Fiber cement technology, despite its fairly recent popularity, has been around for quite some time. Better Homes and Gardens has this to say on the various types and properties of fiber-cement siding which many homeowners in big cities like St. Paul, Minnesota have come to appreciate:
As with wood and vinyl siding, fiber-cement siding is available in a variety of styles: shingles, clapboard, sheet form, and soffits, as well as lap siding, vertical and horizontal pieces, and stucco options. Fiber-cement siding comes in several thicknesses and densities as well as widths and lengths. It can be cut and customized to virtually any size or configuration, so individuality is one of its key selling points. “It really gives you the look of real wood,” says Phil Davis, a spokesperson for the National Association of the Remodeling Industry who works with Harris Exteriors and More in Streamwood, Illinois. “It’s taking the place of cedar for a lot of people.”
While fiber-cement siding comes in many different shapes and sizes, and can even appear like wooden cladding, there’s more to this siding material than just its good looks. Siding needs to be extremely durable in order to protect a home, and fortunately fiber-cement doesn’t disappoint when it comes to keeping damage from the elements at bay. Folks planning to install fiber-cement siding in St Paul homes certainly won’t be let down with the performance of this material.
Siding made of fiber-cement combines the best properties of both wood and cement, thus, giving it the look and feel of wooden cladding while maintaining cement’s toughness and resilience to fire, rot, and water damage. Additionally, fiber-cement can withstand severe climate conditions to provide optimum insulation (depending on the thickness), and is resistant to insect infestation to boot. It also helps that fiber-cement cladding is a low-maintenance material that requires only occasional cleaning with a garden hose.
Despite its vaunted durability, fiber-cement can still be damaged with sufficient force. Although a rare occurrence, homeowners should be mindful of any cracks that appear on the cladding. It’s possible to reduce cracks on your fiber-cement siding through regular upkeep, though it pays to be mindful of any signs of serious damage. Count on companies like Twin Cities Siding & Roofing for high-quality professional siding repair in St. Paul.
(Article Excerpt and Image from The Basics of Fiber-Cement Siding, Better Homes and Gardens)
