 | Cris Keeter has been involved with home remodeling and construction for more than 20 years in the Wichita area. In addition to having a residential and commercial contractor’s license he is one of the owners of All States Exteriors LLC, a full service home exterior replacement contractor, specializing in windows, siding, roofing, doors, gutter and gutter protection. They are preferred contractors for James Hardie siding products, Owens Corning and CertainTeed roofing products. You can contact Cris by email cris@allstatesExteriors.com , visit the web site at www.allstatesExteriors.com or come by the company showroom located at 776 N West St in Wichita. |
Home Improvement
2012-04-19 10:50:39
Siding choices
A: Cement fiber board siding was developed by James Hardie Industries over a century ago. They discovered the process of its construction while researching building materials that could endure the wear and tear associated with severe climates, and Kansas qualifies for such conditions. Cement fiber board siding is very strong, and is resistant to fires, insects and decay. Cement fiber siding is extremely moldable, meaning that it can appear in an assortment of styles. Fiber cement board is available in several patterns including a simulated wood grain pattern. Other styles such as smooth or stucco appearances can also be found. Unlike vinyl siding, cement fiber board siding will need to be painted. But, unlike wood siding, fiber cement board absorbs paint in an enduring way. Cement fiber siding that is coated with a good, protective paint will likely never peel or chip. While the appearance can be every bit as lovely as wood siding alternatives, you save yourself the worry of serious problems such as water damage. The exterior walls of most homes can be covered with cement fiber, and in a lot of cases the soffit can be trimmed with the same cement fiber board as well. Weight is a minor concern with fiber cement products: they weigh about 1½ times what comparably sized composite wood products do. Other concerns relate to cutting fiber cement: cutting produces a fine dust with microscopic silica fibers, so personal protective equipment (respirator and goggles) are necessary. In addition, special tools are needed for cutting.
A quick overview:
Pros:
• Considerably more fire-resistant than vinyl or wood siding
• Imprinted designs imitate wood-grain remarkably well, even from close-up
• Tougher, stronger than vinyl siding
• Can be cost-effective when compared to a full-scale refurbishment of wood clapboard
• Can be painted, thus giving homeowner more design choices
Cons:
• Cost. Fiber-cement is a little more expensive then vinyl siding
• Slower installation time than vinyl (though faster than refurbishing wood siding)
• Typically not a do-it-yourself job Most types of siding (and especially fiber-cement) should be installed by professionals.
