Considering getting new siding for your home? Choosing the right siding material is one of the most important decisions you can make for your home’s exterior. Not only does the siding affect curb appeal but also impacts how your home will withstand weather, moisture, and the test of time. As a South Jersey roofing and siding contractor, TA Hughes helps homeowners like yourself select siding that suits your budget, style, and maintenance needs. Three common materials—vinyl, wood, and fiber cement—have advantages as siding. Let’s learn more about these materials so you can make the best choice for your home. 

Key Takeaways

• Vinyl siding is affordable, low maintenance, and available in many styles, but may crack or fade over time and offers lower resale value compared to other materials.
• Wood siding provides a natural, traditional look and is easily repaired or customized, but it requires regular upkeep and is more vulnerable to moisture and pests.
• Fiber cement siding is durable, weather-resistant, and mimics the look of wood with less maintenance, though it comes with higher upfront costs and heavier installation.
• Choosing the right siding depends on your priorities, including cost, appearance, maintenance commitment, and long-term durability.

Vinyl Siding

Among homeowners, vinyl siding is popular for many reasons. It’s cost-effective, widely available in a range of colors and styles, and easy to install. You can even find vinyl siding in a wide range of textures, giving you plenty of design flexibility. 

Vinyl siding also has plenty of benefits. It’s low maintenance and requires zero painting. Because of the way the material is fabricated, vinyl is resistant to rot, moisture, and pests. It’s also lightweight and budget-friendly, while balancing that with many insulation options to give you the best energy-efficiency for your home. 

However, vinyl can become brittle over time, especially in extreme temperatures, and may crack or fade. It also may not add as much resale value as more premium materials.

Wood Siding

Wood siding offers a warm, timeless look that’s hard to replicate. From cedar shingles to horizontal lap siding, wood provides a rich texture and traditional feel that fits beautifully with many South Jersey homes, especially older or historic properties.

Wood siding may be best for your home if you like the following advantages:

• Naturally beautiful and customizable with stains and paint
• Biodegradable and eco-friendly
• Easy to repair or replace, even as smaller sections

That said, wood requires regular maintenance. You’ll need to repaint or restain every few years and keep an eye out for signs of rot, termites, or mold. Moisture is the biggest concern, especially in New Jersey’s humid summers and wet winters.

Fiber Cement Siding

Do you want a premium, low maintenance option that provides excellent weather protection? Fiber cement may be for you. Fiber cement siding, like James Hardie® products, offers the look of wood with enhanced durability. It’s made from a mix of cement, sand, and cellulose fibers, which makes it incredibly tough and long-lasting. This material stands up well to South Jersey’s seasonal weather changes, including snow, rain, wind, and sun.

Fiber cement comes with the following benefits:

• Highly resistant to fire, pests, and moisture
• Extremely durable, often lasting more than 30 years 
• Mimics the look of wood without the same level of maintenance
• Resists fading

However, you must consider the two drawbacks: the upfront cost and weight. Fiber cement is heavier than vinyl or wood, leading to a higher labor cost. That said, the long-term performance and low maintenance needs balances out the initial investment.

Vinyl vs. Wood vs. Fiber Cement: Which is Best for You?

The right siding depends on your goals, budget, and how much maintenance you’re comfortable with. Here’s a quick comparison:

Vinyl
• Cost: Low
• Maintenance: Very low
• Durability: Moderate
• Curb Appeal: Good (many styles)

Wood
• Cost: Moderate
• Maintenance: High
• Durability: Moderate
• Curb Appeal: High (natural look)

Fiber Cement
• Cost: High
• Maintenance: Low to moderate
• Durability: Very high
• Curb Appeal: High (wood-like)

Still unsure? TA Hughes can help you weigh your options. We’ll inspect your home, talk through your goals, and recommend siding that will enhance both protection and aesthetics.

Trust South Jersey Siding Contractor TA Hughes

Choosing the right siding material will make all the difference in how the siding performs and looks over time. For over 35 years, TA Hughes has helped South Jersey homeowners upgrade their siding, roofing, and exterior systems with high-quality workmanship and lasting materials. Whether you’re replacing aging siding or choosing materials for a new construction project, we’ll guide you through every step with clear recommendations and honest advice.

Call us today at 856-845-8505 or fill out our online contact form to schedule a siding consultation. Let’s make your home look great and keep it protected for decades to come.