Vinyl vs. Hardie Board: Which Siding Is Best for Your Calgary Home?
Vinyl siding in Calgary offers a durable, cost-effective solution for protecting homes from harsh weather while enhancing curb appeal. Renowned for its adaptability and minimal upkeep, vinyl siding stands as a perfect match for Calgary’s unpredictable weather, offering protection against moisture, wind, and UV radiation.
At Superior Roofing, we help homeowners find the right siding to fit their style and needs. Read up on why vinyl siding is the way to go!
Calgary’s Climate Challenge
Calgary enjoys a one-of-a-kind climate that’s a challenge to the integrity of any home’s envelope. Blistering winters that can fall through -20°C, coupled with sizzling summers up to 30°C, make for extreme temperature swings. These factors necessitate sidings with the capability to withstand continual expansion, contraction, and other elements.
Between the city’s crazy wind and hail storms, this underscores the value of high-performance siding. This makes weather-resilient options such as vinyl siding an ideal choice for Calgary homeowners.
Hail Impact
As we see in Calgary, hailstorms are common and hailstones can be 2-4 cm. These can dent, crack, or otherwise puncture traditional siding materials, resulting in expensive repairs. More durable choices like Hardie board or metal siding will fare better with hail.
Although vinyl siding is vulnerable to larger hail, premium grades with extra thickness provide enhanced defense. Hail damage repairs average a few thousand dollars, although it varies by the severity of the damage. Install protection where relevant — impact-resistant siding, or invest in storm shutters — to mitigate damage and protect your home.
Chinook Effect
Calgary’s famous Chinook winds can cause temperature fluctuations of up to 20°C in a day. This perpetual expansion and contraction can stress siding materials, causing warping or cracking. Flexible vinyl siding and fiber cement are well prepared to weather these shifts.
Installation is key—when appropriately fastened and spaced, siding won’t buckle under these fluctuations.
UV Exposure
- Recommended UV-resistant materials: premium vinyl or fiber cement
- Factory-applied finishes ensure long-lasting color retention
- Lighter colors minimize heat absorption and UV-related fading
Freeze-Thaw Cycles
The on-again, off-again freeze-thaw cycles cause moisture to penetrate siding cracks, where it expands, cracks, or grows mold. Insulated vinyl siding offers a nice barrier, limiting these vulnerabilities.
Optimal caulking, sealing, and inspections shield against moisture problems, guaranteeing enduring results.
Comparing Exterior Siding Options
If you’re selecting exterior siding for properties in Calgary, durability, maintenance, aesthetics, and insulation are key factors. Each material brings its own set of advantages and disadvantages that need to be considered with the city’s harsh climate in mind.
Durability
Vinyl siding is durable but can become brittle in Calgary’s punishing winters. Fiber cement siding, like Hardie board, is extremely weather-resistant, pest-resistant, and fire-resistant, so it can endure through the seasons.
Aluminum siding does have a good level of durability; however, it’s easily dented and scratched. Wood siding, although charming, demands regular maintenance to keep it rot-resistant. For Calgary’s crazy weather swings, fiber cement is the most durable.
Maintenance
Vinyl siding is a low-maintenance option, as it only needs to be cleaned from time to time of dirt or debris. Wood siding, on the other hand, requires maintenance such as occasional staining or painting to guard against Calgary’s temperature swings.
Fiber cement siding is virtually maintenance-free since it doesn’t chip, peel, or fade. Aluminum siding is another option that only needs minimal maintenance but might need patching of visible dents. For active homeowners, vinyl and fiber cement are smart options for eliminating long-term maintenance.
Aesthetics
Wood siding provides a cozy rustic appeal but can often conflict with a few of Calgary’s more contemporary home structures. Vinyl comes in tons of different colors and textures so it can really be customized for a modern or traditional home.
Fiber cement emulates natural materials such as wood or stone but maintains a clean, contemporary appearance. Matching siding to Calgary’s unique styles boosts curb appeal and resale value.
Vinyl Siding In-Depth
Vinyl siding has become a staple for Calgary homeowners because it is affordable, requires very little maintenance, and can be adapted to fit many different home styles. With a reputation for withstanding Calgary’s climate, vinyl siding strikes an excellent balance between cost-efficiency and durability.
Standard vs. Premium
Basic vinyl siding is cost-efficient and common, delivering good value for the money. Premium vinyl siding is better, with more durability and UV resistance. This means a lot in Calgary, where fierce sun in the summer months will bleach out inferior materials.
Premium options catch the eye as well, with more polished finishes and increased textural diversity. For example, upscale vinyl can emulate wood grain or stone, providing homes with an expensive appearance sans maintenance.
While more expensive initially, quality vinyl siding usually provides superior long-term value and requires less maintenance.
Colour & Style
Vinyl siding has a remarkable array of colors and styles — from contemporary vertical panels to traditional board-and-batten. Earth tones and textured finishes are a favorite of Calgary residents, which go hand-in-hand with the city’s architectural style.
Others select factory-applied finishes to maintain vibrant color, even through Calgary’s brutal winters. Vinyl siding can mimic natural materials such as wood or stone, providing a beautiful look without sacrificing durability.
Selecting hues that accentuate Calgary’s landscape can boost curb appeal and blend with the environment.
Upkeep
Vinyl siding is relatively low-maintenance, especially when compared to wood. A simple rinse from your garden hose or pressure washer is, in most cases, all that is necessary to keep it looking fresh.
Post-severe weather checking for cracks or warping is crucial to avoid long-term damage. As an extra safeguard, UV-resistant coatings take vinyl siding’s durability a step further.
Hardie Board Installation
Hardie board siding is the #1 option for Calgary homes, providing supreme durability and resistance to our region’s tough climate. Constructed from fiber cement, it’s denser than vinyl siding (roughly 0.5” vs. Vinyl’s 0.05”) and performs well in resisting fire, pests, and extreme weather (such as hail or freezing).
Its durability turns it into an investment that guards a home’s curb appeal as well as its framework.
The Process
- Start by inspecting the home’s exterior and measuring accurately. Right measurements make sure that you don’t waste any materials and that your siding meets nicely.
- Cutting and Fitting: Use specialized tools such as carbide-tipped saw blades to cut Hardie board precisely. Protective equipment is a must with fiber cement to minimize dust.
- Installing Backer Boards: Backer boards provide an essential foundation, ensuring the siding sits evenly and resists moisture.
- Caulking and Sealing: Apply high-quality caulk around joints and edges to prevent water intrusion.
- Securing the Boards: Nail or screw the boards to the house frame, maintaining proper spacing to allow for slight material expansion.
Expert installers take care of everything — from prep work to finishing — with a typical install time of 5-6 days for a two-story house.
Required Expertise
Circular saws, nail guns, and protective gear, oh my! If it’s not installed properly, it could cause water damage or void warranties by the manufacturer. Experienced, certified Calgary installers know Hardie Board’s unique properties, steering clear of expensive mistakes.
Finishing Touches
Sealing edges, caulking joints, and painting (if necessary) beautify the course of siding. Pre-painted choices make this step easier.
Trims and site clean-up coordinate for a polished result.
The True Cost of Siding
The true cost of siding depends on a range of variables, from the type of material to labor to the size of your home. It’s important to consider upfront costs vs. Long-term advantages in your decision. Here’s a deeper dive for Calgary homeowners.
Initial Investment
| Siding Material | Cost per Sq. Ft. | Benefits |
| Vinyl | $5–$11 | Affordable, low-maintenance |
| Wood | $4–$15 | The natural look needs frequent upkeep |
| Fiber Cement | $5–$10 | Durable, moisture resistant |
Vinyl siding is a clear winner in terms of affordability. With a starting price of $5 per square foot, it’s the perfect solution for the frugal homeowner. Premium materials such as Hardie board (fiber cement) provide more durability but are more expensive initially.
For example, vinyl can work well with a straightforward design, but high-end materials withstand Calgary’s tough weather much longer. Think long-term, though — like fewer maintenance costs.
Long-Term Value
Fiber cement and vinyl siding are much more durable than wood, which can split or rot. These low-maintenance options are particularly useful in Calgary, where temperatures swing wildly. Durable siding too boosts resale value—buyers love homes with sturdy, weather-resistant exteriors.
Getting good materials and warranties you can trust will guarantee peace of mind and savings in the long run.
Energy Savings
Insulated vinyl and fiber cement siding enhance a home’s energy performance by lowering heating and cooling expenses. Yes–when it’s properly installed, coupled with materials that have high R-values, it reduces the energy that leaves your home, keeping it comfortable inside.
In Calgary’s frigid winters, energy-efficient siding can have a huge impact on your utility bills and is a worthwhile purchase.
Making Your Final Decision
Choosing the perfect siding for your Calgary home is no easy task. Having experienced the city’s extremes – from blizzards to hail to ever-changing temperatures – it is important to select a material that is durable and weather-resistant. Vinyl siding is a great choice for this, being durable against severe weather and easy to maintain.
You have to strike a careful balance between look, durability, and price when considering siding options. Vinyl siding, for instance, looks crisp and new while being much easier on the budget than fiber cement or brick. Insulated vinyl siding, while more expensive upfront, can help make your home more energy efficient during Calgary’s harsh winters and hot summers — reducing your heating and air conditioning bills.
This makes it a long-term investment worth considering for homeowners looking to wrangle energy costs. Check with several professional siding contractors before you make your decision. A contractor experienced with Calgary’s distinct climate can suggest siding options appropriate for your individual needs and budget.
They can offer perspective on overall material lifespan and upkeep needs, and how the quality of installation affects things. For example, certain siding such as natural wood or stucco may not fare as well in Calgary’s freezing temperatures and abundant moisture, so vinyl is a safer bet.
Another key consideration is how the siding performs in shielding your home. Vinyl siding is a guard from moisture and wind, but it gives you a chance to add insulation. This additional insulation protects your home from Calgary’s incidence of bite winters and scorching summers, keeping homes warmer in the winter and cooler in the summer.
Conclusion
Vinyl siding Calgary provides a sturdy, affordable choice for Calgary houses. It withstands severe winters, repels moisture, and maintains your home’s curb appeal throughout the seasons. From home renovations to new construction projects, vinyl siding provides outstanding value at an affordable price. With options like colors and styles, you’ll find a look that suits your style.
Need some advice on whether or not vinyl siding is right for your home? Superior Roofing is Ready to Walk You Through the Process. Our team is happy to answer your questions and offer expert advice tailored to Calgary’s unique conditions. Reach out today to get started or check us out on our About page to find out why so many trust us with their homes.
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