When it comes to replacing your home’s siding, you’re not just picking a material — you’re investing in long-term protection, curb appeal, and value. Two of the most common siding choices today are James Hardie® fiber cement siding and vinyl siding. While both options have their place, they offer very different advantages.
As Minnesota’s award-winning siding replacement specialists, we at Custom One Exteriors want to help you make the best decision for your home. We’re proud to be a certified James Hardie installer, which gives us deep insight into how this premium siding stacks up against vinyl.
Let’s dive into the key categories where these two materials go head-to-head.
Durability
James Hardie® Siding:
Minnesota homes — especially those near lakes or wooded areas — deserve siding that looks great and lasts through all four seasons. James Hardie siding offers a deep wood-grain texture and rich color that enhances curb appeal, whether you’re in the city or at the cabin.
Thanks to its baked-on ColorPlus® finish, it resists fading from sunlight reflecting off the water and holds up against seasonal wear. It’s a great fit for lake homes, vacation properties, or year-round residences that need lasting beauty with minimal maintenance.
Vinyl Siding:
Vinyl siding is lightweight and affordable, but its performance in Minnesota’s climate is limited. It can crack during freezing temperatures and warp during summer heatwaves. Over time, exposure to hail, wind, and impact can cause panels to break or buckle. While some vinyl options are more durable than others, it generally doesn’t offer the same level of long-term strength as fiber cement.
Fire Resistance
James Hardie® Siding:
Fire safety is an often-overlooked benefit of siding, but it’s especially important for Minnesota homes with fire pits, grills, wooded lots, or close neighbors. James Hardie siding is non-combustible and Class A fire rated (ASTM E84), meaning it won’t ignite when exposed to direct flame or high heat.
It’s also been tested in 1-hour and 2-hour fire-rated wall assemblies, offering an added layer of protection in high-risk situations. Whether you’re living lakeside, in a wooded setting, or in a suburban neighborhood, Hardie siding brings peace of mind that vinyl simply can’t match.
Vinyl Siding:
Vinyl siding is made from PVC, which begins to melt at relatively low temperatures and can ignite under direct flame. In the event of a fire, it may contribute to flame spread and release toxic fumes. Even indirect heat from a grill, outdoor fire pit, or nearby structure can cause vinyl to warp or deform — making it a less fire-safe option for many Minnesota homes.
Weather Resistance
James Hardie® Siding:
Minnesota homes face everything from subzero winters and heavy snow to spring rains and summer heatwaves. James Hardie siding is engineered for this kind of climate. It performs exceptionally well in freeze-thaw cycles, resists moisture absorption, and won’t warp, swell, or crack when temperatures swing dramatically.
It’s also tested and proven to handle high winds, hail, and storm impacts, making it an ideal choice for homes in the Midwest — where unpredictable weather is the norm, not the exception.
Vinyl Siding:
Vinyl is water-resistant, but it’s more vulnerable to extreme weather than other materials. In cold weather, panels can become brittle and crack. In the summer, expansion can lead to warping or waving along the walls. Strong winds can loosen panels or tear them away entirely. For homeowners dealing with frequent storms, vinyl may require ongoing maintenance or repairs.
Pest Resistance
James Hardie® Siding:
Minnesota’s wooded lots, lake areas, and rural settings are no strangers to pests — from woodpeckers to squirrels to insects. James Hardie siding is made from fiber cement, which pests can’t chew through or burrow into. Unlike wood or improperly installed vinyl, it doesn’t leave gaps or soft spots that invite infestations. It’s an excellent choice for homeowners who want durable siding that keeps pests — and problems — outside where they belong.
Vinyl Siding:
Vinyl siding doesn’t attract termites, but if not sealed properly, it can leave gaps where insects, birds, or rodents can nest. This is especially common around trim, soffits, or behind loose panels. Over time, even small entry points can lead to pest-related issues that damage insulation or allow moisture into the walls.
Warranty & Longevity
James Hardie® Siding:
James Hardie offers one of the strongest warranties in the industry — a 30-year, non-prorated warranty on siding and 15 years on the ColorPlus® finish. That’s full coverage you can rely on, especially in Minnesota’s tough climate. Because the siding is designed to resist moisture, UV exposure, and physical damage, homeowners typically enjoy decades of protection without frequent repairs or replacements. It’s a smart, long-term solution for protecting your biggest investment: your home.
Vinyl Siding:
Vinyl siding typically comes with a manufacturer’s warranty, but many are prorated and offer limited protection over time — especially for color fading or labor. While vinyl may last 20 to 30 years in ideal conditions, Minnesota’s climate often shortens its lifespan due to repeated freeze-thaw cycles, storms, and UV exposure.
Why Choose Custom One Exteriors?
At Custom One Exteriors, we don’t just install siding — we transform homes. We are a certified James Hardie Elite Preferred Contractor, which means we’re held to the highest installation and customer service standards. Whether you’re dealing with storm damage, looking to boost your curb appeal, or ready for a complete siding replacement, our expert team is here to guide you every step of the way.
2025 Summer Promotion
As part of our commitment to helping homeowners invest in lasting improvements, we’re excited to offer our 2025 Summer Promotion:
Get a $2,500 credit toward Southern Lights outdoor lighting when you choose a full siding replacement with James Hardie siding.
There’s never been a better time to upgrade your home’s exterior — with superior siding and elegant new lighting.
READY TO UPGRADE YOUR SIDING?
Contact Custom One Exteriors today to schedule your consultation and learn how James Hardie siding can add beauty, performance, and peace of mind to your home.
Your home deserves the best — and we’re here to deliver it.