When you need to replace the siding of your home you will be faced with a few options. You can choose wood siding, plastic, vinyl or fiber cement siding. When it comes to choosing siding, many will suggest fiber cement siding which comes in many different types of patterns, and textures. However, there are a number of myths or misconceptions about fiber cement siding that need to set straight so you know if fiber cement is right for you. Stucco Siding Inspection Solutions would like to cover some of these myths and see if fiber cement is right for you.
What is Fiber Cement Siding AKA Hardiplank or Hardie Board?
For those who may not know too much about fiber cement siding, know that it is modeled out of a fiber glass cement mix. The cement is molded into various textures such as wood, tile, or even smooth looking panels. The cement can be painted any color providing a strong exterior. Fiber cement is durable and lasts longer than natural wood and other types of sidings.
Is Cement Fiber Made of Asbestos?
Many people have heard that fiber cement siding is made with asbestos and should be avoided. While earlier cement siding was indeed made with asbestos, modern fiber cement siding is not. When fiber cement siding was first manufactured, asbestos was a useful material. However, due to the health hazard of asbestos, manufacturers discontinued the use of asbestos in 1987. Rest assured, the asbestos is no longer used in the manufacturing of fiber cement siding and is now an environmentally friendly material.
Is Hardie Board Siding Expensive?
Comparing vinyl to cement siding, vinyl is cheaper. The same can be said about wood. However, fiber cement siding is far more durable than both vinyl and wood siding. They require less maintenance and last much longer. Since fiber cement siding is more durable and can withstand the elements and requires less maintenance than other siding material, it can also increase the value of your home. Essentially, yes they are more expensive to install. However, they last longer and cost less in maintenance, so in the long run, it makes the investment well worth the price.
How Do You Maintain Fiber Cement Siding?
As stated before, fiber cement siding doesn’t require a lot of maintenance and so this a common misconception. In short the only maintenance that fiber cement needs is occasional repainting. The exterior of every house will eventually require a need to be repainted. Since the siding is cement it doesn’t get damaged by the sun or by pests like wood or vinyl does. However, massive impacts may damage the siding where the entire piece may need to be replaced.
How Long Does Fiber Cement Last?
Fiber cement siding is very durable and strong. However nothing lasts forever. However, fiber cement siding on average will last for 50 years. Rain, wind and pests such as termites do not affect cement. General wear and tear due to time does have its affects and eventually, the fiber cement siding will need to be replaced. However, most will easily last 50 years, making it seem as if they will never need to be replaced.
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These are some of the common misconceptions and myths about fiber cement siding. If you’re looking to replace your home siding, fiber cement siding is a great option. If you need help repairing or installing fiber cement siding on your home, contact Stucco Siding Inspection Solutions today.
