What is Fiber Cement Siding?

Fiber cement house siding is just one of the many options available when it comes to outer coverings for the home. In Australasia and the U.K., it is more widely recognized as "fibre cement cladding." This is a composite type of siding. Other options include wood, plastic, metal, insulated, and masonry.

Compared to these other material choices, fiber cement has its own advantages and disadvantages. For many homes with a wooden exterior, many people prefer the idea of refurbishing the original wood. Unfortunately, this is a very expensive choice. This is particularly true if the original material has sustained any damage. Termites, weather, and other miscellaneous accidents and circumstances can drive the already significant price up considerably.

A more appealing alternative in terms of cost is to utilize vinyl on the home exterior. However, while this has a lot to offer when it comes to saving money, some people dislike its appearance. This is particularly true of a home which originally had a traditional look to it.

As a house siding, fiber cement can be a much more reasonable middle ground approach. Just what is this material exactly? As stated previously, it is a composite material. It is comprised of sand, cement, and cellulose fibers. The cellulose fibers are included to prevent it from cracking.

The different ingredients of fiber cement are autoclaved and imprinted with desired designs. After all this, they are baked. The end result is a thin, hardened material. It may be applied as shingles or in larger sheet sizes.

These imprinted designs can imitate a variety of other materials. They can even hold a wood-grain pattern. Such a wood imitation doesn't only look real from afar, either. Many people find the close up appearance to be remarkably accurate. Additional aesthetic choices are possible because this type of cladding can be painted.

Compared to both vinyl and wood, fiber cement is far more fire resistant. It is also simply tougher and stronger than vinyl. Of course, this house siding is significantly more expensive than vinyl. It is also slower to install, albeit faster than wood refurbishing. A disadvantage which it shares with most types of siding is that it is not a do-it-yourself job. Professional help will be required.

Finally, while its ability to be painted can be an advantage, this is not an easy task to perform. In addition to the difficulty involved in painting fiber cement, it also adds to the costs. These factors of price, durability, versatility, and aesthetics should all be taken into consideration when choosing the most appropriate siding for a home.

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