Everything to Know About Fiber Cement Siding Installation

Long-Lasting Fiber Cement Siding Starts with Expert Installation

Siding is one of the first things people notice about a home. But beyond adding curb appeal, siding also forms one of your home’s key layers of defense against the elements, along with your roofing system. Because of its key role in both aesthetics and functionality, choosing high-quality siding is essential—and this has led more and more homeowners to opt for fiber cement siding installation.

As the top home exterior contractors in Minneapolis, our team at Wright at Home Roofing & Exteriors has years of expertise in siding replacement and installation. While we work with a wide range of products, fiber cement stands alone in terms of quality, boasting superior looks, durability, and longevity. If you’re interested in fiber cement siding installation for your home, here’s what you should know about this product.

A two-story house with gray shingles, fiber cement siding installation, and stone accents Wright at Home Roofing & Exteriors Minneapolis, MN..

What Is Fiber Cement Siding?

Fiber cement is a highly durable material that was first used for siding back in the 1980’s. The precise composition of fiber cement siding can vary, but in general it is made from a mixture of sand, cement, and a form of cellulose fiber, most commonly wood pulp. You can see, then, where the name “fiber cement” came from!

To create siding from fiber cement, this mixture of materials (along with water) is put into molds with a wood-texture appearance before being dried and coated with a finishing material to create the final appearance.

Fiber Cement Siding Installation

There are a few elements that are important for homeowners to know when it comes to the installation process for fiber cement siding. Let’s take a look.

What Is the Installation Process?

The success and longevity of new fiber cement siding depends on the quality of the installation. Professional installers must have an established process to ensure quality and avoid potential issues along the way. In general, the process will look something like:

  1. Inspection and preparation, making sure the underlying boards are sound and free of rot or damage
  2. Weather barrier and starter strip installation
  3. Siding preparation, including any cutting and prep necessary to ensure a precise fit
  4. Siding installation
  5. Trimming, sealing, and final touches
  6. Final inspection and walkthrough to ensure quality

How Do You Attach Fiber Cement Siding?

Fiber cement siding will typically be attached using corrosion resistant nails typically made from stainless steel or galvanized steel. Nails may be driven by hand, but it is more common to use a nail gun.

Is Fiber Cement Siding Easy to Install?

Due to its unique composition, weight, and other factors, fiber cement siding is more difficult to install than other traditional materials. Further, cutting fiber cement siding requires specialized equipment to avoid chips and other imperfections.

Overall, due to the upfront expense and the potential for warranty coverage when working with a contractor certified by manufacturers like James Hardie, installing fiber cement siding yourself just isn’t worth it.

Why Choose Fiber Cement Siding?

Installing fiber cement siding typically carries a higher upfront cost compared to more common materials such as vinyl. Is that increased cost worth it overall? Here are some of the reasons why homeowners choose fiber cement for their siding replacement:

  • Durability – Fiber cement resists just about any type of damage you can name: impact damage, wind damage, storm damage, pest infestations, and rot.
  • Longevity – The lifespan of fiber cement siding exceeds that of every other siding material, even other high-performance materials like aluminum.
  • Appearance – Due to the way it’s manufactured, fiber cement siding is available in a nearly endless array of styles; further, it takes very well to paints and other coatings, and will typically retain its vibrant appearance for much longer than other siding materials.
  • Maintenance – Fiber cement carries low maintenance demands throughout its lifespan. Cleaning will help maintain the siding’s appearance, and painting can help to refresh the look of your home, but it often isn’t necessary.

Wright at Home Roofing & Exteriors: Fiber Cement Siding Installation Pros

Fiber cement siding is a wise choice for homeowners looking to add both aesthetic appeal and functionality to their home. Not only does this material provide reliable protection and insulative properties, but the overall appearance is tough to beat.

Because fiber cement siding is an investment, however, it’s crucial to work with a professional contractor who has demonstrated experience in fiber cement siding installation. At Wright at Home Roofing & Exteriors, our team is certified by James Hardie, the leading manufacturer of fiber cement siding products. We’re committed to delivering the best possible quality and ensuring your new siding will last a lifetime.

If you’re ready to rejuvenate your home, reach out to our team today for a consultation.

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