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.