Wood Siding is one of the most eco-friendly options in siding and is suitable in all climates. It’s highly customizable and retains its resale value if it is well maintained. And, with proper care, wood siding is considered a durable product.
Unlike fiber cement siding and vinyl siding, wood siding requires continual maintenance. In addition, wood is susceptible to insects, moisture, and fire. Fiber cement and vinyl are often less expensive than custom wood options and generally last longer.
Nothing beats the natural appearance of wood, but James Hardie and other luxury fiber cement siding products provide a close alternative.
Brick homes have a traditional, classic appearance. They are built to last 100+ years. In fact, bricks often outlast the homes they encase. Brick, like properly installed fiber cement siding, is highly energy efficient. Homeowners can expect cool summers and warm winters inside their cozy homes.
Brick has limited designability in comparison to fiber cement siding. Custom ordering brick colors is generally not an available option.
Brick and fiber cement are both low maintenance products. They are insect and rot resistant. Furthermore, they are both made from similar fire retardant materials. In fact, many insurance companies will offer discounts to homeowners using brick or fiber cement siding which aren’t available to those with wood or vinyl siding.
Brick is one of the most expensive options in home siding. It is heavy and difficult to install. While both fiber cement siding and brick require professional installation, brick is far more time-consuming to install. And, unfortunately, many homes cannot have brick added after the structure has been built because of the addition weight it puts on the foundation.