Siding options for quad in Pensacola

[Michael Deacon]

I have a quad in Pensacola that needs siding. The current siding is T1-11. About half of the panels need to be replaced. My options are: replace T1-11, use Hardie or Vinyl. It occurs to me that the latter 2 will be less maintenance. Does anyone have any experience/advice they can offer?

[Kristin Kiddy]

Hardie costs more, but it will last longer than vinyl.  Vinyl can crack and split.  It does not take abuse well.  If you go with Hardie, prime it with your own primer (no oil) and then paint.  It will last "forever" if installed and painted correctly.  Depending on the current siding and style of the house, you may be able to get away with siding the lower half in the Hardie.  That is where the majority of rot occurs.  You can run a trim band horizontally around the building to separate the top and bottom siding.