One of the most dramatic exterior remodel projects you can undertake is replacing your siding. It instantly increases curb appeal and instills a sense of pride in you as the owner of the home. When you are ready to sell, you can expect to get back a high percentage of what you spent to have the job done. The annual Cost vs. Value survey done by Remodeling Magazine shows that the rate of return in the mountain states is 75.1% for fiber cement siding and 85% for vinyl siding.
Although there are many ways to beautify your home with new siding such as stucco, wood, or brick, for most people the choice comes down to vinyl or fiber cement. Both vinyl and fiber cement are great choices, but it’s important to understand the difference when making your decision.
An Exterior Remodel with Vinyl Siding
Vinyl is the most popular siding in the country because it is attractive, low maintenance, versatile, and cost effective. Here are a few things you should know about vinyl siding:
- Modern vinyl siding comes in dozens of colors and in shake and shingle styles, along with plain pieces for horizontal or vertical installation.
- No repainting is necessary or even recommended. Annual power washing usually does the job of keeping it looking great. Although special paints are available, painting takes away from the low maintenance appeal and it will have to be painted again in time.
- Vinyl is durable and resistant to rot and insect infestation, although it can crack or melt if abused. However, it is more dent resistant than metal siding as it can better flex and absorb energy. It can last up to 35 years.
- At $2-$7 per square foot installed, it remains an economical choice. Remodeling Magazine notes that to replace 1,250 square feet of existing siding with new vinyl siding, including all trim, costs around $11,370 in Utah and surrounding states.
Upping the Game with Fiber Cement Siding
Fiber cement siding, composed of Portland cement, wood fiber, sand, water, and additives, costs more to buy and install than vinyl, but gives a realistic wood look that homeowners love. Here are some things you should know about fiber cement siding:
- The product comes in primed, unpainted form or in pre-painted styles with baked-on finishes that are guaranteed for at least 15 years. Because fiber cement is dimensionally stable, the paint adheres to it better than it does with wood. Repainting will be necessary in time, but fiber cement will look better longer.
- Fiber cement resists fire, impact, insects, and rot, so long as you install a proper vapor barrier. Some products come with a manufacturer warranty of up to 50 years when properly installed by a certified contractor.
- With fiber cement, you can expect to pay $6-12 per square foot, as the product is more costly to buy and is challenging to install due to its weight. Remodeling Magazine says that to replace 1,250 square feet of existing siding with new fiber-cement siding, factory primed and factory painted, costs about $13,274 in Utah.
If you’re considering replacing your siding as part of your next exterior remodel, contact Mountain States Windows and Siding for top quality products and installation.
