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Construction Monday – Fiber Cement Siding

Happy Construction Monday…..ever wonder what fiber cement siding really is and why Everett installs this on our homes? There are some really interesting facts about fiber cement siding and a long list of benefits to installing this over other materials. Everett Custom Homes uses Hardiplank siding on all of our homes, which is also a benchmark item in Earth Advantage Home Certification, contributing to our Gold level status. Fiber cement siding is comprised of sand, cement, and cellulose fibers to create a durable, long-lasting product, able to withstand all the elements.

Why Hardiplank vs. vinyl siding? Hardiplank siding is over five times thicker than vinyl, allowing for deeper grooves and a more authentic wood-grain effect. Vinyl melts easily in a fire (or even from the reflection of the sun off Low-E glass windows), whereas Hardiplank products are noncombustible. Vinyl may crack and warp from the elements, while fiber cement products are more durable and resist warping, sagging and melting.

Why Hardiplank vs. wood siding? Hardiplank siding is not only less expensive than wood, it won’t be eaten by animals or insects. It also resists water absorption better than wood, even where the manufacturer’s recommended protections are followed, helping protect against mold. If there’s a fire, Hardiplank siding is much better at withstanding damage, while wood goes up in flames. Wood may split, crack and deteriorate over time, while fiber cement siding resists weather damage and keeps its shape for a much longer time, which means less maintenance to worry about year after year.

Why Hardiplank vs. OSB? Hardiplank fiber cement is specifically formulated to better resist damage from the very predators—moisture, freezing temperature, humidity, pests and fire—that pose threats to wood-based products. Oriented Strand Board (OSB), also known as wood composite or engineered wood siding, consists of wood strands bonded together under heat and pressure with a resin. When used for exterior siding, it is susceptible to rotting from water damage. The bottom edges of OSB can expand and split over time where exposed to cyclic wet and freezing conditions.

In addition to all the benefits of fiber cement siding….

• It’s the #1 return on investment, compared to other mid-size remodeling projects.
• It costs less than wood, doesn’t attract pests, and resists water absorption to help protect against mold, swelling, and cracking.
• Hardiplank is the only siding company that engineers siding and trim products for specific climates, ensuring the best performance for each region.
• This siding uses a Baked-on ColorPlus technology that has greater resistance to fading, chipping, and cracking for less maintenance.
• Fiber cement siding can sometimes help reduce home insurance premiums because it is non-combustable and hail-damage resistant.
• All Hardie siding and trim products come with a 30-year, non-prorated warranty and is backed by the coveted Good Housekeeping Seal!