Fiber Cement Siding Benefits

1. Long Life Span

All of the benefits of fiber cement combine to give it one of the best benefits in the siding industry-longevity. Fiber cement is a composite of cement, wood fiber and other additives which are not only sustainable materials, but ones that withstand the weather, wear, and insects compared to other siding materials. While the upfront costs of fiber cement may be higher compared to vinyl or aluminum, pro-rating those on an annual basis over 50+ years actually makes for a more affordable deal. In fact, a?University of Minnesota study?recommended fiber cement as the best blend of cost, durability, and environmental impact.

2. Versatility in Style

Fiber cement offers a striking beauty just in the material makeup alone. Compound the natural looks with advanced manufacturing methods and the options for curb appeal aesthetics are bountiful.?

3. The Best Way to Emulate Wood

Try as they might materials like aluminum or vinyl simply cannot emulate the look of wood. Whether it be from their natural gloss or the inability to print realistic grains on their surface faux wood vinyl siding is rarely believable far away, let alone up close. Fiber cement, on the other hand, is perhaps the most realistic option for a wood look without wood staining, repainting, and sealing

4. Installation Options for Aesthetics

In addition to the various colors and textures of the material itself, there are plenty of options in the actual shape and installation types for fiber cement board.?

5. Material is Fire (and Heat) Resistant

Vinyl siding can easily become melted when operating a barbecue grill. Likewise in the unfortunate event of a house fire all (untreated) cedar siding does is become fuel. Fiber cement components, on the other hand, are?1-hour, fire resistance rated?and will not ignite under direct flame or heat. Fiber cement has a?flame spread rating of 0 and is a Class I material, which for comparison so is brick.

6. Largely Weather Resistant

The fire resistance of fiber cement is great for the safety of your home and family but to get the most out of the investment the product has to last awhile. Because of how it is made, the fiber cement is impact resistant to damage by hail. Extreme heat and humidity can also wreak havoc on some siding types but the makeup of fiber cement makes it dimensionally stable and protected from being damaged in these conditions.

7-Can Be Painted On-Site (Or in the Factory)

The main theme of fiber cement is options. From the various styles and colors available to widths and more. Another great option is having the fiber cement siding come primed only (paint on site) or in the finished colors. Painting the siding can be a great way for homeowners to save on some material costs. Contracts can also touch up any blemishes that may result in the handling of the materials.

8-Expands and Contracts Less than Wood

Although there will need to be expansion gaps left to account for expansion and contraction in the changing climate, the amount is much less than wood. This helps the contractor who can get away with less than an 1/8” gap instead of recutting the plank. Less expansion and contraction also means that the seam joints will spread apart less, which lessens the possibility of water damage. Since the boards will shrink and expand less, they should be installed closer together at butt seams to avoid gaps.