Many homeowners find themselves struggling to choose between metal vs cement siding for their homes. The differences between metal siding vs cement siding begin with installation. Fiber cement siding requires special tools to cut the material which in turn cause the release a toxic silica dust.
Other issues to weigh between metal siding vs fiber cement siding are the amount of painting and caulking required and each material’s resistance to water damage. Cement siding is a heavy and durable material but with limitations.
We’ve provided the chart below to make your own fiber cement siding comparison. If you have questions after reviewing, we’d love to speak with you.
| Feature |
EDCO Metal Siding |
Fiber Cement Siding |
| Moisture |
- Does not absorb water
- Will not swell, decompose or develop mold over time
|
- Not water proof
- Contains high moisture content when manufactured. Shrinkage will happen over time leaving gaps between panels
- If not installed properly, gap clearances can create serious moisture concerns
|
| Appearance |
- Realistic wood grain look
|
|
| Warranty |
- Lifetime non-prorated limited warranty that is transferrable
- Includes material and labor
|
- 30-year limited warranty when installed properly
- Factory finish comes with a 15-year warranty against flaking or fading
|
| Fire Resistance |
- Not susceptible to deformation from exposure to heat sources
- Non-combustible
|
- Composed of 90% sand which makes it fire resistant but not fire proof
|
| Installation |
- Little to no caulking required
- Overlapping of siding panels allows for expansion and contraction due to temperature changes
- No nailheads are exposed
|
- Recaulking might be needed every few years
- Proper respiration is required when cutting fiber cements as it generates silica dust which is toxic to breathe
- Cut ends need to be painted
|
| Sustainability |
- Manufactured with at least 25% recycled steel
- 100% recyclable
|
|
| Weight |
- Approx. 100 lbs per 100 sq. feet
|
- Approx. 300 lbs per 100 sq. feet
|
| Durability |
- Easily acclimates to any weather condition and will not chip, crack or peel
|
- Rigid and can crack or chip
|
| Hail and Fade Protection |
- 35-year fade warranty
- 50-year hail protection
|
- Factory finish comes with a 15-year warranty against flaking or fading
|
| Maintenance |
- Little to no maintenance required
|
- Requires periodic painting
|