In an article for Houzz, architect Bud Dietrich writes about fiber cement siding and its benefits; and features photos of homes that make use of this product to demonstrate its versatility and beauty. The writer says:
Hardie board: Just about everyone who has considered re-siding their house or building an addition or a new home has heard of it. But what is Hardie board, or more properly, fiber cement board?
Fiber cement board in its current form was developed in the 1980s by the James Hardie corporation as a replacement for asbestos cement board. A combination of sand, cement and cellulose, it can be produced in panels, as lap siding and as trim pieces. Because it’s durable (many manufacturers warranty the product for 50 years and the finish for 15), low maintenance, available in many sizes and textures, and easily painted any color, fiber cement is an ideal siding choice.
Durability and adaptability are two of fiber cement siding’s most important benefits. The composition of a “Hardie board” makes it a very strong and long-lasting material, which is highly ideal for a place like Minneapolis, with its extreme hot and cold temperatures. In addition, quality fiber cement siding installation in Minneapolis homes presents builders and homeowners with a number of options in terms of style and design.
As shown in the photos that accompany the Houzz article, fiber cement boards come in various sizes, and can thus be used to fit various architectural styles. They can come as big, squared panels for a bold, contemporary look; or as traditional horizontal boards for a more rustic appeal. One can also combine various fiber cement board shapes for a totally original home façade.
The manner fiber cement boards are installed can also result in interesting exterior finishes. As Dietrich says:
The fiber cement panels can be butted to each other or can be installed with a reveal between each panel. The James Hardie company has developed a simple installation system when a reveal is desired.
Proper installation is, of course, very critical to achieve the kind of finish an architect or a homeowner has envisioned. As such, Minneapolis residents should leave the job only to a reputable Minneapolis siding contractor, like Twin Cities Siding and Roofing, that specializes in James Hardie fiber cement siding installation. Only preferred companies such as this can guarantee the kind of finish that will optimize the many aesthetic and functional benefits of this product.
(Article information and image from Seal the Deal With Fiber Cement Siding, Houzz)
