So, you're ready to upgrade your home's siding but don't know which material to choose. You've come to the right place if you're debating between fiber cement siding and aluminum siding. While each material may provide similarly energy-efficient results, they vary greatly in style, durability, and maintenance.
At Nelson Exteriors in Atlanta, GA, we specialize in installing James Hardie board siding designed to increase your property's value and energy efficiency. Below, we outline everything you need to know about selecting the right siding material for your property based on our 40 years of experience in the industry. When your ready to start your siding project, call Nelson Exteriors at 678-283-8171 for a free estimate.
What Is Fiber Cement Siding?
Fiber cement siding is a low-maintenance, long-lasting, environmentally friendly material made from cellulose fibers, water, and sand. The result is flexible for extreme temperature fluctuations, highly resistant to water and impacts, and energy efficient.
Fiber cement siding comes in many colors, textures, and shingle patterns, including wood-like finishes, to match practically any home aesthetic. To learn more, be sure to read our post, "Fiber Cement Siding Pros and Cons."
Interested in getting a quote for fiber cement siding for your home in the Atlanta area? Contact Nelson Exteriors today for a free consultation!
What Is Aluminum Siding?
Aluminum siding is known for its durability, low maintenance, and resistance to rust and corrosion. It is often used as an alternative to traditional wood or vinyl siding and can come in various styles and colors to enhance the appearance of a building.
Aluminum siding often looks similar to basic vinyl siding, though it
contains recycled aluminum coil material coated with corrosion-proof
chemicals for better temperature resistance than vinyl.
Fiber Cement Siding vs. Aluminum Siding: Key Considerations
Now that you know the difference between fiber cement siding and aluminum siding, let's discuss how you can select the right material for your home. We recommend considering the following factors.
Appearance
Curb appeal directly impacts your home's value and return on investment. Fiber cement and aluminum siding offer different appearances to consider.
To start, aluminum siding typically only comes in horizontal panels without texture options. While you can choose different colors, the result will look like metal. Over time, aluminum siding tends to fade, giving your home a dull appearance.
Fiber cement siding, on the other hand, comes in various colors, styles, and textures to mimic numerous natural finishes. Our James Hardie Elite Preferred contractors can select and install tiles highlighting your home's architectural features to make it stand out as the most luxurious home on the block. Possible arrangements include the following:
- Horizontal siding
- Board and batten
- Architectural reveal panels
- Classic or rustic shingles
- Octagonal or other decorative shingles
Durability and Longevity
Many falsely assume that metal would be the most durable siding material on the market. Unfortunately, aluminum siding can easily dent from impacts like hail, stray golf balls, or flying debris during a windstorm.
Fiber cement siding is impact-resistant and can withstand all of the same weather patterns as aluminum (freeze-thaw cycles, heavy rain, etc.).
While aluminum may last up to 20 or 40 years, heavy-duty James Hardie siding will stand strong for potentially decades beyond this lifespan. The installation costs may be a bit higher but will quickly make up for themselves in savings over time. If you're planning on selling your home, fiber cement siding is a fantastic addition for maximizing your return on investment.
Maintenance
Aluminum siding requires more expensive maintenance than fiber cement. From routine cleanings, chemical costs, to paint touch ups and damage repairs, the maintenance costs add up! If your aluminum siding is painted, you should hire exterior painters regularly to refresh the finish every 5-10 years. At Nelson Exteriors, we offer both painting and siding services when you need us most!
If you want to avoid repair costs and maintenance requirements for your exterior side walls, fiber cement siding is likely for you. The material requires minimal upkeep and will last as long as 50 years.
Our Experience-Backed Recommendation
At Nelson Exteriors, we have over 40 years of experience installing siding for homes and commercial buildings, so we've worked with all the top options on the market. We only install the highest-quality materials designed to perform well, look great, and last long. James Hardie's fiber cement siding products offer the following advantages:
- Flexible style options
- Easy and affordable installation
- Ideal durability and longevity
- Minimal maintenance
- Energy efficiency
When considering fiber cement siding versus aluminum siding, the winner is clear. For professional siding installation and replacement services in Atlanta, GA, Call Nelson Exteriors today at 678-283-8171. Let us provide you with a free quote!