So, what to get? The cement fiber board looks great but so does the James Hardie Backerboard material. I'd like to stay away from vinyl and can't afford cedar.

We'll be in the home another 20 years and want something maintenance free. Good insulation properties are also a benefit. It's a two story 4 bedroom colonial about 2,700 sq. ft.

FWIW, the guy who put on a new roof 3 years ago did a great job at a very fair price, but it took about 6 calls to get a call back. Once he responded he was on top of everything. I called him twice for the siding job but no response and I'm less willing to chase him down again.

I'm in Bucks County PA.

Any advise would be appreciated

Composite concrete products(including Hardie products) that are designed for siding are good long term solutions. But, none of them are completely maintenance free.

The house I just bought has steel and hard plastic (molded to look like cedar shake shingles) insulated siding. The siding has been installed for over 15 years and just needs an occasional washing. Long term, those two would be the best.