Many homeowners love the look of cedar shake siding but are not fond of the upkeep it requires. This sort of wood siding has rustic appeal that is especially enticing to those who live in mountainous regions, like Asheville, North Carolina.
Traditional cedar shakes, though, need to be treated on a regular basis to prevent woodpeckers, termites, and other pests from wreaking havoc. Furthermore, they are, like all wood finishes, more susceptible to water damage than other materials.
This is where fiber cement siding comes into play. This material, made by the James Hardie Company, is an excellent choice for homeowners in the Carolinas and throughout the United States. There are many perks that come with choosing fiber cement shakes that resemble cedar. Here, you’ll learn more about this residential cladding option and why it might be right for you.
What kinds of homes typically have cedar shakes?
Cedar shakes can be found on homes throughout the USA, but really got their start in the Northeast, specifically on “Cape Cod” style houses. Due to their coastal origins, they are quite popular among homeowners who reside on the Carolina coast, such as in North Carolina’s Outer Banks.
As mentioned earlier, however, cedar shakes can also look great on rustic residences in mountain regions. No matter style your house is, though, you can make cedar shakes work if you like their aesthetic! From traditional to modern design, shakes are a gorgeous cladding option.
What is fiber cement made from?
Fiber cement siding is made from Portland cement, sand, water, and cellulose. It is an extremely strong and durable material. The cement itself is incredibly strong, while the cellulose promotes pliability, ensuring that fiber cement siding can withstand just about anything that is thrown at it.
What are the benefits of fiber cement?
As noted earlier in this guide, there are a number of benefits that come with fiber cement shakes. One major selling point for coastal homeowners is that they can withstand hurricane-force winds. Very few materials boast this feature, so it is certainly something to keep in mind if you live in an area that is prone to storms.
Another major benefit of fiber cement is its resistance to almost all pests. The Southeast is filled with a variety of vermin and insects, none of which homeowners want infesting or damaging their houses. If you are concerned about mice, woodpeckers, termites, or any other pests, fiber cement shakes just might be the right choice for you.
How expensive is fiber cement?
Fiber cement siding products typically cost more than their vinyl and aluminum counterparts. However, James Hardie brand shakes are often approximately the same price as real cedar, but it is important to get quotes from reputable local contractors prior to to making a final decision about the purchase of any home renovation material.
If you think fiber cement shakes molded to look like cedar could be a good option for your upcoming remodeling project, contact the team at Hatch Homes today. We are here to make sure your project goes smoothly from start to finish.