Siding Guide
Vinyl vs Fiber Cement Siding: Cost, Lifespan and Upkeep
By Dioclecio Gomes, Founder & Owner3 min readUpdated October 2, 2026
In This Guide
Vinyl costs less up front and fiber cement costs more but is built to last longer. In Massachusetts, vinyl on a typical colonial runs $8,000 to $16,000 installed and James Hardie fiber cement runs $15,000 to $28,000. This Old House says fiber cement can last 50 years with proper installation, and James Hardie rates it Class A for fire.
Vinyl vs fiber cement siding is mostly a trade between price and longevity. The comparison below draws on This Old House, Bob Vila and James Hardie, a fiber cement manufacturer whose claims are the maker's view, plus our own installed pricing.
Which Costs More, Vinyl or Fiber Cement?
Fiber cement. Our installed Massachusetts pricing is $8,000 to $16,000 for vinyl and $15,000 to $28,000 for James Hardie on a typical 1,500 to 2,000 square foot colonial. Nationally, Bob Vila reports a vinyl average of $11,451 and This Old House a fiber cement average of $14,674.
| Vinyl | Fiber cement | |
|---|---|---|
| Installed in Massachusetts (ours) | $8,000 to $16,000 | $15,000 to $28,000 |
| National average | $11,451 | $14,674 |
| Lifespan | Decades, depending on climate and care (Bob Vila) | Up to 50 years, 30 year warranty (This Old House) |
| Fire | n/a | Noncombustible, Class A (James Hardie) |
| Repainting | n/a | About $2.50 per sq ft (This Old House) |
Which Lasts Longer?
Fiber cement, by the published numbers. This Old House says it can last 50 years with proper installation and that manufacturers offer a 30 year warranty. Bob Vila says vinyl can last for decades depending on climate, quality and maintenance, without giving a single figure.
Which Handles Fire and Pests Better?
James Hardie says its fiber cement is noncombustible and has a Class A fire rating when tested to ASTM E84, and that it holds little appeal for pests. This Old House lists fire, moisture, warp, pest and rot resistance among fiber cement's strengths.
Which Needs More Upkeep?
Fiber cement needs more. This Old House recommends hosing it down every six to 12 months and checking the joints, and puts repainting at around $2.50 per square foot. Bob Vila does not list a repainting cost for vinyl.
Choosing between vinyl and fiber cement?
We bring samples, measure the house and give you a written price for each option.
Get a Free Siding EstimateIs One Harder to Install?
Fiber cement is. This Old House notes that it requires professional installation and that cutting it releases hazardous dust, so the crew needs the right tools and protection.
Which Should You Choose?
Pick vinyl when budget is the priority and you want low upkeep. Pick fiber cement when you plan to stay long, want the longest lifespan and a more substantial look, and accept the higher cost and periodic repainting. Either way, the price in your quote depends on trim, sheathing repairs and roof lines. Our siding cost guide breaks those down.
The Bottom Line
Vinyl is the lower-cost choice at $8,000 to $16,000, and fiber cement is the longer-lived choice at $15,000 to $28,000. We install both and can show you real samples at a free in-home visit. Get a Free Siding Estimate
FAQ
Is fiber cement better than vinyl siding?
It is more durable by the published numbers. This Old House says it can last 50 years, and James Hardie rates it Class A for fire. Vinyl costs less and needs less upkeep, so better depends on budget and how long you will stay.
How much more does fiber cement cost than vinyl?
In Massachusetts, fiber cement runs $15,000 to $28,000 against $8,000 to $16,000 for vinyl on a typical colonial. Nationally, This Old House puts fiber cement at $5 to $14 per square foot.
Does fiber cement siding need to be repainted?
Eventually yes. This Old House puts repainting at around $2.50 per square foot and recommends rinsing the siding every six to 12 months.