Fiber cement siding is often called “hardiplank” or even “hardie board” named from the most popular brand of fiber cement siding which is manufactured by James Hardie. Fiber cement planks are formed by combining wood pulp with Portland cement.

Stucco is a cement-type mixture made of Portland cement, lime, sand and water. It is a thin finish coat that goes on the outermost layer of residential and commercial constructions. Modern stucco has polymers and other agents for increased flexibility that improves its resilience.

Stucco can well last over 50 years with proper maintenance. It can expand and contract with the weather to sustain critical damage, unlike other siding options. It’s also resistant to mold, rot and mildew.

The maintenance is very minimal though, providing that you have sound stucco walls that were applied correctly.