Fiber Cement Siding Solutions for Your Home

Fiber cement siding has been around since the 1980s, when it was developed as a replacement for asbestos cement siding products. Fiber cement siding offers the same durability and affordability as the asbestos variety but without the health risk to homeowners. It is no wonder fiber cement siding graces about 15% of new homes being built today. It is an excellent choice given its versatility, reliability and variety.

Fiber cement is also easier on the budget than wood, stone or brick. You will find some systems even offer clip-on installation, making it simple and fast for professionals to complete a job. The choice is yours as to whether you prefer the look of individual shingles or panels.

Durable. Painted fiber cement siding holds up better than wood, which makes it a low-maintenance product. It is resistant to warping, fading, shrinking and wood-boring insect damage. Some products claim to have a service life of 50 to 100 years. That certainly makes the initial investment worthwhile in the long term.

Low maintenance. Fiber cement siding is considered a low-maintenance option. It does require occasionally taking a hose to wash off any dirt and debris that build up over time.

Climate flexible. Another reason to consider fiber cement is that it does well in most climates. It is not subject to cracking during freeze/thaw conditions, nor is it prone to rot or fungus in humid regions. Additionally, it is recommended for use in areas where wildfires commonly occur because of its noncombustible qualities.

Eco-friendly. Several manufacturers of today’s fiber cement siding are using more than 50% recycled materials in their products. If you are considering going green, then this siding is for you. It diverts materials from landfills and into long-lasting products to beautify your home and improve its curb appeal.

A final thought on fiber cement

Fiber cement is not just for the outside of your home. Some homeowners have found creative ways to design the interior of their homes with fiber cement. For this purpose, fiber cement is available in sheets and panels, offering versatility similar to siding in terms of its chameleonlike qualities. Designers have applied stone, stucco, brick or plain gray fiber cement sheets to walls to add personality and pizazz to any room.

Ready to invest in fiber cement siding to enhance the beauty of your home? Work with a qualified contractor or supplier to make sure you're getting the right materials for your home improvement project and applying them properly.