Not all regions of North Carolina and South Carolina experience cold winter weather. Residents of the South Carolina low-country, for example, tend to enjoy temperate weather all year long. There are, however, some parts of these Southeastern states that get extremely cold — mountainous areas of North Carolina, such as Asheville, for example, can get snow and ice for several months of the year.
If you live in a chilly part of the Carolinas and you’ve been thinking about getting new siding on your home, fiber cement is an excellent option for you to consider. If you don’t know much about this material, you’re in the right place. Here, we explain why fiber cement cladding is a great option for homeowners who deal with winter weather every year.
The freeze-thaw cycle won’t matter
If you don’t live in an area where temperatures regularly drop below freezing overnight but rise above freezing — even if it’s just a few degrees above — during the day, you definitely have familiarity with the freeze-thaw cycle. The frustrating thing about this cycle with most siding materials is that they expand and contract as the weather changes.
Both wood siding boards and vinyl cladding, for example, can crack, warp, and sustain other damage when the weather frequently dips below 32 degrees Fahrenheit overnight, then rises above that when the sun comes up. Fiber cement doesn’t have this problem, making it more durable and long-lasting than nearly all other siding options in areas that experience cold winter weather.
You’ll spend less on your bills
Utility bills can be costly, especially during the winter months, if your home isn’t as energy efficient as it could be. The better your home’s cladding is at keeping heat — and cool air during the summer months — inside your house, rather than letting it escape, the less expensive your heating and cooling bills will be.
Fiber cement siding is one of the most energy-efficient options on the market today. Carolina homeowners who choose this material to cover the exteriors of their homes can rest assured that they will be paying the optimal amount for their utilities. Furthermore, over time, your new siding is likely to pay for itself with the money you’ll save on monthly bills!
Fiber cement doesn’t mold or mildew
For Carolina homeowners, in particular, exterior mold and mildew can be an issue. The climate in many areas of both North Carolina and South Carolina tends to be humid, in some cases well into the winter season — combined with snow and slush, this is not a good combination. Mold can quickly develop on both wood and vinyl siding.
Fiber cement, however, is mold-resistant, making it the ideal choice for those who are concerned about mold and mildew infestations making their way into their houses. Black mold, in particular, can lead to a wide variety of health problems for people of all ages.
If you are ready to learn more about having fiber cement siding installed on your house, contact Hatch Homes at your earliest convenience! We are here to help.