From time to time, Chicagoland homeowners contact us about replacing cedar siding. Usually, the question at the pricing stage is “Is fiber cement siding better than cedar siding?” or “Is cedar siding still worth it in 2025?”. Given the growing popularity of siding from James Hardie as well as composite cedar shakes from DaVinci Roofscapes, such doubts seem reasonable. So let’s check out which solution pays off more and what factors influence it.
Table of Contents
Longevity
Longevity of Fiber Cement Siding
In the vast majority of cases, fiber cement siding is a lifetime solution that will require virtually no intervention for the next 50 or even 70 years. Maintenance of fiber cement is extremely simple – washing it every few years is sufficient. Any painting, which may also be justified after time, is intended to improve the aesthetics of the house rather than to protect the walls from damage.
Longevity of Cedar Siding
Homeowners very rarely choose to install cedar siding based on its longevity – natural wood is not known for its longevity. In the Chicagoland area, where homes are subject to hailstorms, relatively harsh winters, high summer temperatures and high humidity levels due to the presence of a large lake nearby, the lifespan of cedar siding usually does not exceed 40 years, and is often as short as 30 years.
From a longevity perspective, proper cedar siding maintenance is crucial. Natural, unmaintained cedar wood is highly susceptible to rotting, warping, cracking and fading. Lack of regularity in washing, staining and painting cedar shakes basically always ends the same way, which is the need for siding replacement.
When compared to fiber cement siding, which can usually last 50 to 70 years with minimal maintenance, cedar siding demands a more hands-on approach to ensure its longevity. Homeowners who prioritize a traditional, natural look must also factor in the ongoing costs and efforts required to maintain its appearance and structural integrity.
Result: It will surprise no one that fiber cement siding is usually much more durable and long-lasting than cedar siding. A lifespan of 50-70 years means that hardieboards are likely to last longer than the very house they are installed on. Cedar shake siding can also keep you happy for years to come, but regular and often expensive maintenance is required to get it. If you care about longevity and durability, fiber cement siding will be a better choice for you.
Ease of Maintenance
Maintenance of Fiber Cement Siding
Fiber cement siding is considered one of the most maintenance-free materials used for siding boards. Thanks to the use of inorganic materials, James Hardie and competing brands’ products are essentially completely resistant to water, oxygen and insects. Unlike cedar siding, fiber cement does not require staining, frequent painting or sealing, as these treatments do not extend its life. The material’s structure, much less porous structure is a guarantee of durability and simplicity of maintenance.
In practical terms, maintaining fiber cement siding involves little more than occasional cleaning with a garden hose or pressure washer to remove dirt, dust, and mildew buildup. While repainting may be considered after several decades to refresh its appearance, this is purely cosmetic and not a structural necessity. Additionally, fiber cement is impervious to insects, eliminating concerns about termite infestations or woodpecker damage. As a result, homeowners can enjoy the aesthetic appeal of their siding without the ongoing maintenance demands associated with natural materials like cedar.
Maintenance of Cedar Siding
Cedar siding is undoubtedly extremely aesthetically pleasing, especially when new. However, in order to be able to maintain its deep orange-brown color, even shakes and high degree of airtightness, regular, often difficult maintenance is required.
Conditions typical of Chicagoland are not conducive to the longevity of cedar siding – wet autumn and spring weather, freezing temperatures through much of the winter, and high levels of sunlight in the summer mean that homeowners must pay special attention to ensure that the cedar wood on their homes does not begin to degrade quickly. Avoiding this problem is possible, but it is necessary to regularly use a stain or sealant every 3-5 years on average. Some people also choose to paint the wooden siding, but this is a major interference with the appearance of the house and it is impossible to return to the natural color of the wood afterwards.
Although not as common a problem as you might think, cedar siding is also vulnerable to pests, especially termites and carpenter ants, which are later pecked away by woodpeckers. Mechanical damage to the wood undoubtedly affects the curb appeal of the house, while also increasing the risk of rotting wood, which soaks up water much faster. The use of appropriate chemicals can effectively get rid of pests, but is another activity to keep in mind if you have cedar siding.
You can learn more about wood siding maintenance from our blog post.
Result: Fiber cement siding requires minimal maintenance, needing only occasional cleaning and optional repainting over decades. In contrast, cedar siding demands regular staining, sealing, and protection against moisture and pests, making it a higher-maintenance option despite its natural beauty.
Initial Cost
Price of Fiber Cement Siding Installation
Fiber cement siding is not a cheap material – although its production process is not innovative, customers are able to pay enough more for their product to receive a multi-year or even lifetime warranty. Given the relatively high labor cost in Chicagoland, when planning fiber cement siding replacement in Glenview or surrounding cities, you need to prepare for a price of $7 to $18 per square foot. Typically, costs increase dramatically if you choose a premium brand such as James Hardie or if your home has complex architecture – many small walls are much more challenging for a siding contractor than 4 large ones.
The high cost of installing fiber cement may be discouraging, but it should be treated as an investment in the future. While vinyl or cedar shakes will begin to cause problems, fiber cement will require nothing more than cleaning and possible painting. Compared to the installation of vinyl siding, the cost of labor during fiber cement siding replacement will usually be at least 30% more expensive, due to the greater amount of time it takes to perform the service.
Price of Cedar Siding Installation
The cost of installing cedar siding is usually similar to fiber cement – in Chicagoland, it usually ranges from $7 to $16 per square foot. However, very discerning buyers will pay more. The price is influenced by factors such as the quality of the cedar wood, which can be smooth or knotty, the style of siding installation, and the preservatives used to protect the wood.
Labor cost is also important, and while cedar shakes and cedar shingles are much lighter than fiber cement boards, they are also usually smaller, which lengthens the installation process. Cedar siding is also more complicated when it comes to attaching it to walls – improper nailing can cause damage to the wood structure that will end up cracking the staves. To top it all off, less experienced siding contractors may have trouble properly waterproofing cedar, which of course reflects negatively on longevity.
Result: While cedar siding has a lower upfront cost, fiber cement siding offers better long-term value due to minimal maintenance. Over time, the savings on upkeep make fiber cement the more cost-effective choice.
Fire Safety
Is Fiber Cement Siding Fire Resistant?
Yes, fiber cement siding is highly fire-resistant. Made primarily of cement, sand, and cellulose fibers, it is classified as a non-combustible material, meaning it does not ignite or contribute to fire spread. Many fiber cement siding products, including those from James Hardie, carry a Class A fire rating, the highest possible for building materials. This makes fiber cement an excellent choice for homeowners in areas with fire risk or strict building codes. Unlike wood, it does not require additional treatments to improve fire resistance, further reducing maintenance costs over time.
Is Cedar Siding Safe in Terms of Fire Vulnerability?
Cedar siding, like all wood-based materials, is inherently combustible and poses a higher fire risk than fiber cement. While treatments with fire-retardant chemicals can improve its resistance, cedar will never achieve the same level of fire safety as non-combustible materials. In areas with strict fire codes or elevated wildfire risks, local regulations may limit the use of untreated cedar siding. Homeowners considering cedar should weigh its aesthetic appeal against the potential fire hazards and any additional costs associated with fire-resistant treatments.
What Kind of Siding is More Eco-Friendly?
Cedar siding is often seen as the more natural and eco-friendly choice due to its biodegradability and renewability. Responsibly sourced cedar has a lower carbon footprint in production than fiber cement, which requires energy-intensive processes involving cement, sand, and cellulose fibers. However, fiber cement siding has a much longer lifespan and requires less maintenance, reducing the need for repainting, refinishing, and potential replacement. Additionally, while cedar is biodegradable, fiber cement can be recycled, though recycling programs for it are less common. Ultimately, cedar is the better option for sustainability in the short term, but fiber cement’s longevity and minimal upkeep can make it a more eco-conscious choice over time.
Can Fiber Cement Siding Look Better Than Cedar Siding?
Cedar siding has a timeless, natural beauty that fiber cement aims to replicate but never fully matches. The authentic grain, texture, and color variation of real wood provide warmth and depth that synthetic alternatives struggle to achieve. However, modern fiber cement siding, especially high-end products from manufacturers like James Hardie, offers remarkably realistic wood-like textures with significantly less maintenance. Additionally, fiber cement can be painted in a wide range of colors, allowing for more customization without the frequent refinishing required for cedar. While purists will always prefer the genuine appearance of real wood, fiber cement can deliver a high-end aesthetic that closely mimics cedar while offering superior durability.
Resale Value of Fiber Cement Siding and Cedar Siding
When considering siding options, homeowners should not only evaluate upfront costs and maintenance but also how each material affects the home’s resale value. In the Chicagoland area, where buyers prioritize durability and low maintenance, fiber cement siding often provides a better return on investment. According to national remodeling reports, fiber cement siding replacement consistently ranks among the top home improvement projects, with an ROI of approximately 60-70%. Its longevity, fire resistance, and minimal upkeep make it an attractive feature for potential buyers, especially in urban and suburban markets.
Cedar siding, on the other hand, appeals to a niche group of buyers who value natural aesthetics and traditional craftsmanship. While it can enhance curb appeal, the need for regular maintenance and potential concerns about durability may deter some buyers. Consequently, homes with cedar siding may not see as high of a resale value increase unless they are well-maintained and positioned in areas where historic or rustic architecture is in demand.
Should I Choose Fiber Cement Siding Instead of Cedar Siding?
For most homeowners in Chicagoland, fiber cement siding is the better choice due to its longevity, low maintenance, fire resistance, and cost-effectiveness. While cedar offers a natural aesthetic, it requires frequent upkeep and has a shorter lifespan. If you prioritize durability and minimal maintenance, fiber cement is the superior option. However, if you’re willing to invest in ongoing care for an authentic wood look, cedar remains a viable—but demanding—alternative.
Summary
Fiber cement siding outperforms cedar in longevity, maintenance, fire resistance, and overall cost-effectiveness, making it the better choice for most homeowners in Chicagoland. Cedar provides a natural, classic aesthetic but requires significant upkeep and has a shorter lifespan. While fiber cement offers durability with minimal maintenance, those committed to maintaining cedar can still enjoy its timeless appeal—at a price.
