Vinyl vs. Fiber Cement Siding: What’s Best for Commercial Buildings in North Carolina?

Climate Compatibility and Performance

Vinyl Siding

This plastic-based siding material resists moisture absorption and will not rot under humid conditions. That being said, it’s more prone to warping or softening when installed too close to high temperature sources. In extreme UV exposure, the color of your siding can fade over time; in extreme cold, it can get brittle and crack under impact.

Fiber Cement Siding

This material is made from cement, sand, and cellulose fibers. It offers more dimensional stability, resisting warping, shrinking, or swelling under heat or humidity. Plus, it doesn’t fade in the face of UV rays, especially when it’s been factory finished with quality coatings. This non-combustible material also resists pests such as termites.

In general, fiber cement handles heat, humidity, storms, and UV stress in North Carolina better than vinyl in the long run.

Longevity and Durability

Vinyl Siding

Vinyl siding can last between 20 and 30 years with good maintenance. Higher-end vinyl profiles and insulated vinyl can last longer. However, exposure to hail, thermal cycling, or impact damage can detract from service life.

Fiber Cement Siding

Fiber cement siding can last between 30 and 50 years with proper installation and upkeep. It can withstand the effects of storms, impacts, termites, and fire. Due to its thicker and more robust construction, it can resist wear even under commercial conditions.

If you’re looking to minimize rework and need reliable durability for your commercial building, fiber cement is a good long-term solution.

Maintenance and Upkeep

Vinyl Siding

Vinyl is low maintenance, which is a big benefit. All you need to clean it is some soap and water. It never needs to be repainted. Plus, the pigment of vinyl goes all the way through.

Fiber Cement Siding

This material requires more care, such as repainting every 10–15 years and occasional caulking. But due to its robust structure, maintenance tasks are more cosmetic than structural.

In commercial settings where maintenance costs could be high, vinyl is a cost efficient choice.

Installation, Weight and Labor

Vinyl Siding

Lightweight and easy to install, vinyl siding comes with lower labor costs. And because panels are easier to handle and cut, vinyl is conducive to larger facades.

Fiber Cement Siding

Heavier and more labor-intensive to install, fiber cement generates silica dust when cut, requiring contractors to take safety precautions and use specialized tools – both of which increase cost and complexity.

If you opt for fiber cement, you will have to plan for these extra costs when siding your commercial building.

Aesthetic and Architectural Flexibility

Vinyl Siding

While vinyl boasts a wide range of colors and textures, it may appear more “manufactured” than other materials. Color changes may require full panel replacement.

Fiber Cement Siding

With the ability to mimic wood, stucco, or other high-end siding styles, fiber cement can easily be repainted. It brings an upscale look and design versatility as well.

If you prioritize architectural appearance and brand impression, such as for the retail, office, and hospitality industries, fiber cement would be the way to go.

Cost and Return on Investment

Vinyl Siding

Vinyl’s upfront costs for material and labor are lower.

Fiber Cement Siding

Fiber cement costs more outright but has a longer lifespan. If you’re looking for a strong long-term ROI for your commercial building, fiber cement would be a better option.

In the end, fiber cement siding generally outperforms vinyl in terms of durability, climate resilience, aesthetic flexibility, and long-term value for commercial buildings in North Carolina. However, vinyl still has a place for budget-conscious components or auxiliary structures.

Contact Redeem Roofing

Need more guidance on which siding to choose? Contact us for a free quote and consultation today.