Let's put these durable siding solutions head-to-head
Metal and fiber cement siding are highly durable solutions that can last over 50 years.
Metal siding offers more cost flexibility and installation options than fiber cement siding.
Fiber cement siding is a popular asbestos siding replacement that can mimic other siding styles.
If you've decided to veer off the traditional track of wood or vinyl siding, you may end up comparing the pros, cons, and cost of standing seam metal vs. fiber cement siding. Both options shine in the durability and longevity categories, but otherwise, they share little else. Get to know how homeowners make the tricky choice when it comes to these popular siding options.
Metal and fiber cement siding come from two distinct materials but share several perks. They are both highly durable—lasting over 50 years on average—and are fire-and pest-resistant and are relatively easy to maintain.
That being said, homeowners can choose from multiple types of metal siding while fiber cement siding comes from a varying combination of cement, sand, and cellulose fibers. In other words, homeowners have more options and have better control over their costs for metal siding compared to fiber cement.
Metal siding refers to standing seam or corrugated designs made of aluminum, copper, steel, tin, or zinc. While you may be picturing a rather stark, industrial-style home, metal siding is very versatile for both modern and rustic homes. For one thing, it's easy to paint metal siding and some designs imitate the look of vinyl siding. That being said, there are plenty of pros and cons of metal siding and it is certainly not for everyone.
| Pros | Cons |
|---|---|
| Low-cost options available | Not right for all aesthetics |
| Can last 100+ years | May be prone to rust |
| Fire resistant | May be prone to dents |
| Pest resistant | Can be noisy |
| Recyclable | Varying efficiency levels |
Best for:
Modern or industrial-style homes
Homes in wildfire-prone regions
DIY-friendly home siding
The cost of metal siding ranges from $1 to $35 per square foot. The large price difference accounts for everything from low-cost tin to expensive copper. Homeowners, therefore, have a choice to balance their costs with durability and longevity.
Metal siding earns a high fire rating, isn't prone to nibbling pests, and is an eco-conscious siding choice. In some cases, advanced DIYers can even install some types of metal siding themselves, though it's still best to work with a siding professional to avoid gaps and future issues.
The style of metal siding certainly doesn't blend with all homes or aesthetic preferences. Also, it's crucial to pick the right type of metal siding for your area. Steel siding is prone to rust after a long period of time and tin can dent or corrode in hail- and storm-prone areas. Metal also has a varying level of heat and cold efficiency and often requires significant insulation to increase its R-value.
Fiber cement siding took on in home design toward the end of the 20th century when homebuilders needed an alternative to asbestos siding. Commonly referred to as Hardie Board—referencing a popular brand name—the material combines a unique mixture of cellulose, sand, and cement to create a highly durable and versatile material. While popular, fiber cement siding has its pros and cons and requires some forethought to install.
| Pros | Cons |
|---|---|
| Ideal replacement for asbestos siding | Price is unpredictable |
| Can imitate countless styles | Not recyclable |
| Highly durable for over 50 years | Very heavy |
| Fire-resistant | Difficult to install |
| Pest-resistant | Prone to mold and rot |
Best for:
Homes in fire and pest-prone areas
Balancing style with durability
Regions with extreme weather
The unique combination of these three strong binding materials makes fiber cement a long-lasting modern solution for a range of homes. Additionally, it's versatile and easy to customize, making it a great fit for everything from Dutch Colonials to updated Craftsmans. Fiber cement has a Class A fire rating like metal siding and its density means that pests—even termites—can't make their way through.
Fiber cement requires professional and specialized installation for a few reasons. For one, the material absorbs water, so if there are gaps in the siding, you could end up with mold or rot issues. Another common fiber cement problem is that it doesn't hang on to paint well, meaning you'll need to refresh the coat every decade or so. Perhaps most notably, the cost of fiber cement siding ranges from $2 to $15 per square foot, depending on its shape and the fluctuation of market trends.
Even though these siding materials are quite different, homeowners seeking highly durable options will often place them side by side. Let's see which side wins in each category.
Metal siding wins in this category for two reasons. Prices for metal siding options fall anywhere from $1 to $35 per square foot. In most cases, the more you pay, the more durable the metal will be against corrosion, salty air, rust, and extreme temperatures. Fiber cement siding may have a lower cost range from $2 to $15 per square foot, but the price primarily fluctuates by brand and availability.
Fiber cement is the great imitator when it comes to siding options. It can look like stone shingles, wood siding, and even brick. Fiber cement can technically imitate metal if you wish. That being said, if you're seeking the look of metal siding, you'll likely save money and time on maintenance by going with the real thing.
Both varieties require a local professional siding contractor, particularly one who specializes in that material. However, there are some types of metal siding that are lightweight enough to install on your own when necessary. Fiber cement installation is not a DIY project, both due to its weight and density.
Metal and fiber cement siding can both last over 50 years when properly maintained. We have a tie in this category because metal siding longevity depends on the material. All types other than tin siding can last over half a century while zinc and copper can last 100 years, if not more. Fiber cement siding averages about 50 years when properly maintained. Additionally, both metal and fiber cement siding perform well against fire and pests.
While some of the lower-cost metal sidings can be prone to rust, corrosion, and fading, they generally maintain their original strength with less fuss compared to fiber cement. Fiber cement notoriously absorbs moisture, which if poorly installed, can lead to mold. Additionally, you'll need to update the coat of paint every 10 years or so to maintain its original sheen.
Yet again, metal takes the cake in the category since homeowners can source recycled materials and recycle the siding after replacement. Fiber cement is not inherently unfriendly to the environment since it lasts a long time and doesn't emit VOCs, but it is not recyclable.
