"Paul Rouse" wrote in message
om...
I am building a new house (Mid-West - Near Chicago) and I am trying to
decide between natural cedar clapboard (primed and painted) or a
synthetic such as primed and painted cement fiber board (i.e., Hardi
Board). My builder is strongly discouraging me from deciding on
natural cedar. I have also asked all of the building suppliers in the
area about natural cedar - they all look at me like i am crazy to want
to use natural cedar. The collective opinion is that natural cedar
will only look good for 5 to 10 years (regardless of paint job).
After 5 to 10 years, they claim that the cedar will show serious signs
of decay.

Is this an accurate description considering the cold winter climate?
I am concerned that they are pushing me towards a solution that may
have a higher profit margin (or some other motive).

What kind of life expectancy should one expect from natural cedar?

Thanks in advance for your input.

Remembering that there are different grades of Cedar, and that you would be
happier (although poorer) with Red Cedar as opposed to White.
I live with direct ocean exposure (salt spray, nasty storms, etc.) south of
Boston. The house is Cedar sided, but painted, many times before I got here.
If I were to side the house now I would look into the new Vinyl Siding. I
comes in many styles and appearances, more than what you're probably aware
of. Other than washing the house every year there is little maintenance. And
if you like to change the appearance you can always paint the trim a
different color.
Check out these links:
http://www.gp.com/siding/pdf/154202.pdf
http://www.owenscorning.com/around/e...changelook.asp

Dave