Choosing the right type of siding will be important when enhancing and protecting the exterior of the home. For Calgary homeowners, deciding what type of siding to use is a balance of aesthetics and performance, durability, and value over the many years. Calgary’s dramatic weather changes, from cold winters to hot summers, warrants a siding material that will withstand and not simply serve aesthetic purposes. For Calgary homeowners, the most common siding options are vinyl siding and fiber cement siding, also known as Hardie siding.  

Both types of siding are different in cost, maintenance, and longevity. Because of the climate, performance of each siding type must be considered to assist in the decision that best matches the home’s design style and will last in the long run.  

Vinyl Siding  

Vinyl siding is made of polyvinyl chloride (PVC) resin and, graduated with color enhancers, flexibility, and durability additives. Lightweight, affordable and with multiple design options, vinyl siding is common in residential construction throughout North America.  

The Benefits of Vinyl Siding  

Vinyl siding’s value as a cost effective cladding option best complements its low initial price. As a result, homeowners looking to economically enhance a home’s exterior will find vinyl siding to be a most appealing option.

Low Maintenance

Vinyl products, unlike wood siding, don’t need to be painted, stained, or sealed. To maintain appearance, simply clean with water and a mild detergent. Occasional cleanings usually suffice for maintenance. This is perfect for people who enjoy a low maintenance lifestyle.  

Variety of Styles and Colors

Achieve any architectural style with the profuse variety of colors and textures of vinyl siding. Traditional lap siding to shakes, board-and-batten designs, and any style in between are all possible.  

Weather Resistance  

Quality vinyl siding are able to take the abuse of Calgary’s unpredictable weather, UV, and moisture. Vinyl siding does not rot or warp when exposed to humidity or rain.      

Energy Efficiency Options

Insulated siding is available and adds a thermal layer. This helps with energy efficiency and offers comfort with Calgary’s cold winters.

Drawbacks of Vinyl Siding

Some limitations need to be addressed for vinyl siding  

Vulnerability to Extreme Cold and Heat: 

Very low temperatures will make vinyl brittle and break. In the summer heat, warped vinyl is a sign of improper installation or exposed to reflected sunlight.  

Fading Over Time: 

Prolonged UV exposure will eventually fade the color of the vinyl, especially with darker shades.

Less Impact Resistance:

Vinyl can dent or break when something strikes it, for example, during a hailstorm or when debris flys around.

Not Fire Resistant. 

Vinyl can be damaged by high temperatures, but will self-extinguish if you remove the heat source.

Fiber Cement (Hardie) Siding  

Hardie or fiber cement siding including Hardie Panel Siding Calgary  is made from a combination of cement sand cellulose fibers and water. This combination yields a material that is highly durable and dimensionally stable. It has the bonus of looking like wood but it has a far better resistance over a variety of hazards that other materials simply cannot withstand.

Benefits of Fiber Cement Siding 

Outstanding Fiber Cement Siding Durability  

Fiber cement siding has precisely the reputation it does for it’s endurance. It withstands Calgary’s extreme cold, fierce winds, and summers without warping or cracking. Added to that, it is rot, moisture and pest resistant, which means it is a long term investment.  

Fire Resistance  

No other material can compete in non-combustibility to fiber cement siding. It does not catch fire, which adds a safety layer to homes that are in the vicinity of wildfires or other fire hazards.

Authentic Appearance  

Fiber cement siding can be made to imitate the natural look, feel, and texture of wood, stone, or stucco. The outcome is a sophisticated and timeless look that will improve the value and curb appeal of a home.

Long Lifespan 

With proper maintenance and installation, fiber cement siding can last for a couple of decades. It is especially ideal for the region’s climate, as it is resistant to Calgary’s freeze-thaw cycles.

Paint Retention  

Fiber cement, unlike wood siding, retains paint well. Many pre-finished options come with baked-on finishes that resist fading and require little touch-up painting over the years.

Drawbacks of Fiber Cement Siding  

Not unlike any other product, fiber cement siding also carries some considerations to evaluate:  

Higher Cost

The material is more costly than vinyl, and because of its weight and specialized tool requirements, installation will also be more expensive.  

Maintenance Requirements: 

While it is more maintenance-free than wood, fiber cement siding will still require some touch-up painting and caulking to keep it looking its best.

Weight and Installation Complexity: 

Installation time and labor costs increase due to the weight of the fiber cement. It also must be handled a certain way to avoid pre-installation breakage.

Moisture Sensitivity During Installation: 

Poor installation of fiber cement results in absorption of moisture at cut edges which may cause premature deterioration.

Performance in Calgary’s Climate

The Calgary region is marked by heavy winds, dry air, temperature fluctuations and and dryperiods with snow and ice. These conditions require siding materials that can moisture and UV damage while withstanding expansion and contraction.

Vinyl Siding in Calgary

Calgary’s dry and cold climate is reasonable to vinyl siding, which is then most used in the region, however vinyl siding is prone to extreme cold brittleness. Avoidance of warping or cracking is obtained through proper installation with expansion and contraction space. During windy or dusty periods, regular cleaning is recommended to prevent dirt buildup.

Also, insulated vinyl siding is beneficial in Calgary’s long winter months since it improves the thermal performance of the house by retaining more heat.

Fiber Cement Siding in Calgary

Calgary’s climate fiber cement siding is very appropriate. It is one of the most durable options available. It withstands the moisture, impact, and temperature changes. It stays durable even under extreme conditions of hail, wind, and snow. It is an expensive investment at first, however, because it is durable and rarely needs replacing, it is cost-effective in the long run.

Maintenance Comparison  

• Vinyl requires minimal upkeep with only occasional cleaning and check for any cracks or loose panels. 
• Fiber Cement requires repainting and re-caulking every 10–15 years based on exposure and paint quality.  
• Although vinyl requires nearly no upkeep, fiber-cement still requires significantly less upkeep compared to wooden and stucco materials.  

Cost Considerations  

For most homeowners, budget is certainly one of the most important factors. For those looking to improve curb appeal on a modest budget, vinyl siding makes the most cost-effective option as it is less expensive in both materials and labor.  

Although fiber-cement siding is more expensive, it is more durable and provides a more upscale appearance.  For those interested in long-term value than the initial cost, it makes sense to invest in fiber-cement siding as it has a longer lifespan and is more durable to Calgary’s climate.  

Aesthetic and Design Flexibility  

Both vinyl and fiber-cement siding provide great design flexibility.  

• Vinyl: Is available in numerous colors, textures, and wooden-grain styles.  
• Fiber Cement: Has a more upscale look and can be painted any color for a fully customized appearance.

Many homeowners prefer fiber cement siding because of its more traditional and upscale appeal. However, for modern construction and simple updates, the availability of vinyl siding in a variety of ready-made hues may be more practical.

What is Best for You?  

Your priorities will ultimately dictate your choice of vinyl or fiber cement siding.  

• Choose Vinyl Siding: For a greater variety of styles and colors, and for a more affordable, almost maintenance-free option.  
• Choose Fiber Cement Siding: For more lasting value, a premium appearance, and the construction materials that will endure the worst Calgary weather.  

Conclusion: The Future of Calgary  

You cannot go wrong with any choice in siding as each will provide visually pleasing protection to your Calgary home. For homeowners with tighter budgets, vinyl is the more accessible low-maintenance option. For homeowners looking to make a quality long-term investment, fiber cement provides top-tier sophistication along with lasting resilience. When the weather in town can instantly change from freezing cold to bright and sunny, your choice of siding is about more than looks. It’s about comfort, endurance, and beauty that will last. For it to last and for your home to maintain its style, one maintenance is essential: professional installation.