Fiber cement board siding has been in use for more than a hundred years. More and more homeowners have now started installing it due to its better features. It is fire-resistant, looks good on homes, and helps command high resale value of the property. It proves the perfect choice for many types of homes. Consult a siding contractor before buying any siding product. You will receive expert opinion if the cement siding will be the right choice for covering your home exterior.
Advantages of Fiber Cement Siding
It is an excellent building material for residential buildings. Some commercial building owners also use this option. It is a hardy material so it lasts longer and requires very low maintenance. Due to the types of materials used to make it and the way it is made, it is resistant to fire. It is made of cement, flies ash or silica sand, and cellulose fibers. Each material adds its own properties and gives the siding some excellent properties that make it a good choice for covering residential houses. Asbestos is not used in this type of siding now. The fiber cement siding adds some insulation effect thereby improving the energy efficiency of the house. Some manufacturers now offer warranties up to 50 years for these products, which shows the longevity and durability of this material.
Available in Different Sizes
This siding is available in various standard sizes ranging from 4 inches to 11 inches. It is finished in a variety of textures and patterns. You can use the siding with wood grain pattern, or go for the stucco texture or smooth surface to give your home a modern and clean look. These boards are also available in the forms of sheets which can be installed as tile underlayment insulation.
Proper Installation Is Necessary
Fiber cement board siding must be installed only by the skilled siding technicians. It is not a DIY material. Professional siding installers know how to install it properly. They do not leave any gap and make sure these panels are joined strongly to the base structure and to each other. They use proper equipment, safety gear, and tools during the installation process. It helps complete the work quickly, properly, and safely.
The cement boards can be found in two versions — primed and pre-painted. The prime version can be painted in any color after its installation. In the pre-painted panels, the paint is already applied during the manufacturing process. It comes pre-painted and does not require any further painting or finishing. Depending on the type and quality of the paint used, and the type of fiber cement siding, a repainting job may be needed in 10-15 years.
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