Interested in fiber cement siding? This siding material does offer a number of attractive benefits, but it’s not for everyone. I’ve created a list containing a few key factors you need to consider to help you decide.
Cost
Installing siding essentially means wrapping material around your home – a lot of it. Cost will always be a concern with a home improvement project of this magnitude. Fiber cement is not the cheapest siding material out there but it is one of the most cost-effective ones you’ll find on the market because it lasts for a long time and looks great throughout its lifespan. This means you’ll be striking a balance between cost and benefits, making the siding worth every dollar you’re going to spend on it.
Durability
One of the best benefits of fiber cement siding is its durability. Aside from topping what aluminum or vinyl siding can offer in terms of physical strength, it is also fire-resistant, immune to moisture-related damage like rot and rust, and not susceptible to termite damage like wood siding. This allows fiber cement to withstand a wide range of threats from the elements, making it ideal for use in a wide variety of climates.
Maintenance
Due to fiber cement siding’s outstanding durability, it requires little maintenance. However, keep in mind that low maintenance does not mean zero maintenance. Fiber cement will need to be painted at regular intervals, though it holds paint better than wood and therefore will have to be painted less often. Keep dirt and grime from building up and you’ll be able to maintain its appearance. Fiber cement siding is very durable but do give it a check when bad weather hits. This will let you spot problems while they are small, preventing them from worsening.
Appearance
Fiber cement siding boasts an incredible ability to mimic other siding materials, allowing it to imitate their beauty without the material weaknesses. Take wood siding, for instance. Wood is a beautiful material but it is defenseless against fire, insects and rot. Opting for fiber cement siding that looks like wood panels will let you enjoy the charm that wood siding can bring without the problems inherent in the material. You can also order fiber cement siding in a wide range of colors, allowing you to pick out one that will best complement your home. Factory-applied colors can last as long as 15 years without repainting.
Lifespan
With a lifespan of up to 50 years, fiber cement siding makes a strong case for itself. A bit of a downside is that it you might tire of it before it’s time for a replacement! If you’re looking to place your property on the market though, fiber cement siding is often a great selling point.
Author Bio:
Bill Krech is an expert in the home improvement industry, specializing mostly in exterior components including roofing and siding. He loves sharing tips with homeowners on his blog, Twitter and Facebook. Follow him for updates!
