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Looking for a durable, stylish, and long-lasting option for your home’s exterior? Fiber cement siding could be the perfect solution for your home’s exterior needs. Whether you’re building a new house or replacing old siding, this material has become a go-to choice for homeowners and contractors alike. In this ultimate guide, we’ll break down what fiber cement siding is, its pros and cons, the cost involved, and more.
Let’s dive in.
What Is Fiber Cement Siding?
Fiber cement siding is a tough, engineered material created by blending Portland cement, sand, water, and cellulose fibers into a resilient and long-lasting exterior cladding. This combination creates a siding that is incredibly strong, weather-resistant, and low-maintenance.
It comes in various styles, including lap siding, shingles, vertical panels, and even trim boards, giving homeowners the freedom to achieve different exterior looks. Fiber cement can mimic the appearance of wood, stucco, or stone while offering much better performance in harsh conditions.
Benefits of Fiber Cement Siding
Fiber cement siding has become popular for good reasons. Here are some of its biggest benefits:
1. Long Lifespan
With proper installation and care, fiber cement siding can last 30 to 50 years or more.
2. Weather Resistance
It stands up well to rain, snow, humidity, and extreme temperatures. Unlike many other siding options, it resists rotting, warping, and brittleness over time.
3. Fire Resistant
Unlike wood siding, fiber cement is non-combustible, making it a smart choice for homes in wildfire-prone areas.
4. Pest Protection
It offers strong protection against termites, carpenter ants, and other insects that commonly infest and damage wood siding.
5. Low Maintenance
It holds paint well and requires less repainting compared to wood. Cleaning it once or twice a year is often enough.
6. Aesthetic Flexibility
Fiber cement siding comes in many textures and colors, allowing you to match any architectural style.
Drawbacks of Fiber Cement Siding
Despite its many advantages, this siding does have a few downsides to consider:
1. Heavy Weight
Fiber cement is heavier than vinyl or wood siding. This makes installation more labor-intensive, which can increase the overall cost.
2. Upfront Cost
Compared to vinyl and some wood siding options, fiber cement typically involves a greater initial investment.
3. Skilled Installation Required
Improper installation can lead to moisture problems down the line. Hiring experienced professionals is a must.
4. Paint Will Fade
While fiber cement holds paint well, it will eventually need repainting every 10 to 15 years, depending on exposure and climate.
Cost Analysis
Cost is a major factor when choosing any home improvement product. Here’s a breakdown of what to expect with fiber cement siding:
- Material cost: $2 to $5 per square foot
- Installation cost: $5 to $12 per square foot
- When accounting for both materials and labor, you’ll generally pay between $7 and $17 for each square foot.
For a 2,000-square-foot home exterior, this can range from $14,000 to $34,000, depending on labor rates and the complexity of the project.
Keep in mind, while it may cost more upfront, the low maintenance and long lifespan can make it more cost-effective over time.
Installation Process and Considerations
Fiber cement siding installation is generally not recommended as a DIY project. Due to its weight and need for precise handling, professional installation is highly recommended.
Here’s what the process looks like:
- Removal of old siding (if applicable)
- Wall preparation, including moisture barriers and flashing
- Cutting and fitting of fiber cement panels
- Sealing joints and painting (if not pre-finished)
- Final inspection and cleanup
Be sure to work with a siding contractor who has experience specifically with fiber cement to ensure a quality outcome.
Comparing Fiber Cement to Other Siding Materials
When choosing siding for your home, it’s important to weigh all your options. Here’s how fiber cement siding compares to vinyl, wood, and stucco across key features:
Durability
- Fiber Cement: Highly durable and resistant to weather, pests, and impact.
- Vinyl Siding: Moderately durable but can crack in extreme cold or warp in heat.
- Wood siding: It is the most vulnerable option, often affected by moisture, insect infestations, and weather-related wear and tear.
- Stucco: Moderately durable but can crack over time, especially in seismic areas.
Fire Resistance
- Fiber Cement: Excellent fire resistance; non-combustible material.
- Vinyl Siding: Poor fire resistance; melts or burns easily.
- Wood Siding: Poor; naturally flammable unless specially treated.
- Stucco: Good fire resistance due to its cement-based composition.
Maintenance
- Fiber Cement: Low maintenance; occasional cleaning and repainting every 10–15 years.
- Vinyl Siding: Very low maintenance; doesn’t require painting but may need occasional washing.
- Wood Siding: High maintenance; needs frequent painting or staining, sealing, and repair.
- Stucco: Moderate; may need occasional repairs and repainting to keep its visual appeal intact.
Aesthetic Options
- Fiber Cement: Many design and texture options, mimics wood or stone.
- Vinyl Siding: Moderate options in colors and textures but less authentic-looking.
- Wood Siding: Many styles and a classic look; easy to paint or stain.
- Stucco: Fewer aesthetic choices, typically limited to smooth or textured finishes.
Lifespan
- Fiber Cement: Long-lasting, often providing reliable performance for 30 to 50 years or more.
- Vinyl Siding: Typically lasts 20–30 years.
- Wood Siding: Varies widely (10–30 years), largely influenced by how well it’s maintained.
- Stucco: Can last 25–50 years with proper care.
Cost
- Fiber Cement: Medium to high cost due to material and labor.
- Vinyl Siding: Most affordable option, especially for large areas.
- Wood Siding: Mid-range, but higher over time due to maintenance.
- Stucco: High initial cost, especially if applied traditionally.
Maintenance and Care
Fiber cement siding is known for being low maintenance, but here’s how to keep it in top shape:
- Clean annually with a garden hose and soft brush to remove dirt and mold
- Every few years, take time to examine the caulking and joints to ensure they’re sealed properly and to avoid potential water infiltration.
- Repaint every 10 to 15 years if using paintable siding (some come pre-finished with 15-year warranties)
- Check for cracks or chips and make timely repairs
With these simple steps, your siding can look great and perform well for decades.
FAQs
What is the biggest issue homeowners face with fiber cement board siding?
The main problem with fiber cement board siding is that it can absorb moisture if not properly installed or maintained. Over time, this may cause the siding to bend, split, or develop mold.
Is fiber cement a good siding?
Yes, fiber cement is a good siding. It’s durable, fire-resistant, low-maintenance, and can handle harsh weather. It also looks like wood but lasts much longer.
How much does it cost to put fiber cement siding on a 1500 sq ft house?
The cost to install fiber cement siding on a 1,500 sq ft house typically ranges from $9,000 to $22,000. This includes materials and labor, depending on the style and local rates.
What is the lifespan of fiber cement siding?
Fiber cement siding lasts around 50 to 60 years with proper care. It’s built to resist rot, pests, and harsh weather, making it a long-lasting option for homes.
Final Thoughts
Fiber cement siding is a smart, long-lasting, and stylish choice for homeowners who want to protect their home and boost its appearance. While it may require a bit more investment upfront, the benefits pay off in durability, safety, and long-term value.
If you’re ready to upgrade your home’s exterior, Home Makeover is a great choice for quality fiber cement siding replacement done right.
About the Author: Jeffrey W. Nero
Jeffrey W. Nero is a home improvement expert with over 20 years of experience serving homeowners in New Jersey. As the owner of Home Makeover™, Jeff combines quality craftsmanship with a deep understanding of local needs. From roofing and siding to deck remodels, Jeff has helped thousands of homeowners bring their visions to life. His commitment to excellence and customer satisfaction makes him a trusted partner in transforming homes across Central NJ.