Austin Company Siding: What to Know Before You Buy

Austin Company makes vinyl and fiber cement siding products sold through distributors and contractors across South Carolina

Austin Company is a siding manufacturer based in the Midwest that produces vinyl and fiber cement products. You will not order directly from them—instead, you work with a local contractor or building supplier who stocks or orders their materials. The company has been in business since the 1980s and supplies products to residential and commercial projects throughout the region.

If a contractor has quoted Austin Company siding for your home, this guide explains what the product line includes, how it compares to other brands, and what questions to ask before signing a contract.

Key Takeaways

• Austin Company makes both vinyl and fiber cement siding, so confirm which product your contractor is proposing before comparing prices.
• You purchase through a contractor or supplier, not directly from the manufacturer, so the final cost depends on who installs it and your local market.
• Fiber cement siding lasts longer than vinyl but costs more upfront and requires professional installation and periodic maintenance.
• Ask your contractor for references from past Austin Company installations and confirm the warranty covers both materials and labor.
• South Carolina's humidity and salt air (especially near the coast) affect how any siding performs, so discuss climate durability with your contractor.

Austin Company's Vinyl Siding Products

Austin Company's vinyl line includes standard lap siding, vertical siding, and soffit and fascia components. Vinyl siding is lightweight, does not require painting, and costs less than fiber cement. It comes in a range of colors, though the selection varies by distributor and may require special order for less common shades.

Vinyl siding is vulnerable to impact damage and can become brittle in extreme cold, though South Carolina's climate is generally favorable for vinyl. The material can fade over time, especially on south-facing walls, and will need occasional cleaning. Most vinyl products carry a 20- to 30-year warranty, but check the specific terms your contractor offers—some warranties are transferable to a new owner, and some are not.

Austin Company's Fiber Cement Siding

Fiber cement combines wood fibers, cement, and sand into a durable product that mimics the appearance of wood lap siding. It resists rot, insects, and fire better than vinyl and typically lasts 25 to 40 years. Fiber cement is heavier and requires skilled installation, which adds to labor costs. It also must be painted or stained and will need repainting every 7 to 10 years depending on exposure and climate.

In South Carolina's humid environment, fiber cement performs well because it does not absorb moisture the way wood does. However, the material is brittle and can crack if not handled or installed correctly. Confirm that your contractor has experience installing fiber cement specifically—improper fastening or cutting can lead to premature failure. Ask whether they use a caulk designed for fiber cement, as standard caulks may not adhere properly.

Comparing Austin Company to Other Brands

Austin Company competes with national brands like Certainteed, Mastic, LP SmartSide, and James Hardie. James Hardie is the market leader in fiber cement and typically costs more but has a strong reputation for durability. Certainteed and Mastic are larger vinyl manufacturers with wider color selections and more established dealer networks. LP SmartSide is engineered wood siding, a middle ground between vinyl and fiber cement in price and performance.

Austin Company products are generally competitively priced and widely available through South Carolina contractors. The real difference in performance comes down to installation quality and maintenance, not brand alone. Ask your contractor why they recommend Austin Company over alternatives—a good answer will reference specific product features or their experience with the brand, not just price.

What to Ask Your Contractor

Before committing to Austin Company siding, ask your contractor these questions: How many Austin Company installations have they completed in the past three years? Can they provide references from homeowners in your area? What is included in the warranty, and does it cover labor or only materials? Will they handle all prep work, including removal of old siding and repair of any damaged sheathing? What is the timeline from contract to completion?

Also ask about climate-specific concerns: How will they handle the humidity and moisture exposure common in South Carolina? If you are near the coast, ask whether they recommend any additional protection or maintenance for salt air. Request a detailed written estimate that breaks down materials, labor, and any additional costs like permits or disposal. Do not accept a verbal quote or a contract that leaves these details vague.

Installation and Warranty Considerations

Siding installation quality matters as much as the product itself. Poor installation can void the warranty and lead to water damage, rot, and mold behind the new siding. Your contractor should remove old siding, inspect and repair the sheathing and house wrap, and install new siding with proper spacing and fastening. They should also install flashing around windows and doors and caulk seams according to Austin Company specifications.

Read the warranty document before signing the contract. Most warranties cover manufacturing defects but exclude damage from improper installation, lack of maintenance, or extreme weather. Some warranties are prorated after a certain number of years, meaning the manufacturer pays less of the replacement cost as time passes. Confirm whether the warranty transfers if you sell your home, and whether the contractor's labor is may provide for a set period after installation.

Maintenance and Long-Term Care

Vinyl siding requires minimal maintenance—occasional cleaning with a soft brush and mild soap will keep it looking new. Avoid pressure washers, which can force water behind the siding. Inspect seams and caulk annually, especially after severe weather, and recaulk if gaps appear.

Fiber cement siding needs more attention. Paint or stain should be inspected every few years and refreshed every 7 to 10 years to protect against moisture penetration. After heavy rain or coastal storms, check for cracks or damage. Both vinyl and fiber cement can accumulate mold or mildew in South Carolina's humid climate—clean affected areas promptly with a mildew-safe cleaner. Keep gutters and downspouts clear so water drains away from the foundation and does not pool against the siding.

Frequently Asked Questions

How much does Austin Company siding cost?

Vinyl siding typically ranges from $6 to $12 per square foot installed, while fiber cement runs $8 to $15 per square foot. Total project cost depends on your home's size, the complexity of the installation, and local labor rates. Get written quotes from at least two contractors before deciding.

Does Austin Company siding work well in coastal South Carolina?

Both vinyl and fiber cement perform adequately near the coast, but salt air can accelerate fading and corrosion of fasteners. Ask your contractor whether they recommend stainless steel fasteners or additional protective measures. Fiber cement is slightly more resistant to salt damage than vinyl because it does not absorb moisture.

Can I install Austin Company siding myself?

Vinyl siding is easier for a homeowner to install than fiber cement, but most manufacturers and contractors recommend professional installation to preserve the warranty. Improper installation can void coverage and lead to water damage. If you have experience with siding, confirm the warranty terms before proceeding.

What is the difference between Austin Company and James Hardie?

James Hardie is the largest fiber cement manufacturer and typically costs more, but both brands offer similar durability and appearance. Austin Company is often more affordable and equally reliable if installed correctly. The choice often comes down to availability through your contractor and personal preference.

How long does Austin Company siding last?

Vinyl siding typically lasts 20 to 30 years, while fiber cement lasts 25 to 40 years. Actual lifespan depends on climate, maintenance, and installation quality. South Carolina's humidity may shorten vinyl lifespan slightly compared to drier regions, but proper maintenance extends it.