Siding
Vinyl vs Fiber Cement Siding in Massachusetts
Choosing between vinyl and fiber cement siding is the biggest decision in most exterior renovations. Both perform well in New England, but they win in different ways. Here is how they compare on the factors that matter most.
Upfront cost
Installed vinyl siding in the Boston area runs about $6 to $10 per square foot. Fiber cement, most commonly James Hardie, runs about $10 to $16 per square foot installed. For a 2,000 square foot home, that difference typically adds $8,000 to $14,000 to the project.
Durability in New England weather
Fiber cement resists impact, fire, and coastal salt air better than vinyl and holds paint for 15 plus years. Vinyl handles snow and rain well but can crack in a hard freeze or from a stray baseball. Both need proper flashing and moisture barriers to protect the sheathing behind them.
Look and resale value
Fiber cement gives you a crisp, painted wood look that most buyers and appraisers value more than vinyl. In Boston area sales, homes with fiber cement often appraise $10,000 to $25,000 higher than comparable vinyl homes. Modern insulated vinyl looks better than the vinyl of 20 years ago, though, and can be a strong choice on rentals or budget sensitive projects.
Maintenance
Vinyl is close to zero maintenance beyond an occasional wash. Fiber cement holds up for a decade or more between paint cycles. Neither requires the constant scraping and repainting that cedar clapboards need.
