If you’re looking for a type of siding that can hold up to windstorms, resist fire, and keep its color for years, you should definitely consider fiber cement siding. Also known as James Hardie siding after one of its prominent manufacturers, this material is a favorite for those who need their homes and building exteriors to stand up to harsh conditions. It is also high on the list of possibilities for people who want a different overall look than the one provided by vinyl.
Benefits of Fiber Cement Siding
- Wind Resistance
The wind resistance of fiber cement makes it a favorite in hurricane-prone areas, so you can rest assured that it’ll stand up to anything short of a tornado or high winds in Minnesota. Blustery winter days, spring and fall rainstorms, and other such events won’t bother it at all.
- Fire Resistance
Thanks to the cement content, fiber cement is also very fire-resistant. While it won’t make your entire house immune to flames, you’ll be glad to know it won’t contribute to a blaze, either.
- Factory Paint that Lasts for Decades
Even though the color of fiber cement comes from paint, you won’t have to worry about having to redo it for many years. The factory-applied finish lasts for decades.
- Easily Paintable
The easy paintability of Hardie Board makes it so that you aren’t limited in your later exterior design choices. If you decide that you don’t want to look at the same color for decades after all, just get out your roller or paintbrush and apply your new choice.
Things to Keep in Mind When Choosing Fiber Cement
Though fiber cement is perfect for many houses, there are a couple of factors to keep in mind before settling on it:
- Fiber cement is heavy compared to other siding options.
The weight of fiber cement is a physical limiting factor in some situations. Manufactured homes and other lightly built structures may need reinforcement before the underlying walls can hold it.
- This material can be more costly than some choices.
Price-wise, Hardie Board is one of those things that costs more up front but pays back over time. Users typically say it’s well worth the investment.
To discuss fiber cement siding or compare it to other siding options, contact our team at Perfect Exteriors. We’ll be glad to help you find the exterior finishing solution that’s perfect for you.