Siding comparison
Fiber cement vs Natural wood siding
Natural wood costs less ($7–$14 per square foot) than fiber cement ($8–$15), but fiber cement lasts 30–50 years versus 20–40 years — so the pricier option can cost less per year.
Side by side
| Fiber cement | Natural wood | |
|---|---|---|
| Cost (square foot) | $8–$15 | $7–$14 |
| Mid-range | $12 | $11 |
| Lifespan | 30–50 years | 20–40 years |
Fiber cement
Durable, fire-resistant, and attractive (think James Hardie), with the strongest resale return of any siding.
Natural wood
Classic cedar or pine clapboard with timeless appeal, but it needs regular painting or staining to last.
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Frequently asked questions
Is fiber cement or natural wood siding cheaper?
Natural wood is cheaper at $7–$14 per square foot, versus $8–$15 for fiber cement. But fiber cement lasts 30–50 years, so weigh upfront cost against lifespan.
Which lasts longer, fiber cement or natural wood?
Fiber cement siding lasts 30–50 years; natural wood lasts 20–40 years. Longer-lasting materials often cost more upfront but less per year of service.