Fiber cement siding costs $20,678 average compared to vinyl’s $17,590 average for full-home projects.
Fiber cement siding costs $20,678 average compared to vinyl’s $17,590 average for full-home projects.
Vinyl siding delivers 97% ROI while fiber cement returns 144% ROI in New England. Installation costs may increase with fiber cement because it requires specialized tools, heavier materials, and longer project timelines.
What Homeowners Need to Know:
- Material Cost Difference: Vinyl siding averages $17,590 for full-home replacement, offering best value for budget-conscious homeowners. Fiber cement costs $20,678, representing premium investment with superior durability and an authentic wood appearance. Both materials provide excellent long-term value with decades of reliable performance!
- Installation Process: Fiber cement requires specialized tools and safety precautions for cutting dense rigid material. Teams need at least two people handling each piece safely due to heavy weight. This increases labor costs and extends project timelines making fiber cement installation pricier than vinyl installation.
- Return on Investment Comparison: Fiber cement delivers 144% ROI in New England markets while vinyl provides 97% ROI. Both exceed initial investment when selling your home ,making either option a fantastic choice.
- Long-Term Maintenance Costs: Vinyl siding requires only annual garden hose rinsing without painting, sealing, or repairs needed. Fiber cement may need occasional caulking or paint touch-ups. Costs are minimal to none for both products.
- Excellent Weather Protection: Both materials withstand New England’s freeze-thaw cycles, coastal moisture, and extreme temperature variations.
James Hardie Fiber Cement vs Vinyl Siding
| Material | Average Cost | ROI | Installation Complexity | Maintenance | Best For |
| Vinyl Siding | $17,590 | 97% | Moderate (lightweight) | Minimal (annual rinse) | Budget-conscious, low maintenance |
| Fiber Cement | $20,678 | 144% | High (heavy, specialized tools) | Low (occasional caulking) | Premium appearance, authenticity |
| Wood Siding | Higher | Lower | Moderate | High (painting, sealing) | Historic homes only |
Our Recommendations
Top Recommendation for Budget: Vinyl siding offering $17,590 average cost with 97% ROI and zero ongoing maintenance.
Best for Premium Appearance: Fiber cement delivering authentic wood look with 144% ROI justifying higher investment.
Best for Installation Flexibility: Fiber cement installing in temperatures down to 20°F versus vinyl’s 35°F minimum.
Ready to choose between vinyl and fiber cement? Coastal Windows & Exteriors completed 7,000+ installations across MA, NH, ME. Get your free estimate with 3D modeling showing both options on your actual home.
Request a free siding estimate from Coastal Windows & Exteriors.
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Last Updated: April 2026
Sources:
- The average cost of vinyl siding replacement in New England is $17,590. JLC Online Cost vs. Value 2025 – New England, JLC Online’s regional breakdown of remodeling costs for New England, including vinyl siding installation pricing. (2026)
- The average cost of fiber cement siding in New England is $20,678. JLC Online Cost vs. Value 2025 – New England, JLC Online’s regional breakdown of remodeling costs for New England, including fiber cement siding installation pricing. (2026)
- Vinyl siding delivers a strong return on investment for homeowners at resale. JLC Online Cost vs. Value 2025, JLC Online’s national data report comparing remodeling project costs to resale value, including vinyl siding ROI. (2026)
- Fiber cement siding delivers a strong return on investment for New England homeowners. JLC Online Cost vs. Value 2025 – New England, JLC Online’s regional breakdown of remodeling costs for New England, including fiber cement siding ROI. (2026)
