Fiber cement siding is extremely durable, but it comes at a cost
Fiber cement siding can mimic nearly all types of siding.
It was introduced to the market as a replacement for asbestos siding.
The benefits of fiber cement siding include its longevity, durability, and resistance to pests.
Drawbacks of the material include cost, environmental impact, and maintenance.
If your home’s exterior could use a refresh, there are a variety of materials to choose from. Fiber cement siding has a lot to offer, mainly that it’s long-lasting and durable. Before you nail down your final decision, let’s take a look at the pros and cons of fiber cement siding and measure how it stacks up against other alternatives.
If you’ve looked up information about fiber cement siding, you’ve no doubt come across Hardie Board, which is a major manufacturer of this material by James Hardie™. Fiber cement siding was introduced in the mid-1980s as a replacement for siding containing asbestos, which was discontinued in 1989 due to safety concerns. While Hardie Board was the first, it’s certainly not the last. Several other manufacturers now make fiber cement siding from a mixture of cellulose fibers, sand, and cement, but every manufacturer has their own composition.
Fiber cement siding is extremely durable and holds up well against the elements. It can last up to 50 years if you keep up with maintenance, and some manufacturers' warranties can be about that long.
Durability is often the main appeal of this material. Fiber cement siding is so strong that it can withstand hurricane-strength winds and other extreme weather conditions like hail. It will not dent, warp, or rot.
Fiber cement is resistant to fire and heat, making it a smart choice if you live in an area with wildfires. It has a 0 flame spread rating, and because it’s listed as a Class 1 material, it doesn’t actively fuel a fire.
Pests like termites and beetles can’t chew or drill through fiber cement siding. It’s also safe from small animals and birds. Fiber cement siding doesn’t expand and contract either, so it doesn’t invite nesting insects.
One of the benefits of fiber cement siding is that it can mimic the look of nearly all types of siding, and most manufacturers also carry traditionally colored architectural siding to meet historical society specifications. It can be installed vertically, horizontally, or as trim and comes in various shapes, thicknesses, and textures.
Costing between $5 to $14 per square foot, fiber cement siding is more expensive than most other siding types. The price of fiber cement siding will depend on the manufacturer (Hardie Board is more expensive than other manufacturers), and the type—shingles are the cheapest, followed by planks and panels. Its installation may also cost more. You’ll want to reach out to a local fiber cement siding company for a more accurate estimate.
Fiber cement siding is not recyclable, which means it’s not eco-friendly. However, once installed, it’s inert and non-toxic. And because it lasts for decades, it has a low carbon footprint.
Fiber cement siding installation can be difficult. It’s heavy—50 square feet weighs about 150 pounds, and its rigidity makes it easily breakable. Cutting fiber cement releases crystalline silica, which is hazardous when inhaled.
Once fiber cement siding is installed, you’ll need to clean and paint it every decade to keep it looking fresh. While the material itself is moisture resistant, proper installation and regular maintenance are important to keep mold at bay.
If you’ve weighed the pros and cons of fiber cement siding and are still not convinced it’s for you, there are several other siding varieties to choose from. These are some of the most popular options.
Vinyl siding comes in many colors, textures, and style varieties. It’s low cost, at about $3 to $12 per square foot. It lasts up to 40 years and only needs to be cleaned with water from a garden hose.
Wood siding costs about $1 to $15 per square foot, depending on the type, and is also available in many finishes, styles, and textures. It does require paint or a stain, and it’s not impervious to moisture, pests, or weather extremes.
Aluminum siding costs about $3 to $6 per square foot, and steel costs $4 to $16 per square foot. Metal siding is low maintenance but is prone to denting. It’s available in a wide range of styles, including shingles, panels, vertical strips, and shingles.
Fiber cement siding can last up to 50 years or more, as it is durable and made with high-quality materials. Like any part of your home, you’ll want to keep up with maintenance to ensure its longevity.
When it comes to fiber cement siding maintenance, it’s not too much work. However, it needs to be painted about every 15 years and may need to be re-caulked to prevent mold.
At $5 to $14 a square foot, fiber cement siding is slightly more expensive than many other types of siding. However, it’s worth the cost because it lasts for decades with no issues.
