonton frequently experiences severe weather, including hailstorms, strong winds, and long winters, making the added protection of Hardie boards worth considering.