Choosing Between Vinyl and Hardie Siding: What’s Right for Your Home?
Vinyl siding in Calgary is a durable and cost-effective option for enhancing your home’s exterior while withstanding the city’s varying weather conditions.
Famous for its simplicity and conservation, vinyl siding offers a durable defense and street appeal to homeowners. With a variety of colors and styles, it fits well with both contemporary and classic aesthetics.
Trust Angel’s Roofing for expert installation and dependable solutions that meet Calgary’s specific climate requirements.
Calgary’s Climate Challenge
Calgary’s climate is notorious for its dramatic temperature variations and random weather changes. With bone-chilling winters as cold as -30°C and summer highs that frequently surpass 30°C, the city’s climate introduces distinct obstacles for preserving the condition of exterior elements such as siding.
From hailstorms to rapid temperature fluctuations via the Chinook winds to UV rage and freeze/thaw cycles, Calgary can be tough on siding and it must be appropriately selected and maintained.
Hail Impact
Hail is a frequent visitor in Calgary, with stones frequently big enough to dent or crack siding panels. Vinyl siding, though economical, is susceptible to visible hail damage. More rugged choices like Hardie board or metal siding provide more protection from hard hits.
These materials can be more expensive in the front, so it’s an investment. It’s costly to fix hail-damaged siding, from $0.60 to $3.00 a square foot. Homeowners can mitigate this threat by selecting impact-resistant materials and adding defensive layers, like reinforced cladding, to protect their exteriors.
Chinook Effect
Chinook winds create dramatic shifts in temperature, which can raise the temperature by 20°C in a matter of hours. This quick boil and cool down can stress siding, causing it to warp or crack.
Vinyl and fiber cement siding are fantastic options for Calgary’s climate, as they’re designed to withstand these temperature swings without cracking or warping. Installation of course is equally important. Expert installation guarantees seams that are tight, but still able to flex, so siding won’t buckle during sudden expansions or contractions due to temperature fluctuations.
UV Exposure
- Premium vinyl siding with UV stabilizers
- Fiber cement siding with factory-applied finishes
- Lighter color options to reduce heat absorption
- UV-resistant coatings for long-lasting color
Freeze-Thaw Cycles
Calgary’s infamous freeze-thaw cycles can cause siding to crack, permitting moisture infiltration. Insulated siding does wonders when it comes to limiting this problem.
Right caulking and sealing help water damage. Inspections catch early signs of cracking, saving expensive repairs.
Comparing Exterior Siding Options
Choosing the perfect exterior siding is an important decision for Calgary homeowners, with the city’s hot and cold swings, heavy snowfall, and hailstorms. All three have their own advantages and disadvantages, which need to be considered.
| Siding Material | Pros | Cons |
| Vinyl | Affordable, low maintenance, versatile colors & styles | Brittle in extreme cold, lower durability vs. others |
| Wood | Natural, luxurious look, eco-friendly | High maintenance, prone to rot, insect damage, costly |
| Aluminum | Lightweight, rust-resistant, recyclable | Easily dented/scratched, lower insulation properties |
| Fiber Cement | Durable, weather/pest-resistant, realistic wood look | Heavier, higher installation cost, requires repainting |
1. Durability
Vinyl siding holds up well to temperate weather but tends to crack in Calgary’s frigid winters. Fiber cement shines in its resistance to snow, ice, and temperature fluctuations. Aluminum won’t rust or rot, great in damp climates but prone to dents.
Wood siding, while stunning, tends to have issues with water and pests. Calgary’s climate requires something like fiber cement or insulated vinyl – materials that are strong and weather resistant.
2. Maintenance
Vinyl is notable for low maintenance—only periodic cleaning. Wood looks great, but needs staining, painting, and watchfulness for rot.
Aluminum requires periodic cleaning to prevent oxidation but is otherwise low maintenance. Fiber cement is a smart compromise, delivering low maintenance with lasting performance, a practical solution for Calgary’s busy homeowners.
3. Aesthetics
Natural wood and stone veneer add a lot of warmth and charm but are more expensive. Vinyl has limitless customization, fiber cement replicates wood’s texture without the maintenance.
Calgary’s range of architectural styles, from contemporary to traditional, complement these flexible choices, increasing both curb appeal and home value.
4. Installation
Expert installation is critical, particularly for fiber cement – which is weightier and trickier. Vinyl and aluminum are easier to install but need insulation for maximum thermal efficiency.
For Calgary homeowners, we recommend experienced contractors.
5. Insulation
Insulated vinyl and fiber cement fare well in Calgary’s frigid winters, cutting heating expenses. Aluminum, while less insulating, can be combined with external insulation.
Vinyl Siding In-Depth
Encased vinyl siding continues to be a preferred option for Calgary homeowners because it’s versatile, reasonably priced and can easily withstand the city’s extreme weather. It has become the most popular siding choice because of its ease of maintenance and virtually unlimited options for customization.
Standard vs. Premium
Traditional vinyl siding is cost-effective, with prices running about $5 to $10 (CAD) per square foot installed. Premium options offer additional advantages, like increased durability and UV resistance.
Top-of-the-line products are available that acclimate to Calgary’s punishing sun and temperature fluctuations, minimizing the likelihood of warping or fading. Beauty wise, premium siding tends to feature more sophisticated textures and finishes, like wood-like grains.
For homeowners who care about lasting value and minimal repair expense, premium siding is a wise purchase.
Colour & Style
Vinyl siding in thousands of colors and styles allows you to match your home’s look to Calgary’s architectural trends. Choices simulating wood or stone bring personality without the maintenance of authentic substances.
Best of all, you can pick any colour you like — popular choices include neutral beiges or greys that blend with Calgary’s landscape. Factory-applied finishes provide bright, durable colors.
Mixed textures, say smooth and wood-grain panels mixed together, are picking up steam for a contemporary ‘zingy’ look.
Upkeep
Low maintenance is one of vinyl siding’s greatest benefits. Cleaning generally means a garden hose or pressure washer a couple of times annually.
After extreme weather, inspections for cracks or damage are crucial — saving you from expensive fixes. UV-resistant coatings add longevity to vinyl siding, particularly under Calgary’s fierce sun.
Repairs, if necessary, run an average of $500 to $3000 (CAD), depending on severity.
Hardie Board Installation
Hardie board siding is a premium choice for Calgary homeowners who want a durable, resilient exterior siding. Constructed of fiber cement, it provides a durable answer that’s weathered Calgary’s brutal climate — from bitter winters and blazing summer heat to constant hail. At 0.5 inches thick, it’s a lot more stout than typical vinyl siding, which is about 0.05 inches thick.
The Process
- Inspection and Planning: A detailed inspection of the home is conducted to assess structural needs and determine the correct Hardie board size. Options include 48” x 16” panels and narrower widths from 4.2” to 10”.
- Measurements and Cutting: Accurate measurements ensure minimal waste and precise fitting. Boards are cut with special tools to prevent chipping.
- Backer Boards and Caulking: Backer boards provide support, while caulking seals gaps, preventing moisture infiltration.
- Panels are securely attached, ensuring alignment and proper fastening to withstand extreme weather.
- Final Checks: The installation is inspected for stability and adherence to manufacturer guidelines, critical to prevent future issues.
Required Expertise
Hardie board installation takes special skills. Top-of-the-line equipment — fiber cement saws, pneumatic nail guns — are a must. Incorrect installation compromises resistance to moisture damage and voids warranties, so it’s important to use contractors who have experience.
Calgary certified installers know the local climate requirements and ensure Hardie’s technical standards are met.
Finishing Touches
Sealing edges and caulking joints for a polished, weatherproof finish. Hardie board is paintable to match any aesthetic, curb appeal, etc. Coordinated trims and accents with the siding provide a unified aesthetic.
Debris clean up and inspection finishes it off.
The True Cost of Siding
Siding installation cost Calgary depends on the materials, labor and your home’s needs. Although the average cost to side a house is $10,272, prices can vary from $5,343 and $15,560. If you’ve got a larger home, like a 2,500-square-foot house, costs can climb to $14,910 and beyond.
Here’s a breakdown of key factors to consider:
Initial Investment
| Material | Cost per Square Foot (Installed) | Key Features |
| Vinyl Siding | $5 – $11 | Affordable, low maintenance |
| Wood Siding | $4 – $15 | Natural look, higher upkeep |
| Fiber Cement | $5 – $10 | Durable, fire-resistant |
Vinyl siding is still an affordable choice for Calgary homeowners at $5 a foot. For those who want nicer materials such as Hardie board (fiber cement), upfront costs are increased but you get the benefit of increased lifespan.
Wood siding may provide an organic look, but the price of maintenance can’t be ignored. Always consider upfront costs versus long-term returns in your decision.
Long-Term Value
Durability is key in Calgary’s climate. Vinyl and fiber cement siding are both very low maintenance and can withstand some serious weather, so they save you money in the long run.
Top-notch siding further boosts home resale value, with prospective buyers frequently seeking homes boasting tough and energy-saving exteriors. Seek out materials with warranties in order to protect your investment and your peace of mind.
Energy Savings
Energy-saving siding, like insulated vinyl, helps to keep heating and cooling down in Calgary’s crazy weather. Siding with high R-values improves insulation, which means lower energy bills all year long.
It needs to be properly installed as well because gaps or poor workmanship will cancel out these advantages. For Calgary homes, energy efficient siding is a green and affordable investment.
Making Your Final Decision
There are a few things to consider when making this important decision about vinyl siding for your Calgary home. Budget is usually the initial filter—knowing what you can realistically spend goes a long way toward eliminating choices. Vinyl siding is typically more affordable than alternatives like wood or fiber cement, but choosing insulated vinyl siding can really pay off in the long run because it’s more energy efficient.
This is a key advantage in Calgary’s chilly winters. While the initial investment could be more significant, the savings on heating costs and increased comfort end up being a valuable investment for most homeowners.
Durability is important, especially in Calgary’s climate where homes encounter significant snow, rain, hail and freezing/thawing cycles. Vinyl is notable for its longevity, lasting over 50 years when cared for, versus 20-30 years for aluminum. In hail- or wind-prone areas, impact-resistant and sturdy siding can offer extra reassurance, shielding your home and minimizing repair expenses.
Just as important is balancing aesthetics with functionality. Vinyl siding is available in a multitude of colors and textures, so homeowners don’t have to sacrifice performance for curb appeal. Vinyl has evolved to have designs that resemble natural materials like wood, looking trendy without the upkeep.
Unlike wood siding that must be repainted every 12-15 years, vinyl requires virtually no maintenance — which means you’re saving time AND money. You should always consult professional siding contractors before making your final decision. Local pros know Calgary’s environmental quirks and will suggest the optimal choices based on your needs.
They can evaluate if your current siding is deteriorated or obsolete, steering you to the most sensible improvement.
Conclusion
Vinyl siding provides Calgary homeowners with an affordable, dependable method of shielding and beautifying their homes. It holds up to Calgary’s harsh weather, requires minimal maintenance and is available in tons of styles to suit any aesthetic. Whether you need it for strength, energy conservation or simply a facelift, vinyl siding is an economical, smart option.
At Angel’s Roofing, we’re here to help you make the right choice and get it done right. Contact us today to quote or discuss your options with one of our specialists. Read about why Calgary homeowners rely on us for their exterior projects on our About page. Let’s build a home that lasts together.