If you are thinking about renovating the outside of your house, one of the first things you are likely to consider is new cladding. In the home renovation industry, the term “cladding” refers to the exterior covering of a structure. In the case of residential buildings, vinyl siding, brick, stucco, and, nowadays, fiber cement, are all common types of cladding.
Unless your home was built within the last few years, it’s unlikely that it has fiber cement siding now. This means you may not know much about this relatively new material that is taking the remodeling world by storm. Fiber cement is quickly growing in popularity among homeowners all over America, including in North Carolina and South Carolina.
This guide answers some common questions homeowners tend to have regarding fiber cement siding. Hopefully by the time you reach the final paragraph, you will have a better idea of whether or not fiber cement is the right material for your upcoming remodeling job.
What goes into fiber cement siding?
Fiber cement siding is made from a mixture of several common materials. Portland cement, wood fiber (commonly known as cellulose), sand, and water are combined to create this strong and durable product. James Hardie brand fiber cement is the gold standard in the industry, offering superior performance thanks to patented additives.
What is the price of fiber cement siding?
Fiber cement siding is priced lower than many homeowners expect it to be. In fact, it typically costs less than synthetic stucco, brick, and certain wood siding options, including redwood. It is, however, generally priced slightly higher than conventional vinyl siding, which is the most common sort of cladding in the United States.
Despite the slightly higher price tag of fiber cement, though, many homeowners find that its numerous benefits, including its durability – it is often rated to last for at least 50 years – and its aesthetic appeal – it doesn’t fade, crack, or peel like other materials are prone to – make it worth the added expense.
What are the key selling points of fiber cement siding?
Fiber cement siding, as noted above, has a host of benefits. Some of the most notable are:
- Fire resistant
- Rot resistant
- Hurricane-force wind resistant
- Moisture resistant
- Resistant to pests and vermin like termites, mice, and woodpeckers, which can be problematic in Southeastern states like North Carolina and South Carolina
Is it difficult to maintain fiber cement siding?
Fiber cement siding requires very little upkeep after it is installed. Many experts recommend power washing it once per year, but beyond that you don’t have to do any regular maintenance. It is also worth noting that the James Hardie Company’s ColorPlus Technology means your siding will last for years with steadfast color that looks as vibrant as the day you purchased it.
If you have any additional questions about fiber cement siding or regarding the cost of installation, don’t hesitate to call the Hatch Homes crew at any time. We are here to make sure your upcoming remodeling project goes as smoothly as possible.