Should I choose vinyl or fiber cement siding in the Lower Mainland?

For the Lower Mainland's wet climate, fiber cement siding is generally the superior long-term choice over vinyl, offering better durability against moisture, wind, and temperature fluctuations that are common in Metro Vancouver.

Fiber Cement Advantages in Vancouver's Climate

Fiber cement siding excels in the Lower Mainland's challenging conditions. With over 1,200mm of annual rainfall and frequent temperature swings between freezing and mild, fiber cement's dimensional stability prevents the expansion and contraction issues that plague vinyl in our climate. It won't warp, crack, or fade like vinyl can after years of exposure to Vancouver's UV rays during summer months and constant moisture during our long rainy season from October through March.

The material also performs exceptionally well in our seismic zone. Unlike vinyl, fiber cement maintains structural integrity during ground movement and won't crack at connection points. This is particularly important given the updated seismic requirements in BCBC 2024 that took effect March 10, 2025.

Cost Considerations for Metro Vancouver

Expect to pay $8-12 per square foot installed for quality vinyl siding versus $12-18 per square foot for fiber cement in the Vancouver market. While fiber cement costs 30-50% more upfront, it typically lasts 30-50 years compared to vinyl's 15-25 year lifespan in our climate. Factor in Vancouver's high labor costs (among Canada's highest) and the long-term value becomes clear.

Vinyl's Limited Advantages

Vinyl does offer lower initial costs and easier installation, which can matter for budget-conscious renovations. It's also available in more color options, though these tend to fade over time in our climate. For investment properties or short-term ownership, vinyl might make financial sense.

Professional Installation Requirements

Both materials require proper installation with rain screen assemblies - non-negotiable in Vancouver's wet climate. Your contractor must understand moisture management, proper flashing details, and ventilation requirements. Most municipalities in Metro Vancouver require building permits for full siding replacement, with inspections to ensure compliance with BCBC 2024 requirements.

Get quotes from multiple siding contractors who specialize in fiber cement installation and understand Vancouver's climate challenges.