The right kind of siding offers many benefits, such as improved protection against the elements and lower maintenance requirements. But what makes fiber cement a good investment for your home?
What Is Fiber Cement Siding?
Fiber cement is a composite made of fine silica sand, wood fibers and cement. The silica sand adds mass and durability to fiber cement while wood fibers add flexibility. During manufacturing, these three ingredients are combined into a slurry, which is then pressed, cured and cut to size. Most manufacturers offer fiber cement with baked-on factory-applied finishes. Unfinished or factory-primed fiber cement that can be painted after installation is also available.
Reasons to Choose Fiber Cement Siding
Fiber cement siding looks similar to painted natural wood siding. However, it offers certain advantages in many aspects, both practical and aesthetic.
Durability – Years of research were poured into finding the right combination of materials that ultimately became fiber cement. The combination of silica and cement makes it essentially a form of concrete, but with added flexibility, thanks to its wood fiber content. It creates an impact-resistant barrier that protects your home against hailstones and airborne debris during a storm.
Low maintenance requirements – One of the greatest advantages of fiber cement siding is it doesn’t take much to keep it clean and looking good. Its factory-applied coatings do not require anything stronger than dish detergent and tap water to clean. Its more durable finish will require no repainting, yet will remain looking vibrant throughout its lifespan.
Long lifespan – With proper care and maintenance, fiber cement siding is expected to last 30 to 50 years – longer than a standard asphalt shingle roof. Combined with its low maintenance requirements, fiber cement has a lower lifetime cost and offers better value.
Weather resistance – Fiber cement does not warp or crack from prolonged exposure to moisture and changes in temperature. It also has natural resistance to moisture and impact damage, which can help protect your home against most kinds of weather conditions.
Twin Cities Siding and Roofing is your leading provider of siding repair and installation services. Give us a call at (651) 967-0873. You can also fill out our contact form to schedule an appointment. We serve customers in Minneapolis and the rest of the Twin Cities area.
