Should I choose vinyl or Hardie board siding for my house in Moncton?

For Moncton's climate, Hardie board (fiber cement) is generally the superior long-term choice, though vinyl offers solid value if budget is your primary concern.

Hardie Board Advantages in New Brunswick's Climate
Fiber cement siding excels in our freeze-thaw cycles and coastal moisture. Unlike vinyl, it won't crack in extreme cold (which Moncton sees regularly at -25°C to -30°C) and handles our spring temperature swings without expanding and contracting dramatically. The material is also fire-resistant and won't melt from BBQ heat or reflected sunlight off snow.

For a typical Moncton home (1,500-2,000 sq ft), expect Hardie board installation costs of $18,000-$28,000, including removal of old siding. The material comes pre-primed and holds paint exceptionally well in our maritime climate. You'll get 15-20 years before needing to repaint, compared to 7-10 years with vinyl replacement due to fading.

Vinyl's Value Proposition
Quality vinyl siding runs $12,000-$18,000 for the same home and requires virtually no maintenance. Modern vinyl has improved significantly - thicker gauges (.044" or higher) resist wind damage from our Atlantic storms, and fade-resistant formulations hold color better. However, cheaper vinyl can become brittle in our winters and may crack if impacted when cold.

Moncton-Specific Considerations
Since you're in Moncton proper, you'll need a building permit from the City of Moncton Planning & Development department (506-856-4375) for full siding replacement. The work must comply with the National Building Code 2020 edition, which became mandatory for new applications as of May 1, 2025. Ensure your contractor pulls proper permits and arranges inspections.

Given Moncton's location near the coast, salt air exposure is moderate but present. Hardie board's cement composition handles this better than vinyl's potential for chalking. If you're planning to stay in the home long-term, Hardie board's durability and superior appearance typically add more to resale value.

Your Next Step
Get quotes from at least three contractors for both materials, ensuring they're licensed and carry WorkSafeNB coverage. Ask to see recent local installations of each product - particularly how they've held up after 3-5 New Brunswick winters.

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