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18 Pros and Cons of Fiber Cement Siding

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Summary

This article discusses the pros and cons of fiber cement siding. It is a product made by mixing Portland cement with wood pulp, and is becoming increasingly popular because its price point is impressive and it offers aesthetic appeal. It is also very durable, not flammable, and can withstand harsh environmental conditions. It is not available for direct order from the manufacturer, is not recyclable, and requires repainting every 15 years. It also has a higher labor cost than other materials and does not provide much insulation. Despite these cons, fiber cement siding is still an attractive option for many homeowners.

Q&As

What are the pros and cons of fiber cement siding?
The pros of fiber cement siding include that it withstands numerous environmental conditions, is not flammable, offers a realistic appearance, has a good cost profile, can be painted, provides protection against rot, insects, and vermin, offers industrial-strength durability, is environmentally neutral, and offers a superior level of longevity. The cons of fiber cement siding include that it is not available for direct order from the manufacturer, has a higher labor cost than other materials, requires repainting at some point, is not recyclable, does not offer much insulation protection, is a heavy product that some home structures might not accept, does not offer independent testing or quality controls, and may have limited availability in some areas.

What environmental conditions can fiber cement siding withstand?
Fiber cement siding can withstand salty air, rain and wind damage, hurricane-force winds, extreme heat, and UVA/UVB rays from the sun.

How long does fiber cement siding typically last?
The estimated maximum service life for a non-backcoated product from today’s manufacturers is typically 50 years. If you choose a backcoated version, then the maximum lifespan can reach 70 years. Even the warranty coverage for this exterior solution starts at 30 years for many producers, with some brands offering up to 50 years with your investment.

What maintenance is required for fiber cement siding?
The maintenance requirements for fiber cement siding are straightforward. You can spray down the structure with a low-pressure water source, such as a garden hose, once or twice per year. If there are stubborn stains, debris, or grime on the surface, then a non-scratch sponge and some soapy water will help you to clean things up. Avoid using the high-pressure setting on your washer to avoid having the integrity of the paint compromised by your efforts.

What is the estimated cost of fiber cement siding?
The average range for a home in the United States is between $5,500 to $18,000. The median cost of installation is just under $12,000. You can purchase planks of this material from your local home improvement store for as little as $0.70 per square foot in some locations. Even if you buy at the high end of the pricing scale, the cost is about $5 per square foot. If you opt for shingles, then they can cost anywhere between $2 to $8 each. Your final costs will depend on the color and style that you choose for your home.

AI Comments

👍 Fiber cement siding is an excellent option for those looking for an aesthetically pleasing and durable exterior for their homes. The product is also incredibly cost-effective, making it a great choice for those looking to save money.

👎 Installation of fiber cement siding is more expensive than other siding options and the product is not recyclable. Additionally, the product does not offer much insulation protection once installed.

AI Discussion

Me: It's about the pros and cons of fiber cement siding. It looks at the cost, durability, and aesthetic features of this product.

Friend: That's interesting. What are the pros and cons of fiber cement siding?

Me: Well, some of the pros are that it is not flammable, it is easy to maintain, and it offers a superior level of longevity for most homeowners. The cons are that it is not available for direct order from the manufacturer, it has a higher labor cost than other materials, and it does not offer much insulation protection once installed.

Action items

Research local contractors to find the best option for installing fiber cement siding.
Research the local building codes to ensure that fiber cement siding is an approved option.
Research the different colors and styles of fiber cement siding to find the best option for your home.

Technical terms

Portland cement: A type of cement made by heating limestone and clay together and then grinding them into a powder.
Wood pulp: A material made from wood fibers that is used to make paper and other products.
Masonry: A type of construction that uses brick, stone, or concrete blocks.
Clapboard: A type of siding made of overlapping wooden boards.
UVA/UVB rays: Ultraviolet rays from the sun that can cause damage to skin and other materials.
R-value: A measure of a material's ability to resist heat flow.