Choosing Between Fiber Cement and Engineered Wood: The Ultimate Siding Decision for Delaware’s Coastal Homeowners in 2025

Delaware’s coastal communities face unique challenges when it comes to protecting their homes from the elements. From the salt spray of Rehoboth Beach to the humid conditions of Bethany Beach, homeowners need siding that can withstand harsh coastal conditions while maintaining curb appeal. As we enter 2025, two premium siding materials have emerged as the top contenders for coastal properties: fiber cement and engineered wood.

Understanding Delaware’s Coastal Challenges

Living along Delaware’s coast brings stunning ocean views and a relaxed lifestyle, but it also presents significant challenges for home exteriors. Coastal homes are regularly exposed to high humidity, salt air, strong winds, and storms that are common across towns like Selbyville, DE, and Ocean City, MD. The salt in the air and water can lead to corrosion and degradation of siding materials over time, significantly diminishing their lifespan.

These environmental factors make material selection critical for coastal homeowners. You need something tough, low-maintenance, and built to last in harsh coastal weather.

Fiber Cement: The Durability Champion

Fiber cement siding has established itself as a premium choice for coastal applications. Fiber cement is often made with Portland cement, wood pulp or sand, fly ash, and water, creating a composite material that excels in harsh environments.

Key Advantages of Fiber Cement:

Superior Weather Resistance: Fiber cement siding is moisture-resistant and can be used in wet, coastal environments without being susceptible to moisture build-up
Fire Safety: Fiber cement siding is non-combustible and fire-resistant, making it a much smarter choice than engineered wood
Longevity: CertainTeed’s WeatherBoards offers a 50-year transferable warranty
Pest Resistance: The siding is resistant to rot and insects

Considerations for Fiber Cement:

Higher Initial Cost: Fiber cement siding costs roughly $10 to $12 per sq. ft
Installation Complexity: Fiber cement requires special tools for installation and installers need to wear protection while cutting fiber cement siding due to harmful dust
Weight: It weighs about 1.5 more than wood siding

Engineered Wood: The Versatile Alternative

Engineered wood siding has gained popularity as a more affordable alternative that still offers significant advantages over traditional wood. Engineer wood siding boards are made to look like real wood, but they are way more durable than their older ancestors. You won’t have to deal with wood rot or termites with engineered wood.

Key Advantages of Engineered Wood:

Cost-Effective: Engineered wood siding costs about $6 to $10 per sq. ft
Easier Installation: Engineered wood is easier to install than fiber cement and cuts like real wood, accepts nails and screws, and only requires ordinary woodworking tools
Longer Panels: Engineered wood can be manufactured in 16-foot lengths, making it faster to install and resulting in fewer seams
Solid Warranty: LP’s SmartSide and TruWood siding brands offer 30-year transferrable warranties, with LP also offering a 7-year replacement warranty

Considerations for Engineered Wood:

Moisture Sensitivity: Engineered wood is susceptible to moisture damage and can begin to delaminate and rot over time, and when it freezes, expands and cracks the boards
Fire Concerns: Fire resistance is not its strongest suit, as wood-based materials can ignite and contribute fuel to a fire
Shorter Lifespan: Although engineered wood siding offers decent durability, it may not last as long as fiber cement

The Verdict for Delaware Coastal Homes

For Delaware’s coastal environment, the choice between these materials depends on your priorities and budget. When comparing engineered wood and fiber cement, there’s no question that fiber cement siding is the more durable, longer-lasting product. However, engineered wood offers excellent value for homeowners seeking a balance between performance and affordability.

If you’re building or renovating in areas like Lewes, Bethany Beach, or Ocean View, where salt exposure and extreme weather are constant concerns, fiber cement’s superior moisture resistance and fire safety make it the premium choice. For inland coastal areas with less direct salt exposure, engineered wood can provide excellent performance at a lower cost.

Professional Installation Matters

Regardless of which material you choose, proper installation is crucial for coastal applications. Both fiber cement and engineered wood can have moisture issues if the product is not installed properly, but if you choose a certified installer, you won’t have to worry about this.

For homeowners in New Castle County seeking expert installation, working with an experienced siding contractor in New Castle County ensures your investment is protected. Companies like Ceccola Exteriors provide exceptional craftsmanship and outstanding customer service, understanding that your home is one of your biggest investments and dedicating themselves to making sure it’s protected and beautiful for years to come, with over 27 years of experience.

Making Your Decision

Both are fantastic options. It all depends on the style of your exterior, your budget, and what you value most when it comes to investing in siding. Consider these factors when making your decision:

Budget: Engineered wood offers lower upfront costs, while fiber cement provides better long-term value
Location: Direct coastal exposure favors fiber cement’s superior weather resistance
Maintenance Preferences: Both require minimal maintenance, but fiber cement edges ahead in durability
Installation Timeline: Engineered wood installs faster and easier

As Delaware’s coastal communities continue to grow and evolve in 2025, choosing the right siding material is more important than ever. Whether you opt for the premium durability of fiber cement or the balanced performance of engineered wood, both materials represent significant upgrades over traditional options and will serve your coastal home well when properly installed and maintained.