How To Install And Maintain Fiber Cement Siding

In this post, we are discussing the importance of Fiber Cement siding along with its installation and maintenance procedure. Advantages and disadvantages are also discussed.

Introduction to Fiber Cement Siding

Fiber Cement Siding also known as Fibre Cement Cladding in the United Kingdom is a semi-rigid material that provides substantial protection while maintaining flexibility. It is long-lasting, durable, resistant to termites, doesn’t rot, is fireproof, and requires low maintenance. It is used to wrap or cover the exterior of the residential building or any commercial building. It is generally made up by mixing Portland cement, water, sand, and cellulose fibers in the appropriate proportion which makes it cost less than some wood siding options, synthetic stucco, and brick also. Talking about the history of fiber cement siding, Asbestos reinforced fiber cement was first used by Ludwig Hatschek in Austria in 1901. It was named “Eternit”  a Latin term meaning everlasting. Later in 1980, the use of asbestos was replaced by cellulose fibers due to safety concerns.

 

How to Install & Maintain Fiber Cement Siding

How to Install Fiber Cement Siding?

The tools required for installing are Air Hose, Sawhorse, Jigsaw, Circular saw, Siding Gauge, Safety Glasses, Hammer, Air Compressor, Caulk Gun, Caulk line, Cordless Drill, Drill bit set, Dust Mask, Level, Speed Square, Stapler, Tape Measure, Fiber Cement Circular Sawblade, Siding Nailer, 15 Gauge Trim Nailer. And the materials needed to install are Acrylic Caulk, Kick out Flashing, 30lb Felt, Vinyl Mounting Blocks, 15 Gauge stainless steel or galvanized finish nails, 6d galvanized nails, Drip cap, Fiber Cement Siding, Paint. The handling of thin fiber siding must be done carefully before and while installing because of its fragile nature. Two people are required to install the siding, one to hold the sheet while another nail it. Fiber cement can be installed using the below techniques:

1. Staple building paper to the sheathing.
2. Nail furring strips can be used at the top of the wall.
3. A circular saw can be used to cut the frieze board.
4. Predrill holes for easy installation.
5. Lap inside corner the same way as an outside corner.

How to Maintain Fiber Cement Siding?

Although the nature of maintenance required depends on the geographic location and exposure of the building, this also depends on whether we have prefinished siding or if it is painted on-site but overall Fiber Cement Siding is a low-maintenance exterior option. We need to take care of a few things for the good maintenance of FCS:

1. Inspect the Caulking regularly to keep high moisture protection.
2. Maintain downspouts and gutters.
3. Keep siding clean to prevent problems
4. It should be repainted.
5. It can be washed with a hose pipe using a soft brush every 6-12 months to remove dirt or debris.

Advantages & Disadvantages of Fiber Cement Siding

Advantages

1. FCS can be painted on-site or in a factory.
2. FCS is fire and heat-resistant.
3. FCS has a long life span.
4. It is the best way to emulate wood.
5. It is non-combustible.
6. It is made from sustainable materials.
7. Its installation is not difficult.
8. It has high resistance to warping and rotting.
9. FCS requires minimal maintenance.
10. The contraction and expansion are less compared to wood.
11. FCS is weather resistant.

Disadvantages

1. The labor cost is high.
2. Repainting the siding is required after some time of use.
3. It is not a recyclable material.
4. It may have limited availability.
5. Insulation protection is not offered once installed.
6. It is costlier than Vinyl Siding.

Conclusion

When deciding to Install this siding to your house it’d be a good decision to contact the local contractor that can tell you of its availability, suitability, cost estimation, and other details regarding the options available and the installation process to make it smoother. FCS is highly desirable from the aesthetic point of view and is also affordable. The installation costs a little higher but in the long term it is seen as an investment and turns out to be cheaper.