Fiber Cement Exterior Siding

Less expensive with reasonable maintenance:

Fiber cement siding has increased in popularity in recent years but it was originally introduced in france 100 years ago. Made from cement mixed with ground sand, cellulose fiber, and other additives fiber cement siding is a very versatile and long lasting material. Because of it's makeup fiber cement is extremely immune to many of the common siding problems. Termites, fungus and water are all repelled it and it is also very fire- resistant. With 100 years worth of siding styles to choose from combined with the ability to choose any paint color desired fiber cement can adapt to the look of any home. Fiber cement is offered in styles that resemble stucco, wood clapboards or cedar shingles. The material is not “maintenance free” as it does require painting. However, because fiber cement does not expand and contract with the weather paint adheres to it very well lasting longer than it would on wood siding. In fact, you can order fiber cement siding pre-painted from the factory which will often warranty the paint for between 15-25 years! Combine that fact with typical warranties of up to 50 years and the fact that is is on the lower end of the siding cost scale it's easy to see why the material has gained in popularity.

Fiber-cement siding has the look of wood siding but has a lower cost and lower maintenance. Market share is approaching ten percent, according to manufacturers. Additional benefits include resistance to termites and fire. Fiber-cement siding will not rot, buckle or warp and holds paint for several years longer than conventional wood siding. Moisture resistance is a concern, but problems can be avoided if the siding is installed correctly and properly treated. Labor is a bit more intensive, and proper precautions should be taken when cutting fiber-cement siding.

Fastening:

Either by hand or by coil nailer, the one thing to avoid when nailing is overdriving the fasteners. While coil mailers are faster, the drivers in the guns can be worn out faster, depending on usage. Setting the nail head below the surface decreases holding power. Also, take notice of the nails you use. Make sure you use corrosion-resistant roundhead nails. Fasteners should be driven into framing members. Most kinds of lap siding are bound at the top and bottom. A note of caution: Blind-nailing is not recommended in high wind areas. If you are going to blind-nail, use large nail heads and place them just above the lap line.

Detailing:

Typically, wooden vertical trim pieces were used when using bevel siding. This gave the siding something to run into. But using wood is not practical when you're using a material that is going to last as long as fiber-cement siding. Fiber cement trim board is available in varying sizes, from 7/16" to 3/4" to 1". Vinyl corner trims are another way to get around using wood. Manufacturers recommend joining fiber-cement lap siding over a stud. Make sure to leave a 1/8" gap between the siding and the edge of the wood casings and corner boards. (That's so the wood can move.) There is no need to paint or seal end cuts.

Fiber-cement siding can be installed over foam insulation board, as on an ICF house, but problems can occur during installation. Extreme caution must be taken to ensure proper installation.

Shingles

Smooth Beaded

Textured Beaded

Smooth

Textured Beaded

Painting:

Fiber-cement siding holds paint exceptionally well, usually 7-15 years. Some manufacturers make their siding available pre-primed, but still offer raw siding. This allows you to put your own primer and topcoat on. Before painting, make sure you thoroughly wash your siding. Also, allow it adequate time to dry. Dirt and mildew are liable to stick to flat paint. Satin topcoats have a higher chance of looking blotchy than flat ones, so make sure to do a good job on your priming. Oil-based primers are not recommended, but oil-based topcoats are acceptable over latex primers. Prolonged surface exposure to water causes degradation, so it is important to paint your siding within 90 days of installation.

E-mail: info@fontier-construction.com