Though fiber cement siding might seem like the new kid on the construction block, the truth is that it has a much longer history. Fiber cement was first created at the turn of the century, when French manufacturers were making roofing plates and siding that could resist all things that had been the bane of wood siding: insects, mold, rot, and wind, and even fire.
As the appealing properties of this siding type caught on, the material was ordered for homes all over the world. Many older homes today still have the original cement that was installed 80 or 90 years ago. This longevity speaks to this siding's durability in a way that is even more convincing than the typical 50-year guarantee.
Why Is Siding Durability So Significant?
The secret of cement fiber's longevity lies in the basic ingredients that make up the finished product. Originally, siding products used asbestos as a key element. Once it was determined that asbestos could pose a serious health hazard, manufacturers starting used cellulose instead.
Today, cement fiber siding is a mixture of cellulose fibers, Portland cement, ground sand, certain additives and water. The blend of these materials forms a sturdy, attractive siding product that can stand up to a long guarantee. What more is that the cement product does not contract or warp like wood might, so paint added to fiber cement siding can last for decades with careful maintenance.
The Advantages of Fiber Cement Siding
While fiber cement siding is typically more expensive than vinyl siding, it is far less costly than natural wood siding alternatives. Fiber cement is available in a wide variety of colors and styles, such as horizontal, vertical, and shingle-style siding. The siding can be found with different patterns as well, such as wood grain or stucco, and is offered as a soffit material as well.
Fiber cement siding Lincoln Park NJ is typically more versatile than vinyl or wood alternatives, due to its durability. It is mar-resistant, and peeling, chipping, or cracking is not as common as it is with vinyl siding. The fiber cement clapboard is significantly thicker than vinyl claddings, which gives it more resistance to damage from high winds or objects.
Unlike vinyl and wood alternatives, fiber cement siding is flame-resistant. It is non-combustible and approved for fire-rated construction.
Fiber cement siding is naturally resistant to fungus, mildew, and termites, so there is no routine maintenance required in order to prevent these problems as with wood siding.
Although fiber cement siding is available in a wide array of colors, it can also be painted any color you choose, should you ever feel in the mood for change. Also, it will hold the paint color. This cannot be accomplished with vinyl siding, as the paint will peel and crack in a relatively short period of time.
The longevity of this siding comes down to the quality of the ingredients that make up the siding. Professional installation by siding contractors will help ensure you get your money's worth out of the siding you choose for your home.
