Siding comparison
Engineered wood vs Fiber cement siding
Engineered wood costs less ($7–$12 per square foot) than fiber cement ($8–$15), but fiber cement lasts 30–50 years versus 20–30 years — so the pricier option can cost less per year.
Side by side
| Engineered wood | Fiber cement | |
|---|---|---|
| Cost (square foot) | $7–$12 | $8–$15 |
| Mid-range | $10 | $12 |
| Lifespan | 20–30 years | 30–50 years |
Engineered wood
A real-wood look that's lighter and cheaper than fiber cement, treated to resist rot and insects.
Fiber cement
Durable, fire-resistant, and attractive (think James Hardie), with the strongest resale return of any siding.
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Frequently asked questions
Is engineered wood or fiber cement siding cheaper?
Engineered wood is cheaper at $7–$12 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, engineered wood or fiber cement?
Engineered wood siding lasts 20–30 years; fiber cement lasts 30–50 years. Longer-lasting materials often cost more upfront but less per year of service.