Modern commercial and residential builds are going up everywhere in BC and it’s not likely to slow down any time soon. Selecting the correct siding can be challenging with so many options available, along with the goal of keeping costs down.

Cedar and Hardie-Plank Siding are two popular choices for any modern structure. They both look beautiful and are readily available—how do you choose one over the other?

Read on to compare the two types of siding and their features.

HARDIE PLANK SIDING

  1. A man-made product comprised of a sand, cement, and cellulose fiber composite pressed together, Hardie-Plank siding comes available primed and painted or can be painted after installation.
  2. A popular and trusted material for modern siding projects with a traditional look that architects and builders prefer.
  3. Closely resembles authentic wood.
  4. May protect the structure from pests like carpenter ants.
  5. Can be painted any colour desired to uphold an authentic craftsman look.
  6. Fire-resistant for safety and manufactured free of toxic materials.
  7. Proven to withstand harsh weather conditions.
  8. Not sourced from endangered wood species.
  9. Some types of Hardie-Plank come with a long warranty.
  10. Can be used to achieve lap or clapboard, shingle, and board and batten styles for versatility.

Cedar siding also offers versatile siding profiles: Bevel, Channel, Custom Tongue & Groove, and Board & Batten. These deliver a variety of textures, design elements, and widths, with horizontal, vertical, and even diagonal installation choices.

CEDAR SIDING

  1. Yellow Cedar and Red Cedar wood species have naturally pleasing aromas and long-term value.
  2. Possesses natural preservatives, also known as tannins, which provide outstanding durability. The inherent properties of cedar also result in less rot and mildew, prone to other types of wood.
  3. Cedar siding is naturally beautiful and a popular choice for modern coastal builds.
  4. Yellow Cedar is not as readily available as Red Cedar and does not absorb stain as easily. Cedar siding is also available in high-grade clear stains and colours.
  5. Purchasing pre-stained cedar siding not only preserves the grain, but also offers further design versatility.
  6. Although more expensive, when properly maintained, cedar can last nearly a lifetime. 
  7. Biodegradable and reclaimable.
  8. Offers excellent insulating capabilities due to its open cell structure. 
  9. Cedar remains durable, resisting warping, splitting, and shrinking. 
  10. Western Red Cedar siding is naturally beautiful and a popular choice for modern coastal builds, while being sustainably sourced from coastal rainforests.

Cedar is the more expensive option and does require extra maintenance. Fiber cement is definitely more low maintenance, requiring only periodic washing with a hose. Contact us anytime for more information on either type of siding.