Fiber Cement Siding
Fiber cement siding is a durable, dimensionally stable exterior cladding material made from a mixture of cement, cellulose fibers, sand, and other additives. It combines the appearance of traditional siding materials with superior performance characteristics.
Composition
Exterior cladding material designed for weather protection and aesthetic appeal
Properties
Density
1.25-1.55 g/cm³
Heavier than vinyl but lighter than traditional masonry cladding materials.
Thickness
5/16" to 5/8" (8-16mm)
Available in various thicknesses depending on the application and desired appearance.
Fire Resistance
Class A (ASTM E84)
Non-combustible material that doesn't contribute to flame spread or generate smoke when exposed to fire.
Impact Resistance
High
Resistant to hail damage, impacts from debris, and everyday wear, though can crack under severe impact.
Moisture Resistance
Excellent
Highly resistant to moisture damage, rot, and swelling when properly installed and maintained.
Dimensional Stability
Very Good
Minimal expansion and contraction with temperature and humidity changes compared to wood and vinyl.
Applications
Residential Siding
Used as exterior cladding for single-family homes and multi-family residential buildings in various styles including lap siding, shingles, and vertical panels.
Commercial Exteriors
Applied as facade material for low to mid-rise commercial buildings, providing durability and design flexibility with relatively low maintenance requirements.
Soffit and Fascia
Installed as soffit panels under roof eaves and as fascia boards along roof edges, providing weather protection and ventilation.
Trim Applications
Used for corner boards, window trim, door casings, and other exterior trim elements to complement the primary siding material.
Rainscreen Systems
Incorporated into ventilated rainscreen wall assemblies that provide enhanced moisture management and thermal performance.
Interior Applications
Occasionally used for interior wall surfaces in high-traffic or moisture-prone areas requiring durability and fire resistance.
Advantages
- Exceptional durability with typical lifespan of 50+ years
- Low maintenance requirements compared to wood siding
- Non-combustible and highly fire resistant
- Resistant to termites, rot, and fungal decay
- Available in a wide range of styles, textures, and colors
- Can convincingly mimic wood, stucco, or masonry appearances
- Dimensionally stable with minimal expansion/contraction
- Good impact and weather resistance, including hurricane-prone regions
- Factory finishes available with 15-25 year warranties
Limitations
- Higher initial cost than vinyl and some wood siding options
- Heavier than vinyl and wood, requiring more labor for installation
- Requires special cutting tools and dust control measures during installation
- Can absorb moisture if not properly installed and finished
- More brittle than vinyl or wood, potentially cracking under severe impact
- Factory finishes eventually require repainting (typically 7-15 years)
- Installation requires careful attention to manufacturer specifications
- Silica dust during cutting poses health hazards requiring proper safety equipment
- Higher embodied energy than wood products
Sustainability Profile
Sustainable siding options include reclaimed wood, fiber cement (durable with low maintenance), and insulated siding that improves energy efficiency. Look for locally sourced materials to reduce transportation impact.