An Introduction To Fiber-Cement Siding

Today, many homeowners are finding that exterior siding can be a viable method to enhance both the appearance and the value of their home. Exterior siding, sometimes called cladding or clapboard is the outermost layer of material on a home. There are a variety of types of siding ranging from popular vinyl sidings, to aluminum, wood, and natural or cultured stone.However, the newest and currently best-received exterior siding alternative is fiber cement siding. Fiber cement siding, such as James Hardie siding, is the most popular brand of siding in North America. In fact, a recent study has shown that, of homeowners who have recently purchased vinyl siding for their homes, about 50% of them say they would have chosen fiber cement siding over vinyl, had they been better informed.What is Fiber Cement Siding?Fiber cement siding is made from a composite of sand, cement, and cellulose fibers, which is then blended with water, waxes, and resins. The material is then autoclaved, a process in which the mixture is subjected to highly pressurized steam that presses the material into its final form. This autoclave procedure provides increased strength and durability to the final product.Fiber cement siding is normally manufactured into a much thicker and more durable product than its vinyl counterparts. While this increased thickness will add more weight to your home, it will also provide more protection.Problems with Vinyl SidingWhile vinyl siding is the most commonly known and most inexpensive siding alternative, it presents a host of problems and tribulations to the homeowner. For instance, since vinyl siding is not tightly secured to the walls of the building, gaps are left in which insects and moisture may accumulate and create problems down the line.Also, vinyl siding is extremely flammable and can catch on fire or melt if to close to a flame or other heat source, such as a barbeque grill or even a reflective light source. In addition, vinyl siding will fade over time from exposure to the sun. When faded, it is often difficult to find replacement panels that will match your existing vinyl siding shade and color. Vinyl siding is also infamous for not being able to be painted with quality results. While paint may be applied to the vinyl, the paint very rarely holds on the plastic and will most likely peel and crack.Vinyl siding is extremely thin, sometimes only 5/100" thick. This leads to structural inadequacies, so the siding is more prone to damage from being struck by objects, weather, and temperature changes. The vinyl siding may crack, split, or become misshapen.